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Get an early start on Spring-Cleaning

© Peggy Hoehne

Spring is coming, but it is not here yet. Days are still often gray and dreary. Use this time to do some pre-spring cleaning. Pre-Spring cleaning is a way to spend a cold unpleasant winter day. You can accomplish a lot and not have to waste a perfectly good spring day stuck inside a stuffy closet.

Now is the time to pull out all of those spring and summer clothes. Go over them; do they still fit, do they need some minor repairs, what basic pieces will you need to add to your wardrobe? If they no longer fit or you don't like them well enough to wear again get them out of your closet and dresser drawers. Learn how to let go.

Those in excellent condition take to a consignment shop. They will be adding spring and summer items in late February and early March. If it is a bit out of style but still in good condition donate it to Goodwill or another charity of your choice. You can get a receipt to use as a tax deduction.

While you are in the closet checking clothes look over the winter selections. Decide which items you will not be using next year. Sort them for discards, donations and resale. Have a yard sale the first warm weekend. Don't bring it back into the house. If it doesn't sell - donate it.

While you are at it organize your kitchen, too. We use only about 20 percent of the items in our kitchens 80 percent of the time. The other 80 percent is taking up space you could put to better use. The rule of thumb is if it hasn't been used in two years it is taking up valuable space and you should consider giving it away or putting it on your garage sale.

Sort items for those used near the sink, stove or baking center. Put items used daily at the front of the shelves located between 22 and 72 inches from the floor. Those used only once or twice a month should be placed above, below, or behind everyday items. Those used only occasionally can be stored somewhere other than the kitchen. The basement, utility room or garage often works well for these items.

Another great way to spend a dreary day is organizing all of those holiday photos. Purchase a supply of acid-free archival binders. Try to keep a couple of extra ones on hand to encourage you to fill them as soon as you have your next photos developed.

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