Garage Spring Cleaning
Spring is a time for renewal, so it makes sense that it has become the season when people clean up their houses. However, as you are planning your spring cleaning, don’t forget the garage. Half of all homeowners describe the garage as the most cluttered area of the house. It is often used as a storage area and ends up becoming a halfway house of sorts for garbage that you can’t quite manage to throw away.
Now is the time to clean up the garage, and here are some tips on how to do so efficiently.
Start With a Plan
A big project like cleaning the garage can seem overwhelming, but it is easier if you have a plan. Start by identifying your goals and breaking them down into manageable tasks, assigning them to family members as appropriate. Prioritize the most important tasks and determine whether certain steps have to be taken in a specific order.
Wash the Garage Windows
Not all garages have windows, but if yours does, they should be cleaned. You can probably reach the windows in doors or along the sides of the garage, but if you have windows in the garage door itself, you may not be able to reach them. Therefore, this task may require a step ladder so that you can reach the windows safely and effectively. Clean both the interior and exterior using glass cleaner or a solution of dish detergent and warm water. Use pure vinegar to remove any stubborn stains. Rinse the windows and use a small hand squeegee to remove any excess water. Avoid leaving streaks behind by drying the windows using newspaper or a microfiber cloth.
Clean the Garage Door and the Frame
Some garages are separate buildings located behind the house and some have the door on the side of the house. However, many are prominently located at the front of the house, meaning that the garage door and frame contribute significantly to your curb appeal, or lack thereof. Therefore, they should receive some special attention. You should clean the door frame by hosing and scrubbing it. If the paint is chipping or cracking, you may have to strip and repaint it.
You can use the same solution of dish soap and water to clean both sides of your garage door, then rinse it off with the hose. This is also a good opportunity to check for damage such as warping or rusting and check that the system is working properly.
Declutter the Garage
Decluttering means removing everything from the garage that is not fixed in place and sorting it into piles of things you want to keep, sell, give away, or dispose of, whether that means recycling them or throwing them away. If you have any chemicals or hazardous materials, make sure that you dispose of them safely in compliance with applicable regulations.
Sweep Out and Wipe Down the Garage
When you park your car in the garage, it can deposit dust, salt, and dirt on the floor. This can all build up over time, so one of the first things you should do is sweep the floor, making sure to get into the corners. You should then use the broom to sweep out any cobwebs and wipe down any flat surfaces, including shelving.
Hose Down and Air Out the Garage
Once the garage has been decluttered and swept out, you can use a gentle cleanser to clean the floor of your garage, then use a squeegee to remove the excess water after rinsing. Leave the windows and doors open for a while to allow air to circulate to remove the musty smell that may linger even after the garage has been cleaned thoroughly.
A dirty garage is not only unsightly and inconvenient, but it can also be dangerous. Clutter can provide fuel for a fire, and hazardous chemicals may be more likely to ignite if not handled properly.
