Dear Readers:
I am cautiously optimistic that spring is around the corner; I even heard a rumor of the appearance of crocuses. 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:
o 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;
- Never deep clean good upholstery yourself -- get a professional;
- Never scrub laminate countertops will anything stronger than a nylon scrub sponge; and
- Never repaint walls and woodwork when all they need is a good cleaning.
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.
