10 Spring Cleaning Safety Tips
After being cooped up all winter, it's time to bring a little freshness to your home. A thorough spring cleaning gets your house sparkling, but it's not without hazards. So get off to a squeaky, clean start, but do it with caution and care. Here are 10 Spring cleaning safety tips for you to keep in mind as you get your spring cleaning done.
Start with a schedule. Review your home make a list of what is needed. Then you can prioritize and schedule your cleaning to keep from being overwhelmed.
Clear the clutter. Before cleaning, pick up any stray objects that you could trip over.
Be careful moving large pieces of furniture and appliances. Use proper lifting techniques, keeping your back straight and lifting your legs.
Follow instructions. If the label on the cleaning product recommends wearing gloves or a mask, there's a good reason for it. Gather the proper supplies before you start scrubbing.
Be careful with the bucket. Even a couple of inches of water can be a drowning risk for small children. Keep filled mop buckets away from kids. Store buckets empty and upside down.
Ventilate. Even if it's chilly outside, open windows to circulate fresh air and help prevent chemical or allergic reactions.
Keep cleaning products out of reach. Make sure kids and pets can't get access to them.
Be careful when walking on wet surfaces. Everyone knows how easy it is to slip on a damp floor. Make sure you take the proper precautions to keep from falling. Also, make sure others in your family, including children, are warned of the wet floor to keep them safe.
Go mild. Only use hazardous cleaning agents such as ammonia and bleach when necessary. And never mix the two — you could create a toxic gas.
Climb with care. If you need to use a ladder, ask someone to hold it. Avoid leaning too far to one side.
