Springtime

It’s officially spring as of last Saturday. And what a beautiful first day of spring we had in Rockdale.

Usually there are some things that need doing around the house when spring rolls around. Here is a checklist compiled from all the experts.

And after a year of this virus floating around, a good thorough cleaning wouldn’t be a bad thing at all.

• Clean out your gutters and check to see if any repairs are needed.

• Check your outside faucets for winter damage.

• Repair window screens.

• Re-caulk windows and doors if needed.

• Clean out your garage.

• Have your air conditioner serviced.

• Sharpen your lawn mower blades.

• Use a vacuum to removed dust from walls and ceilings, especially in the kitchen.

• Vacuum and wash rugs. If washing isn’t an option, take rugs outside and hang over a fence, beat the dirt out and let them air in the sun.

• Dust books and shelves.

• Change the batteries in your smoke detectors.

• Wash your window treatments.

• If you have a fireplace, spring is a good time to clean it and make sure it’s ready for next winter.

• Power wash everything you can outside.

• Clean your patio furniture and wash upholstered cushions and pillows.

• Fertilize your lawn.

• Replace all filters including your air conditioning filters, vent hood filters and water filters.

• Clean out the dryer vent.

• Wash your windows inside and outside. Or hire someone to do it.

• Give your grill a good cleaning.

• Maintain your outdoor tools.

• Clean the refrigerator and throw out anything that has passed its prime.

• Give your microwave a good scrubbing.

• Spring is a good time to put up your winter clothes and purge other clothes.

• Plain white vinegar in bowls around the house will absorb odors.

• Dust your lampshades and light bulbs.

• Dust and wash your blinds.

• Switch the direction of your ceiling fans. Clockwise is for fall and winter, and counterclockwise is for spring and summer. There is a switch to do this.

Whatever you decide to do around the house, enjoy this springtime weather because you know it won’t last very long around here.—K.W.C.