It's time to dig into spring cleaning. It is time to open the windows, shake up some dust, and freshen up the house. This year, try including the kids in this annual ritual.
Click here to print a checklist of kid-friendly cleaning tasks for spring.
While I know my kids are perfectly capable of helping with deep cleaning, I am uncomfortable letting them work with harsh chemicals. Below are two recipes for all-purpose cleaners made from everyday household items:
While I know my kids are perfectly capable of helping with deep cleaning, I am uncomfortable letting them work with harsh chemicals. Below are two recipes for all-purpose cleaners made from everyday household items:
All-Purpose Cleaner and Deodorizer
• 4 tablespoons baking soda
• 1 quart warm water
Great for: Bathroom & kitchen counters, sinks, and appliances.
How to use: Pour solution on a clean sponge and wipe.
Glass Cleaner
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup white or cider vinegar
• 1 to 2 drops of orange essential oil or some lemon juice to give the solution a nice smell (optional)
Great for: Mirrors, windows, and faucets
How to use: Combine ingredients and store in a small spray bottle. To get smudge-free glass, show your kids how to rub vertically on one side of the cloth and horizontally on the other.
BONUS TIP: If you want to create the solution directly in your spray bottle, simply combine 1 part white vinegar with 4 parts water.
Click here to print copies of the spring cleaning free printable checklist for your kids:
Most of the year I roll with this celebrated motto:
Ignore the mess, the children are making memories.
But once and a while we’ve all got to get down and deep clean!
P.S. How cute is that Let’s Play House! Dust! Sweep! Mop! above?
SAFETY TIP
Never combine chlorine bleach or products containing bleach with ammonia-based cleaners. The fumes created are extremely dangerous. Before doing any mixing, read the product labels first. Always supervise kids helping you with any cleaning activities and be sure to keep any harmful substances securely locked away.