Winter Cleaning Tips

Clean from the top down, she advises. Start with the high spaces first, then the low spaces because dirt falls. No need to clean things twice.

Start cleaning the windows in every room with your household window cleaner. Edelman says, Clean those on a cloudy or cool day instead of a hot day because on warm days windows dry faster and cause streaks.

After you've finished the windows, tackle all the things that are hanging in your rooms: drapes and curtains. Wash the drapes or curtains according to the instructions, or vacuum them with the brush attachment.

Speaking of hanging items, for chandeliers and fans, many people overlook these but take the time to clean them with a microfiber cloth to attract more dust or hang an umbrella upside down to catch the falling dirt as you clean like Mary Poppins.

Move on to the kitchen and get the kids involved. Go through the cupboards and clean out what’s expired. Mealy bugs can get into most things so throw out anything that hasn’t be sealed up tight. Clean the fridge and shelves with an easy solution of vinegar and water.

An often overlooked spot in the kitchen is the bottom of the refrigerator. Don’t forget to clean the drip pan at the bottom of the fridge where mold and mildew can collect along with the occasional roach. I use vodka and water to clean that portion with a little toothbrush to get all the crevices.

Many people forget to clean the dishwasher because they think they don’t have to, says Edelman. But to eliminate that funky smell or just to revitalize it, pour in a cup of vinegar or baking soda and run an empty cycle to clean it.

Bedrooms are a major place to clean. Dust mites are a huge problem, so make sure to take off all of your spring linens, wash them in hot water and change them out for your winter bedding. Then vacuum underneath the mattress, along the baseboards, flip your mattress and turn it around.

Now take your cleaning outside. Head outside to tackle the gutters, says Edelman. But don't try to do this alone. Hire a professional to clean out the gutters to prevent drainage problems and mold.

Now that it’s getting colder, check insulations on windows and doors. Buy a Thermal Leak Detector to determine where there are gaps in your home that are leaking heat or letting the cold in, suggests Edelman. Make sure to check outlets as well.