The Homeowner’s New Year’s Checklist
The end of the year is a time for resolution making and planning out a better, stronger new year. Whether we keep those resolutions or not, some things should definitely be on that list of must-dos, including tasks to be done around the house. Sure, every week we remember to make the bed, do the dishes, et cetera, but there are big things that go unnoticed because we don’t come across them every day. Below, we’ve compiled a list of things you should be doing once a year around the house.
New Year’s Checklist
Cleaning:
Mattress tidy-up: Use Apartment Therapy’s cleaning guide to find out how to do the job properly.
Carpets: Yes, you should be vacuuming them weekly, but with all the dust and allergen build up, it’s a good idea to get your carpets professionally cleaned once a year.
Wiping down: Don’t forget about those four walls you live in! Take time to clean walls and windows, and other parts of the home that may be in need of a good wipe down, like cabinets and blinds.
Inspecting:
Check the exterior: Walk around the house to look for cracks, make sure window screens are not broken, check the condition of your gutters, inspect your roof, and ensure your landscaping is orderly.
On the inside: Be sure that your fire alarm and carbon monoxide detector are working, look for any water damage, and ensure that your pipes and sewage outflow are up to par.
Insurance: Give your insurance provider a call to go over your homeowner’s insurance policy, making sure everything’s in order and giving yourself a reminder of what’s covered and what’s not.
Organizing:
Refrigerator: Discard any old condiments and any other food that’s hiding in the corner of your fridge and start fresh at your next grocery store trip.
Garage: Just knowing you’ve decluttered probably one of the most disorganized places in your home will be such a rewarding feeling to go into the new year with. Check out this link for inventive uses for the junk in your garage.