Top 15 Moving Tips to Save Time, Stress, and Boxes
31 July 20254 Min read
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Smarter Moves, Happier Settling In
Whether you’re heading to your first apartment, upsizing with family, or making a cross-town move, the process can feel overwhelming. But with the right prep, packing, and mindset, moving doesn’t have to be so stressful.
We’ve pulled together our top 15 moving tips to keep your move efficient, organized, and yes, even a little enjoyable.
1. Declutter Before You Pack
Take this opportunity to lighten your load. Donate, recycle, or toss anything you haven’t used in the past year. The fewer items you move, the faster and cheaper the process becomes.
2. Stock Up on the Right Supplies
Boxes are only the beginning. You’ll also want heavy-duty tape, labels, markers, and packing paper. Towels work too. Here are a few budget-friendly essentials under $25[1] that make packing easier, like laundry baskets, caddies, and tool kits.
3. Color Code by Room
Use colored tape, markers, or labels for each room. Blue for the kitchen, green for the bedroom, and so on. It makes unloading and unpacking a breeze, especially if friends or movers are helping.
4. Pack a First Night Bag
Include essentials like toiletries, medication, chargers, snacks, and one change of clothes. Treat it like an overnight trip. You’ll thank yourself after a long day of hauling boxes.
5. Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy
From wiping down dusty shelves to scrubbing sinks, you’ll need them on both ends of the move. Things like Mrs. Meyer’s Dish Soap or Scrub Daddy sponges are the best for move-in day messes.
6. Label What Matters Most
Clearly mark boxes with high-priority items like “Open First” or “Fragile Kitchen.” Use arrows to show which side is up to avoid accidents during transit.
7. Don’t Empty Drawers, Wrap Them
Keep items inside dressers or storage bins if possible. Secure with stretch wrap so nothing falls out and move everything in one piece.
8. Take Photos of Electronics Before Unplugging
Snap pics of your TV, Wi-Fi router, or gaming setup before disconnecting. When it’s time to reconnect, you’ll have a visual wiring guide.
9. Use What You Already Own
Suitcases, laundry baskets, tote bags, and storage bins are perfect for packing. Why buy more boxes when you can make what you have work?
10. Protect Floors and Corners
Use rugs, old towels, or leftover cardboard to protect high-traffic areas in both your old and new home. You’ll avoid scuffs and potential security deposit deductions.
11. Create a “Do Not Pack” Zone
Set aside a space or bin for items you’ll need day of. Think wallet, lease papers, cleaning supplies, and keys. That way, they won’t accidentally get taped into a box.
12. Label Cords and Remotes
It’s easy to lose track of which cord goes with what. Use bread tags, washi tape, or masking tape to label each plug.
13. Take Advantage of Vertical Space
Maximize your box space by stacking lighter items on top of heavier ones. Store things like rolled-up towels or pillows upright to fill space efficiently.
14. Plan for Pets and Kids Ahead of Time
If possible, arrange a sitter or create a safe zone away from the chaos. Moving is overwhelming. Give your furry friends and little ones a calm corner.
15. Schedule Utility Transfers Early
Internet, electricity, and water should all be scheduled in advance. Nothing puts a damper on move-in day like a dark, disconnected apartment.
Moving can feel like a lot, but with smart prep and the right tools, it’s also a fresh start.
Explore affordable moving day helpers, laundry must-haves, and household essentials all in one spot. Because settling into your new space should feel like home from day one.
How Much Is Renters Insurance For An Apartment And Is It Really Worth It?
26 July 20254 Min read
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Why Renters Insurance Matters
While it may seem like an optional extra, renters insurance can be quite the hero when the unexpected happens. In fact, in most cases, proof of renters insurance is required by landlords as part of the lease agreement. But how do you know how much coverage you really need and which provider offers the best value and features for your situation? In this blog, we’ll break down how much renters insurance for an apartment typically costs, what it includes, and why it’s a smart choice for almost every renter.
How Much Is Renters Insurance For An Apartment
The average renter in the U.S. pays between $15 and $20 per month for a standard renters insurance policy. But did you know some providers offer plans that start as low as $5 a month (depending on your location and coverage level)?
Of course, your specific rate will depend on a few key factors:
Location — Urban areas or regions prone to extreme weather may increase rates.
Coverage amount — The more belongings you want covered, the higher the premium.
Deductible — A lower deductible usually means a higher monthly cost.
Additional coverage options — Some policies include protection for items like electronics, jewelry, or identity theft for an added cost.
With flexible pricing and valuable coverage, renters insurance is a smart investment for peace of mind. You can find competitive rates with Lemonade.
Renters Insurance Available Through CSC Marketplace
At CSC Marketplace, we work with trusted providers to bring renters affordable, hassle-free insurance options designed with your needs in mind.
Lemonade
Renters insurance that keeps your stuff safe. Starting at $5 per month, Lemonade offers one of the most budget-friendly policies available today. With fast online quotes, easy sign-up, and a mobile app that makes filing claims simple, Lemonade is ideal for tech-savvy renters who want reliable protection with minimal effort.
CSC Home Assist (from Latchel)
Upgrade your life and finances with CSC Home Assist from Latchel. For just $9.99/mo (that’s 50% off), this convenient service helps renters save an average of $600 annually by covering common costs like lockouts, key replacements, minor damages, and landlord fees. It also includes 24/7 access to a home maintenance hotline, up to $2,700 in reimbursement for eligible expenses, and a dedicated claims team to make the process fast and hassle-free. This is an excellent add-on for renters who want greater protection, on-call support, and fewer financial surprises, without added complexity.
Is Renters Insurance Really Worth It
Consider this: replacing a stolen laptop, damaged furniture, or ruined clothing could cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. A standard renters insurance policy covers those items for just a few dollars each month.
Most also offer liability protection in case someone gets injured in your home and decides to take legal action. Some policies even help cover temporary housing if your apartment becomes unlivable after a fire or other covered event.
And with more landlords requiring proof of insurance as part of lease agreements, having a policy in place is quickly becoming the norm.
In short, renters insurance is a low-cost way to avoid high-cost problems.
What To Look For In A Good Renters Insurance Policy
When choosing a plan, make sure it includes:
Personal property coverage — Covers your belongings against fire, theft, and more
Liability protection — Protects you if someone is injured on your property
Additional living expenses — Helps with hotel costs or temporary housing if needed
All of the options offered through CSC Marketplace are carefully selected to meet these needs and deliver clear value with no hidden fees.
Final Thoughts
Renters insurance is one of the smartest, most affordable ways to protect your personal property and your peace of mind. With prices starting around $5/mo, it’s an easy decision that could save you thousands in the long run.
CSC Marketplace partners with providers like Lemonade and Latchel to bring you renters insurance plans that are simple, affordable, and tailored for modern renters. Explore your options today and find the plan that fits your budget and your life.
Insurance Deals
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Lemonade Renters Insurance
Renter's insurance that keeps your stuff safe. Starting from $5.
Sorting laundry properly helps prevent color bleeding, fabric damage, and that dreaded sock mismatch.
1. Sort by Color, Fabric Type, and Soil Level
Keep whites, lights, and darks separate. For best results, separate heavily soiled items (like workout clothes or muddy socks) from lightly soiled ones to avoid spreading grime. Also split by fabric weight — towels don’t belong with tees.
2. Check Care Labels
Tide recommends always reviewing tags to identify special instructions like cold wash, gently cycle, or tumble dry low. Following these helps maintain the quality of each garment.
3. Choose the Right Settings
Hot for whites, cold for darks, and gentle cycles for delicates. Using a rental washer from Appliance Warehouse? Their machines are designed for easy setting selection.
Lease a washer & dryer with service included
Full installation and maintenance with no hidden fees! First month only $19.95 with promo code MARKETPLACE1995.
Smarter And More Affordable: Why Lemonade Car Insurance Might Be Right For You
23 July 20252 Min read
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Finding the right car insurance can feel like a chore—but it doesn’t have to be. That’s where Lemonade Car Insurance steps in, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional providers. Now available through CSC Marketplace, Lemonade Car is redefining the way we insure our vehicles—with tech-driven convenience, fair pricing, and a commitment to sustainability.
Insurance Built For The Way You Drive
Lemonade Car isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s designed to reward safe driving and lower mileage, giving you control over what you pay. Whether you’re a frequent commuter or only drive occasionally, Lemonade uses real driving data to tailor your policy to your lifestyle.
Offers available in select states:
Fixed Pricing: Ideal for those who like predictability and drive less—same cost every month, plus free roadside assistance (OH, IL, CO, TN, IN, TX).
Pay-Per-Mile: Perfect for low-mileage drivers (under 10,000 miles/year) who prefer paying only for what they use (AZ, OR, WA).
A Seamless Mobile Experience
Forget the paperwork. Lemonade’s easy-to-use app offers:
Instant quotes and digital ID cards
One-click claim filing with AI-powered processing
Real-time trip tracking and driving behavior insights
In-app crash detection and emergency services
It’s car insurance that fits in your pocket—and fits your lifestyle.
Discounts That Make a Difference
Who doesn’t love savings? Depending on your state, you may qualify for discounts based on:
Safe driving habits
Low mileage
Bundling with other Lemonade policies (like pet or renters)
Clean driving records
Loyalty and more
The results? High-quality coverage at a lower cost.
Where You Can Get It
Lemonade Car is currently available in Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington—with more states coming soon.
Ready to Drive Smarter And Save More?
CSC customers can explore Lemonade Car Insurance and see if it’s the right fit for them through CSC Marketplace. Learn more.
How to Conserve Water and Energy While Doing Laundry
17 July 20252 Min read
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Small changes in your laundry routine can save water, cut electricity use, and lower your utility bills — all without sacrificing clean clothes.
1. Wash Full Loads
Washing half loads wastes water and energy. Wait until you have a full load to make the most of each cycle.
2. Use Cold Water
Heaing water accounts for the bulk of energy used in laundry. Cold water cleans just find for most loads — and is gentler on clothes.
3. Air-Dry When You Can
Air-drying saves electricity and extends the life of your clothes. Even doing this once a week makes a difference.
4. Upgrade Your Equipment (If Allowed)
Older machines use more water and power. If your building permits it, Appliance Warehouse offers energy-efficient washer and dryers for rent — no major upfront costs required.
5. Shop Smarter for Laundry Supplies
Eco-friendly detergents and dryer balls can boost efficiency. On a budget? Perpay lets you pay over time without interest or fees.
Bonus Tip: Cover the Unexpected Accidents like water overflow can impact your least — but Latchel (CSC Home Assist) helps protect youw ith up to $2,700 in damage coverage for renters (CSC customers get 50% off for life).
Laundry may be routine, but it’s also a place where your habits — and your choices — can make a real impact.
New Apartment Checklist: Avoid These Day-One Mistakes
14 July 20254 Min read
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Let’s Talk About Move-In Regrets
Moving day is rarely perfect, but some mishaps are totally avoidable. Whether it’s digging through boxes for a shower curtain or realizing there’s no lightbulb in the ceiling, the smallest things can derail your first 24 hours.
This isn’t just another packing list. It’s a new apartment checklist built from real renter experiences—focused on what people actually wish they’d had ready from the start.
Along the way, you’ll find simple product solutions and deals that make move-in easier, all available through CSC Marketplace.
1. Forgetting Lighting for Your First Night
Don’t forget to find out who the utility provider is for your property, and set up your electric before move-in day.
For extra lighting, consider: Lamps, power strips, extension cords
Start with power and light so you’re not unpacking in the dark. Best Buy has affordable lighting, surge protectors, and smart home upgrades so you can feel settled even before the boxes are unpacked.
2. Assuming Takeout Will Cover Everything
You still need dishes, trash bags, and a clean surface to eat on.
Ready-to-heat meals from Factor make the first few nights easier with no grocery run or dirty dishes needed. It’s a time-saver that keeps your counters clean while your kitchen is still coming together.
3. Not Prepping a Bathroom Go-Bag
You’ll need these items before you even start unpacking.
What to have: Toilet paper, towel, shower curtain, soap
Trust us, you won’t want to dig for your toothbrush. A dedicated “open first” bathroom box with first-day essentials like soap, hand towels, and a shower curtain makes a big difference when you’re trying to wind down after the move.
If cleaning isn’t on your priority list, you can book a pro in advance through services like Thumbtack. Whether you need a quick wipe-down or a full deep clean, it’s one less thing to worry about on move-in day.
5. Waiting to Get Accustomed to Your Laundry Setup
You’ll need clean clothes sooner than you think.
What to have: Laundry detergent, laundry basket, washer and dryer plan
If your property provides a laundry room, be sure to check it out and see how it works. If not or you prefer your own in-home washer/dryer, you can lease a washer and dryer from Appliance Warehouse. With CSC Marketplace enjoy your first month for only $19.95 with promo code MARKETPLACE1995. It’s a hassle-free setup with no surprise costs.
6. Unpacking Without Safety Basics
You may not realize what’s missing until it’s too late.
What to have: Light bulbs, smoke detector batteries, toolkit
Best Buy offers a range of essential setup items from basic toolkits and extension cords to light bulbs and home safety devices so you don’t have to make a late-night run when something doesn’t work.
7. Leaving Out Personal Comforts
A small touch can make a big difference.
What to have: Favorite blanket, candle, framed photo
A cozy throw, scented candle, or piece of familiar decor from Marshalls can go a long way in making your space feel like home even if the rest of the apartment is still in boxes. Comfort doesn’t have to wait or cost much when you plan ahead.
Final Thoughts
This new apartment checklist isn’t about perfection. It’s about preparation. By covering the basics and avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll make your space feel like home from day one.
CSC Marketplace takes the guesswork out of move-in day. From trusted deals to helpful services, we help renters stretch their budgets, skip last-minute scrambles, and settle in with confidence.
Summer’s all about movement. Whether that means relocating to a new apartment, heading out for a weekend escape, or just staying flexible during long, sun-filled days, renters are constantly on the move.
That’s where CSC Marketplace comes in. It’s your go-to place for renter-friendly summer deals that deliver convenience, affordability, and simplicity. Whether you’re packing, road-tripping, or streaming from a short-term rental, these 10 deals are designed to keep up with your lifestyle.
1. Stay Covered While You Travel
For road trips, long-distance moves, or everyday errands, Better World Club offers peace of mind with roadside assistance that’s both reliable and eco-friendly. Additionally, they’re the only company in the U.S. to offer nationwide roadside assistance for bicycles. With a 15% discount on annual memberships using code CSC15, renters can also enjoy a range of other membership benefits. It’s a smart, budget-conscious move for renters spending more time on the road than at home this summer.
2. Feel Supported Wherever You Are
When you need an extra hand—fast—Thumbtack connects you with trusted local pros. Whether it’s furniture assembly, mounting an AC unit, or packing for a move, you can find someone nearby and ready to help. With CSC Marketplace, you can get a rebate on any pro service, from home cleaners and movers to pet sitters and personal trainers. It’s the ultimate on-demand solution for renters in need.
3. Bring the Fun With You
Hosting a small get-together in the backyard? Heading to the park with friends? Academy Sports + Outdoors offers a wide variety of outdoor games that are perfect for spontaneous summer fun. From ladder toss to cornhole, it’s easy to find portable games that amp up the excitement wherever your summer takes you.
4. Stream Your Favorites on the Move
When you’re between leases or waiting for home internet to be installed, a solid streaming service is a lifesaver. Fubo TV lets you enjoy live sports, shows, and movies wherever you are. Don’t miss out on exclusive deals for Fubo through CSC Marketplace because summer downtime deserves great content.
5. Packable Swimwear for Every Pool or Beach Stop
Swimwear that travels well is a must for renters on the go. Through CSC Marketplace, you can discover some amazing deals for comfortable and flattering suits from Bare Necessities that fit perfectly into any weekender bag. For men’s swimwear, check out Amazon’s swim collection or options from Academy Sports + Outdoors, where you can find durable, packable trunks ideal for travel. Whether it’s a beach weekend or a rooftop pool moment, you’ll find stylish essentials ready for your next splash.
6. Summer Escape
Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or just upgrading your WFH view, CSC Marketplace can help. Instead of locking into one location, consider shopping Amazon’s highly rated summer travel essentials, from portable hammocks and blackout curtains to noise machines and cooling fans. With a few curated products, you can turn any short-term stay into a relaxing, renter-friendly retreat.
7. Skip the Cooking, Not the Meal
Not every temporary space comes with a fully stocked kitchen. Get up to $130 off and free shipping on your first box with Factor’s fresh, ready-to-eat meals that require zero prep. Whether you’re between kitchens or too busy to cook, Factor makes it easy to eat well without lifting a finger—just heat, eat, and get back to your day.
8. Make Every Space Feel Like Home
A candle. A soft throw. A familiar scent. Even temporary spaces can feel like home with just a few cozy touches. Marshalls offers an ever-changing collection of affordable home accents with deals available through CSC Marketplace. It is an easy way to personalize your place and bring warmth wherever you land.
9. Get Essentials Delivered—Fast
For those unexpected summer moments—a broken fan, a missing power strip, or an urgent storage fix—Amazon makes it easy with fast shipping on renter essentials. With CSC-curated product picks, you’ll be able to keep your setup running smoothly, even when you’re in between spaces.
10. Toast to a Move Well Done
Moving or settling into a new place deserves a little celebration. Total Wine and More helps you stock up on wine, spirits, and cocktail favorites with CSC Marketplace offers that are perfect for low-key toasts or rooftop happy hours. It’s the perfect way to mark a new chapter.
Final Thoughts
Renters on the go don’t have time for complicated purchases or surprise expenses. CSC Marketplace makes life simpler with curated summer deals that meet you wherever you are. Every product, service, and partner is handpicked to help you save money, avoid stress, and make the most of your summer.
Whether you’re on the road, in between apartments, or just living life flexibly, CSC Marketplace is here to help you.
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$30 off your first 3-hour home cleaning – when you sign up for a plan
Using a shared laundry room? A little courtesy goes a long way. These quick tips help you keep the peace — and your clothes clean.
Be Prompt
Don’t leave your laundry sitting in the machine. When using one of our CSC apps (CSC GO/CSC Pay), you’ll be alerted when your laundry cycle is complete, and can add dryer time remotely if you need more time.
Clean Up After Yourself
Wipe down machines, remove lint, and toss dryer sheets. It’s simple, respectful, and ensures a better experience for everyone.
Don’t Move Others’ Laundry
Even if a washer’s been idle for a while, wait it out if you can.
Drop Laundry Pods Into the Drum — Not the Detergent Drawer
Laundry pods are designed to go straight into the washer drum with your clothes. Placing them in the detergent drawer can lead to clogs, since the pod’s wrapper may not fully dissolve — and that can create problems for the next person using the machine.
Don’t Assume a Broken Machine Has Been Reported
Putting an “out of order” sign on a machine is great, but don’t stop there. CSC can’t fix what we don’t know about! If you come across a machine that’s not working, take a moment to submit a quick service request in your laundry app. It’s fast, easy, and ensures everyone gets access to properly functioning machines.
Laundry day doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little awareness — and a few smart tools — everyone can have a better wash-day experience.
Longer, sunnier days trigger something deep inside us: a sudden drive to clear out the dust and cobwebs left over from winter. From the most reluctant cleaner to the most enthusiastic, we can all agree on one thing: waking up to a spotless house is an amazing feeling. But spring cleaning is also a big job.
Your spring cleaning checklist can feel overwhelming, especially if you aren’t naturally tidy or organized. That’s why we put together these pro tips. Use these expert tips to make your spring cleaning routine as easy, effective and realistic as possible.
1. Create a spring cleaning checklist.
When it comes to tackling your spring cleaning tasks, having a checklist can help keep you organized and ensure that no task is overlooked. Here are some tips to help you create an effective spring cleaning checklist:
Organize cleaning tasks by room: Start by dividing your home into different areas or rooms. This will make it easier to focus on one area at a time and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed. For each room, list down the specific cleaning tasks that need to be done, such as dusting, vacuuming, or mopping.
Include deep cleaning and decluttering tasks: Spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to go beyond your regular cleaning routine. Consider adding deep cleaning tasks like washing windows, cleaning carpets, and scrubbing grout. Additionally, don’t forget to include decluttering tasks, such as organizing closets, donating unused items, or purging expired products.
Set realistic goals and timelines: It’s important to set realistic goals for your spring cleaning. Break down your tasks into manageable chunks and assign a timeline to each task. This will help you stay focused and motivated. Be sure to prioritize tasks based on their importance and allocate enough time for each one.
2. Make a spring cleaning calendar.
In addition to a spring cleaning checklist, you may want to also consider making a spring cleaning calendar with specific tasks to complete each day. It can help you avoid procrastinating.
“Procrastination will only lead to stress and feeling overwhelmed, so my advice is to always try to schedule a specific time every day to tackle a small area that you know you can complete given your energy and availability,” says Beth Blacker, founder of It’s Just Stuff, a home organizing and move management service.
3. Don’t go at it alone.
If you want to tackle a whole house in one day, you might need some backup. Recruiting friends or family can help make fun of a big job. Sweeten the deal by offering to buy drinks or dinner afterward.
4. Stock up on cleaning supplies ahead of time.
For smooth sailing on cleaning day, make sure your inventory of cleaning products is up-to-date before you start. Running out of soap or glass cleaner at the halfway point will slow your momentum.
5. Check your equipment ahead of time, too.
From the right microfiber cloths for wiping surfaces to an electrostatic duster or replacement vacuum bag, being equipped makes the job easier. Check your equipment ahead of time, and make sure everything is working correctly a few weeks before you start spring cleaning.
6. Start with decluttering.
“Get rid of unwanted and unused items first and foremost,” said Mandy and Andy Long, CEO and CFO of Cleaning with a Meaning in Asheboro, North Carolina. “Then, tackle your organizing.”
You can donate your unwanted items to a charity, sell them or hire a junk removal service to haul them away.
7. Don’t bounce around from room to room.
“Start in one area and stay focused until that area is clean and then move to the next room,” said the Longs. “Bouncing around from room to room will get you overwhelmed, and it will be hard to finish your project.”
8. Take precautions with harsh chemicals.
“If using harsh chemicals, make sure you wear breathing protection for your health’s sake,” said the Longs. “Also, wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from chemical absorption.”
9. Open your windows.
“Open some windows while you are cleaning to help with ventilation, and let some light in while you clean,” said the Longs. “This will brighten your home and your mood.”
10. Turn on music, a podcast, or the TV.
Cleaning, fun? Sure, it can be. Create a perfect playlist, put on a ridiculous outfit and turn up the volume.
“Music is a great way to motivate yourself and keep moving forward,” says Christina Knowles, Professional Organizer & Certified Senior Move Manager at Make Space Now. “But, if you find yourself getting distracted and changing the songs up more often than you’re getting the cleaning done, it’s time to switch it up. Try a podcast or an audiobook. You’ll stay on track longer without disruption.”
11. Clean storage bins, organizers, and jars.
“If you use organizing bins to store your products, now is a great time to take those items out and clean the organizing bins themselves with a damp cloth,” said Christina Knowles of Make Space Now. “The organizing bins in the kitchen (especially the lazy Susan) gather oil and herbs on the surface. While you’re cleaning the inside surface, also clean the jars themselves.”
12. Always clean from top to bottom.
“Make sure to clean those hard-to-reach places like ceiling fans and overhead light fixtures,” said Jomo Farrier of Get Clean Clean in Brooklyn, New York. “This will prevent dust and other allergens from clogging up the air.” Dusting and wiping light fixtures can actually brighten up some spaces, too.
You’ll regret starting with the floors when you dust shelves, window blinds and ceiling fans later. Any cleaning that stirs up dust should happen before you mop and vacuum floors.
13. Use the right cleaning products on your floors.
You can cause some serious damage to your floors if you don’t clean them properly and use the wrong products. For example:
Don’t use an all-purpose cleaner, oil soap or too much water on wood floors.
Never scrub your vinyl floors with scrub pads or scrub brushes.
Avoid using steam, steel wool or scouring powder on laminate floors.
You can use vinegar on tile floors — but not directly on the grout or on tile floors made out of marble, limestone or concrete.
A true spring clean generally means clearing off every shelf, corner and that space in between your appliances so that you can dust, wipe and reorganize. A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment is especially handy for getting into corners.
15. Avoid climbing up ladders when dusting.
“Use extension dusters for high-reach areas instead of trying to use ladders,” said the Longs of Cleaning with a Meaning. “This is the safer way to dust.”
16. Wipe down the walls.
“Don’t forget to clean your walls,” said Jomo Farrier of Get Clean Clean. “A nice deep clean to your walls has the power to rejuvenate any room.”
Wipe down your wainscotting, paneling, baseboard and light switches. Don’t forget to wipe down wall art, mirror and picture frames, too.
17. Wet-wipe your blinds.
“Windows and blinds are a must to clean in the spring,” said Erica Benson, general manager of Candice Cleaners LLC, which has locations in several U.S. cities, including San Diego, Miami, Atlanta, Houston, Chicago, Arlington and Charlotte. “Unfortunately, it can be a messy job with a conventional duster. Our tip is to wet-wipe all the blinds in order to keep the excess dust down. This tip should make cleaning the blinds a quicker, more efficient task. No more re-dusting after dusting!”
18. Don’t wash your windows when it’s too hot out.
Even if it means deviating from your overall plan, wait until the sun isn’t shining on windows to clean them. Wiping down sun-warmed windows can leave streaks, wasting your hard work. Save yourself the trouble and clean windows properly when it’s not too hot or sunny outside.
19. Get a head start on appliances.
Freezers need to be defrosted, washing machines need to be run on a hot, disinfecting cycle, and some appliance filters need to be soaked or run through the dishwasher. Start these jobs early and work on other tasks while they process.
20. Use the right products to clean your oven.
“The springtime is ideal to deep clean your oven,” said Erica Benson of Candice Cleaners. “Experience has led us to the products that work the best. Easy-Off Oven cleaner in the spray can has proven to work the best. As good as this product is, there are still ovens that are so bad that the product alone will not clean them completely. Use steel wool for the stubborn, stuck-on spots.”
21. Use denture tablets to clean coffee reservoirs (and more).
Yep, you read that right. Coffee makers, toasters and kettles all need a deep clean, too. While a white vinegar solution will descale a kettle, coffee maker reservoirs benefit from dissolving a couple of denture tablets. Just run it for a cycle or two when descaling to remove any traces.
“Use a pumice stone to remove the hard spots on your toilet bowl,” said the Longs of Cleaning with a Meaning. “Spray some hydrogen peroxide base cleaner on the spots, and let sit for about 5 minutes. Then, get to work scrubbing off the grime. They have some great stones with handles on them on Amazon.”
23. Always soak before you scrub.
“Cleaning is tough work,” said the Longs. “Pre-soak [items with] tough dirt and grime before trying to scrub it off. This will save your back when scrubbing time comes.” Soak dishes, flower pots, candle holders, vases, toothbrush holders and other items with tough-to-remove grime.
24. Spritz your clothes with vodka before washing them.
This is another unusual spring cleaning tip, but hear us out. Clothes that have sat in drawers or closets for months can get a little musty. That’s why some people will spritz their funky-smelling clothes with inexpensive vodka in a spray bottle, and then wash them as usual. Learn more about this cleaning hack here.
25. Deodorize shoes with baking soda and tea bags.
Shoes can also get a little less-than-fresh over the winter. Put a few teaspoons of baking soda into gym shoes and other olfactory offenders, and let it sit overnight before shaking it out. You can also try putting two to three tea bags in your shoes, and allow them to sit for 24 hours.
26. Flush out drains with vinegar and lemon.
Drains and garbage disposals can quickly get funky. They collect hair, muck and goo. To keep drains clear, pour a cup of white vinegar into them and let them sit for an hour or so before flushing them out with cold water. Drop a used half-lemon into the disposal and run it to leave the kitchen smelling delightfully fresh.
27. Freshen up your mattress with baking soda.
Mattresses also collect skin cells and sweat, making them a dust mite haven. Strip off the bedding and vacuum the top and sides with the upholstery attachment. If you detect any odor or staining, sprinkle the surface with baking soda and leave it for at least 30 minutes before vacuuming.
28. Dust mite-proof your pillows.
All pillows that come into contact with your body are potential dust mite breeding grounds. Tossing pillows into a tumble dryer at the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes can help. Large pillows may require a trip to the laundromat to use their larger dryers. It’s a hassle but worth it.
29. Re-organize as you go.
As you tidy, scrub, vacuum and wipe, do some re-organizing as well. From small tweaks to completely rearranging the furniture, you might be shocked at what a little reconfiguring can do.
30. Temporarily store items in the garage.
Using the garage as a staging ground for stuff is helpful for creating momentum with three piles: keep, donate and throw away. Random items that surface during your spring cleaning routine can be placed in these piles.
31. Take the time to redecorate a bit.
“Spring cleaning is the perfect time to redecorate your rooms,” said Jomo Farrier of Get Clean Clean. “Rearranging furniture doesn’t only give you a better chance to clean — it lets you see your room with fresh eyes.”
Consider adding a few spring touches to your entryway, living room and kitchen counters or tables.
32. Double-check that you didn’t overlook these areas.
Before you call it a wrap on your spring cleaning, make sure you didn’t forget to clean these commonly-missed areas and items:
Furniture and upholstery (couch and pillow covers, drapes, rugs, etc.)
All of your kitchen appliances (fridge, freezer, microwave, dishwasher, etc.)
Your laundry room, including your washer and dryer
Tops of cabinets, cupboards and bookcases
Underneath and in between your appliances and furniture
Items you commonly touch (stair banisters, door handles, light switches, remote controls and keyboards)
33. Know when to hire help.
There are some tasks you might want to cover yourself, but others you can easily hire out. Knowing your limits is important. There are countless reasons for hiring a professional house cleaner. No one can do everything all the time. If you can’t seem to find the time to do a proper spring cleaning, choosing to divide and conquer is perfectly acceptable.
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