Valuable information for buyers and sellers.
The brighter days of spring can really help make a home shine by allowing more light to come in and by providing homebuyers with a good view of the home’s outdoor areas. Whether your home is for sale or not, giving your windows a good cleaning – both inside and out – should be part of every homeowner’s annual spring cleaning agenda. While cleaning windows might not be the most exciting chore, it is an easy and low-cost way to enhance both the interior and exterior of your home – and one that might pay dividends in the long run if your home is for sale.
In addition to clean windows, a brighter, gleaming look can be achieved by taking time to clean your light bulbs and fixtures as well. It may go without saying, but before you get started with your cleaning, you should always turn off the electricity to the fixture. For bulbs themselves, all that is necessary is a quick wipe down using a dry cloth – such as a dryer sheet – to remove dust and grime. Ceiling fixtures, pendant lights and other glass covers can be removed and cleaned with cleaning spray and a microfiber cloth or in warm, soapy water.
If you have motion-sensor lights outside, spray some window cleaner on a soft rag and give them a quick wipe. Removing any dirt and/or grime may help prevent your sensors from lighting up too soon, which can lower your energy costs. Another good idea is to use a can of compressed air to clean out additional dirt that may be encased in the brackets and behind the bulbs of your garage lights and driveway lights.
Homeowners looking for an environmentally friendly alternative to using harsh chemicals for their window and light cleaning projects should consider using lemons. For smudge-free glass with a refreshing scent, try mixing lemon juice, rubbing alcohol and water in a spray bottle. Simply spray it on your windows and mirrors, and wipe away with a cloth.
If you have time, dusting weekly will keep the time spent on a deep spring cleaning to a minimum, and help you enjoy a bright, light home all year long.
