It appears spring is on its way here! I’m sure many of you are thinking about that dreaded spring cleaning that is just around the corner. While this is often an important time to scrub away those winter germs, most people don’t look forward to the deep cleaning it requires. It’s often an overwhelming task and it seems as those once you get started you only end up creating more of a mess to clean up!

I recently came across a checklist of sorts from the Queen of Cleaning herself, Martha Stewart. I found it rather handy and it breaks down the daunting task of spring cleaning into smaller, easier, tasks.

To read the full article, you can click here. Below are merely a few tips to help you get started with those pesky windows.

1. Schedule the project. Choose a time when the sun is not shining directly on windows. Its hot rays can cause the cleaning solution to dry, which will result in streaks.

2. Clean the surface with a soft-bristle brush, dust away cobwebs and loose dirt from windows and frames. Don’t forget hinges, sills, and tracks. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands, especially if the frames are old and splintery.

3. Make the cleaning solution. Mix 1 part white vinegar and 1 part hot water.

4. Prevent a mess before cleaning the inside of each window; place an absorbent terry-cloth towel along the windowsill to catch drips.

5. Wet the glass. Using a sponge, wet (but don’t drench) the windowpane with the vinegar-and-water solution, and rub away the dirt. As much as possible, keep the solution from coming into contact with the window frames.

6. Prime a squeegee. Wet the rubber blade; a dry one will skip.

7. Wipe the glass. Starting at an upper corner of the pane, draw the squeegee down in a straight, confident stroke. Wipe the rubber edge of the squeegee with a sponge or a lint-free cloth. Return to the top and repeat, slightly overlapping the first stroke. Finish by pulling the squeegee across the bottom of the window. Dry the sill.

8. Clean the frames. Wipe surfaces using a cloth dampened with a non-ammoniated all-purpose cleaner and water. Rinse them thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth to remove cleaning solution, and dry immediately by wiping with a clean, dry cloth.