We all know how the story goes: During winter break, Mom and Dad leave for work, and the kids are left with a to-do list of chores to prepare for the holidays. From dusting and vacuuming to emptying the dishwasher and watering the plants, all of these tasks spruce up your home just in time for Ole Saint Nick. However, there may be a few maintenance jobs that didn’t make the cut. To help you keep your home in tip-top shape for Santa’s visit, here is Warner Service’s comprehensive, last-minute checklist:
Inspect and change the air filter. Most experts suggest changing the air filter monthly, but the scheduled switch to a clean air filter could depend on a number of factors, such as the amount of dust in your home, how many pets and people live there and if there is smoking inside the house. However, to be on the safe side, it’s a good idea to change them every month or more often. It may just land you on the Nice List.
Clean the kitchen disposal. Before the Who Feast, homeowners should clean out the kitchen disposal by freezing vinegar in ice cube trays overnight. Once frozen, drop the vinegar cubes down the disposal and run it. It will help freshen the scent and sharpen the blades.
Check the fire extinguisher. The only thing that should go ablaze this Christmas is your cheeks when Grandma buys you underwear again. However, if something does catch fire, you should be sure that the fire extinguishers are readily available, accessible and ready to use.
Test the carbon dioxide detectors and smoke alarms. Jingle bells, nothing should smell. Press the “test” button on each alarm to listen if it makes a noise. If not, change the batteries and test again. If there’s still no sound, go to your local hardware store and purchase a new one.
Flush toilets that aren’t used often. If you have a large guest list for the holiday, you should test the toilets and sinks that don’t get daily use. This is to make sure everything is in working condition and test for build-up, corrosion and grime because none of those things are on anyone’s Christmas list.
Deep clean your home. Remember that dreadful to-do list of chores? It’s actually good for your home’s life, so to speak. Think of it as a spa day. Here’s a short checklist to get you started:
- Clean behind appliances with duster, paper towels or Clorox wipes
- Clean out the refrigerator and freezer
- Mop the tile floor
- Windex the windows, mirrors and storm doors
- Dust the blinds, wood furniture, picture frames and knickknacks
- Vacuum the couches and chairs
- Wash the kitchen and bar seat cushions in the washing machine
- Replace the kitchen and bathroom towels
- Give your walls a fresh coat of paint or gloss
- Water the plants, or put greenery in each room
- Empty all the trash cans, Lysol the can and replace the trash bags
- Wipe down the doorknobs, handles and locks
Check your electricity. With the influx of technology, everyone is going to need an outlet to charge their phone while others are opening presents. If it’s not a phone, it’s a camera, video recorder or a new toy. Carefully go around your home (We don’t want you looking like the Heat Miser) and test the outlets by plugging in a reliable cord.
Caulk around the shower, tub and windows. Repair any holes as needed. Nobody wants to walk in a winter wonderland while scrubbing clean.
Take a good look at the basement. Basements are often overlooked because people don’t spend as much time in them as their bedroom or the kitchen. However, even if your basement is just a storage area, you should deep clean it, throw out any old junk or garbage and check for mold.
We know you probably have some cooking to do, but before you get started, make sure all of these tasks are completed around your home. It may look like a lot, but pop in some Christmas tunes and you’ll be rushing around like some elves in the workshop. If you need our help, call Warner Service today.
