1. Cleaning windows
In our house, some windows need to be cleaned more often (thanks to pet noses and 5-year-old hand prints).
But in the summer, I am taking time to clean all the windows – inside and out. We installed windows that tilt-in for easy cleaning. And while I’m cleaning windows, I also wipe down everything around the window and between the window and screen.
I simply use window cloths and a bucket of water – easy peasy. I find the best time to do this is on a cloudy day. And the best part – clear views to the outside all summer.
2. Clean and touch up woodwork.
I don’t regularly wipe down the woodwork – unless I see something that sticks out.
This summer, I’m wiping down all the white woodwork and touching it up with paint. This is a project that I tend to dread. But it’s amazing how quickly white trim can begin to look ragged – with dings and scuffs.
I’m always amazed by how great a room looks with fresh painted trim.
Tip: Use the same color trim paint throughout the house to make touch-ups a breeze.
3. Treating stains on carpets and rugs.
Our rugs and carpets get used and abused all year long. So, this summer, I’m working my way through the house, treating stains that have built up.
I started downstairs with our backdoor rug – which gets the vast majority of the soot and grime.
After a thorough cleaning, I used After a thorough cleaning, I used Spot Shot®Instant Carpet Stain Remover. It was simply a matter of applying the stain remover, letting it set, and then wiping off with a clean white towel. After a bit, I cleaned it well with cold water.
The rug looks as good as new – and makes the perfect welcome coming into our home.
4. Oiling floors.
It’s time to give our floors an oil refresh – we are going to focus on the main walkways through the house, where the finish has seemed to wear down more than the rest of the main floor.
If you don’t have oiled floors, it may be a good time to give them a deep cleaning. Nothing better than spotless floors.
5. Paint touch ups and wall repair.
After a year, walls are sure to show their wear.
Now that most of our home has been mostly “put together,” I’m planning to clean up, repair and touch up the painted surfaces that need it. There’s one spot on the stairs that is driving me especially crazy.
Tip: Store paint in squeeze bottles for easy use and cleanup.
Do you have a list of maintenance or deep cleaning projects to work on this summer?
Make sure to keep some of those items at the top of your list – they can keep your home looking in tip-top shape all year.
What’s on your maintenance to-do list this summer?
Like it? Put a pin on it.
Did you like this post?
We'd love to send you more inspiration and encouragement for your home. When you sign up below, we'll send you our free guide to save thousands on your next home project. Because your home shouldn't own you.
daisy says
We have those windows too on our new house, and I have to say, I’m actually looking forward to cleaning them! Crazy, right?
We also have wood floors in the entire house, so I have to research how best to clean them. Never had wood floors before, so I’m hoping it’ll be easy to maintain.
Love the tip about keeping the touch-up paint in squeeze bottles. So smart.
We are just getting settled, so there is a lot to do. We are installing closet systems, hanging ceiling fans, picking out furniture and organizing spaces to make maximum use of our smaller-sized home. It’s all a learning process.
Thank you for your constant inspiration!
What a blessing those nose and hand prints are…