Dear Readers:
It's finally spring, after one of the worst winters in memory! Of course this time of year inspires people to behave irrationally, often concerning their homes. Take spring cleaning, for instance. Personally, I like to avoid this at all costs. There are, in fact, some things that seem like a really good idea, but which one should never do. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Never take off your cushion covers or slip covers and throw them in the washing machine (unless of course your daughter wants to use them in her Barbie house);
- Never refinish an inherited piece of furniture unless you are sure it’s not valuable;
- Never wash mini blinds in the tub;
- Never wash prefinished wood floors with water, (the cracks between the boards have not been sealed);
- Never spray clean fabric flowers; and
- Never deep clean good upholstery yourself -- get a professional;
On the other hand, now is the perfect time of year to:
- Straighten all of your cockeyed pictures;
- Rearrange the furniture;
- Roll up and store your heavy carpets;
- Purchase a cheerful new bed ensemble;
- Indulge in some potted spring flowers;
- Lighten up your window treatments;
- Wash your patio furniture and BBQ grill;
- Switch around those tired old accessories;
- Change your throw pillows;
- Consider summery slipcovers; and
- Purchase thirsty new towels, a wonderful shower curtain, and pretty new table linens.
It’s also a really good time to get outside and just forget about your house. Enjoy the warmer weather. M.A.K.
