Spring is here and it seems almost instinctive to get into the cleaning mode. Spring is a time of renewal and a home that's fresh from top to bottom is a great way to start.

Unfortunately, most of us don't have the time to scrub every surface. In times past, people heated with coal or wood which left everything covered with a sooty film. In the spring, furniture would be placed on the lawn, scrubbed down and possibly given a fresh coat of paint. Then, the inside would be tackled. In warmer climates, there would still be the residue of candles or kerosene lanterns that would need to be kept at bay.

Even with cleaner heat and electric lighting, it still feels natural to keep the tradition going. So, where do we start? You'll need to come up with a game plan. You probably won't get through the process in a single day. However, if you break it up into smaller bits of time and enlist the help of everyone in the household, the task becomes more manageable.

Create a master list so everyone will know the plan. You'll need to have the right tools on hand, including a good mop, vacuum, large sponges, dust pan and broom, an extended duster for cobwebs and hard to reach places plus a step ladder and paper towels. And don't forget the household gloves. They can be latex or rubber, heavy duty or disposable. Dust and sweep before you clean. It makes the job easier.

First, keep in mind that using non-toxic cleaners is better for your health and better for the environment. Vinegar is a time tested favorite and does a fine job on a number of surfaces, including windows and mirrors. To make your own solution, mix two cups water with a quarter cup white distilled vinegar and about a half teaspoon of liquid soap in a spray bottle. Don't forget to add a label so you won't be trying to figure out what it is later.

A natural solution for getting rid of musty, moldy odors is to mix two cups of water with two teaspoons of tea tree oil. You get this at most natural food stores. Just spray on the surface and let it do its work. The tea tree smell will dissipate after a couple of days and leave everything fresh. Citrus cleaners work very well, also. You can purchase a commercially prepared product or make your own by mixing two cups of water with twenty drops of citrus seed extract in a spray bottle.

Your furniture will shine when you polish it with a flannel cloth (a cloth diaper works great) dipped in a solution of a quarter cup of vinegar with a few drops of real lemon oil. And straight vinegar works great for cleaning cutting boards or any surface you wish to disinfect without chemicals.

Baking soda is a non-abrasive cleanser for countertops, ovens, sinks and even fiberglass. It's a great freshener for carpets. Just sprinkle on, wait an hour or let it sit overnight and vacuum. And if the drain is clogged, add one cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar. When the bubbling is finished, pour a quart of boiling water down the drain. That's usually enough to clear out the grime.

Wash walls from the bottom up to avoid streaking. Fullers Earth and cornstarch usually work magic on greasy spots and an art gum eraser will take away most crayon and pencil marks. Place small knick-knacks in the dishwasher. If you are afraid they might get dislodged from their assigned space, wrap them in netting.

While you're at it, take this opportunity to get rid of the clutter. Items you no longer use or need can be donated to a worthy charity. Your home will look better and you'll get a tax write-off in the process.

Copyright 2007 PropertySource Network