Some people look forward to spring cleaning in Fall River, Massachusetts all year long. Others do both a spring and a fall cleaning. Yet there are a few out there who haven’t experienced a cleaning season for many years. Whatever the season – spring, summer, fall or winter – it’s always a good time to go through your belongings, remember how to de-clutter the house and get rid of the excess junk.
This article will provide you with tips for spring cleaning in Massachusetts, as well as ideas on how to de-clutter the house and how to use a storage facility for items that you don’t want to get rid of, but don’t have room for in your home. It can be hard to make these decisions, particularly if you have become a bit of a pack rat over the years, but when you have access to Affordable Storage in Fall River, it makes it easy to get rid of the junk, while preserving those special items that you want to take care of and keep.
Getting Started – Tips for Spring Cleaning in Fall River, Massachusetts
People started this business of spring cleaning in Massachusetts and all throughout the early states in America, particularly in regions that experienced very cold and wet seasons, as a means of thoroughly cleaning the home. Before the vacuum existed, people would clean their homes in spring, in the month of March, because it was then that the weather finally got warm enough to open up all the windows and doors so the winds could carry the dust out of the house.
Fortunately, we have vacuums and many other modern conveniences today that make it much easier. Stock up on a supply of all the things you’ll need: cleaners, vacuum bags, air fresheners, sanitizing sprays, dust rags, mops and any specialized cleaning solutions you might need for polishing furniture, cleaning hardwood floors or removing soap scum from bathrooms.
If it helps, make a list of all the rooms in your home before you attempt spring cleaning in Massachusetts and write down all the things you’ll need to clean those rooms thoroughly. It will save you from making a lot of trips to the store throughout the process. This can also help you get everything together you’ll need as you move from room to room so you can just get in there and get it done.
Just Do It – How to De-Clutter the House
Before you can wash down walls, wipe down counters, sweep, mop or vacuum, you must start by learning how to de-clutter the house. The best way to do this is to start by going through your things to decide which items should stay in the house, which should be put into Affordable Storage in Fall River, and which items should be sold, donated, recycled or thrown away. Some people like to get large boxes and label them for the sorting process. Use whatever method works best for you.
If you have trouble sorting your things, and many people do, here are some tips that will help you learn how to de-clutter the house like a pro. Just ask yourself the following questions and then sort your items accordingly:
#1 – When did I use this item last?
Create a rule of thumb, such as “if I haven’t used it in a year…” and stick with it. Items of value that you want to keep can be stored at Affordable Storage in Fall River, while other items can be sorted into the sell, donate, recycle or trash boxes.
#2 – Will I use this item again?
This question will help you as you consider the sell, donate, recycle or trash portion of the de-cluttering process. Again, if you think you will be using the item one day – but not for awhile – this can sometimes be the best way to learn how to use a storage facility to your advantage.
#3 – Is the item broken and can it be repaired?
This part will help you realize if something can be done with the item or if it just needs to be recycled or thrown away. If the item cannot be repaired, you are probably better off without it if it is no longer of any value.
#4 – How much will it cost to replace?
If you think you can repair the item, consider the difference between how much it will cost to repair versus how much it will cost to replace. Again, if cost is a factor it might influence your decision. If the item itself is what’s important, that will help you to decide as well.
#5 – Can this item be stored?
Some things can be easily stored, while others might not be able to go into Affordable Storage in Fall River for whatever reason. Hazardous materials should not be put into storage, but equipment, recreational vehicles and other things can usually be stored. Contact Affordable Storage in Fall River to ask about their vehicle and equipment storage opportunities.
#6 – Why am I attached to this item?
This question is particularly important if all other questions have led to the idea that the item is junk. If it is broken, you haven’t used it in over a year, don’t think you will be using it and it has no actual value, why do you want to keep it? Some people make unusual attachments to items and, in some cases, that is something that might need to be addressed.
Smart Storage Ideas – How to Use a Storage Facility
There are many different ways to use a storage facility. The best way to use your space at Affordable Storage in Fall River to your advantage is to start off by organizing it and labeling the items you put into storage. You can bring in metal shelving units to put smaller items or boxes that you will want to access on an annual or regular basis, such as tools, holiday decorations or other seasonal items.
Boxes should be clearly labeled, fragile items should be packed as if you were moving across the country, using bubble wrap, packing peanuts or other materials to keep them safe, and everything should be sealed to prevent dust from getting inside to your belongings. This is particularly true with special items, such as wedding dresses, your great aunt’s china tea set, collectible items or anything else that holds value.
If you don’t have access to a truck, speak with the folks at Affordable Storage in Fall River. They are an authorized Penske Truck rental dealer and can help you rent a truck that will safely move all of your things to your storage unit. For more tips on how to use a storage facility, or if you have any specific questions about storage rules and use, contact Affordable Storage direct at 508-675-1177.