BACK TO SCHOOL TIPS
The timing of this newsletter may be a little late, as many children in the U.S. have already started back to school this week. However, it's never too late to utilize some of these tips for starting the new school year off with a "clean slate!"
Clear Last Year's Clutter -- In the rush to purchase school clothes and school supplies, etc., it's possible you haven't had time to clear out last year's school clutter. Once the kids are on a regular schedule, take time out to sort through last year's school paperwork. You don't need to keep everything. Pick out a few representative items to reflect last year accomplishments. Store them in a 3-ring binder or purchase special decorative storage boxes. Be sure to label it with the child's name, school and year.
Fresh Start -- Toss that crumpled paper, broken scissors, pencils, pens, crayons, etc. You've probably purchased new ones -- no need to keep the old. Have containers on hand to store paper and craft supplies. If you can't afford to purchase them, utilize what you have on hand (soup/coffee cans covered in decorated craft paper make great storage for art supplies, etc.).
Recycle -- Sort through last year's clothing, shoes, bookbags, etc. Toss those that are not servicable. Donate useable shoes, clothing and other items that no longer fit your child. Someone less fortunate could put them to good use.
Medical Records -- Make sure you keep a copy of immunization records, school sports pysicals, etc.
Learning Area/Study Zone -- Set aside a special kids learning area for study. Make sure it's quiet. Studying in front of the TV is not conducive to good study habits. Make sure to have all necessary desk supplies (pens, paper, etc.) and reference materials on hand and easy to reach.
Click here to find out about organizing backpacks or school lockers.
FALL CLEANING TIPS
Take advantage of these pleasant cool fall days to prepare your home for winter and the upcoming holiday season. Deep cleaning now will help insure a healthier winter -- you won't be closing up your house with a lot of dirt and dust bunnies!
Clean Out Cobwebs & Dust Bunnies -- Vacuum drapes and window treatments. Clean window sills and window wells. Vacuum baseboards and corners. Vacuum upholstered furniture, or have them professionally cleaned if needed. Move furniture and vacuum beneath and behind it. Wash interior windows.
Turn Over A New Leaf -- (. . . or at least your mattresses)! Turning your mattresses front-to-back and end-to-end twice a year helps to equalize wear. Your mattresses will last longer.
Laundry -- Launder mattress pads, pillows, duvets, blankets and comforters. Tuck your family in clean bedding during the winter months!
Carpet/Floor Cleaning -- If using a professional service, schedule early! Professional cleaners get overbooked beginning in October and during the holiday season.
Prepare Pantry & Kitchen -- Get your kitchen ready for holiday cooking. Check out the tips on pantry and kitchen organization. Clear your counters of clutter and clean out those junk drawers!
Refrigerator Cleaning -- In addition to cleaning the interior of your refrigerator, pull the refrigerator away from the wall, and vacuum the condenser coils. For bottom-mounted coils, use a long, narrow brush to clean coils of dust and debris.
Light Fixtures -- Wash the glass on interior light fixtures and bowls. Make your winter evenings brighter!
Smoke Alarms -- Check batteries on smoke detectors every month, but especially during the upcoming holiday season.
Appliance Inspection -- Inspect each kitchen appliance. Make sure they work properly. Stock up on any supplies associated with the appliance. Repair or replace any that are broken.
Winter Weather Prep -- Stock up now on salt for those icy sidewalks. Don't wait until the first ice storm hits -- you don't want to go slipping on icy walkways to purchase what you need!
Air Filters & Purifiers -- Clean them following the manufacturer's recommendations in the manual. Change those central heat/air filters and stock up on extra filters for the winter. Clean or replace humidifier elements before the heating season begins.
Washer & Dryers -- Inspect washer hoses. Check for bulges, cracks and splits. Replace them if needed. Check dryer exhaust tube and vent for built-up lint, debris or birds' nests! Clean them with brushes designed for dryer exhaust tubes. Make sure the exterior vent door closes tightly when not in use.
Stay In Hot Water -- Drain sediment from hot water heaters. Keep a steady supply of hot water all winter!
Stock Up -- Stock up your pantry with items that will last for upcoming holiday cooking. Bullion, spices, etc. will last well if stored properly.
PRODUCT REVIEW
Charging Valets -- I love electronic gadgets. I'm not so good at remembering to plug them in to recharge the batteries.
If you have more than one (and who doesn't these days), consider a charging valet. It allows you to charge up several devices all at once. Most have a concealed power strip in the back or bottom. Simply plug the power strip in, then plug in your electronic devices at night. You'll have them all in one handy place and ready for use the next morning.
The one displayed here retails for around $19.99. They come in various styles, colors and price ranges.
I hope you've enjoyed Volume 2 of Messy Makeover Magazine. I consider it a privilege that you took your valuable time to subscribe and read this magazine.
In next month's issue:
- Halloween Safety Tips
- Preparing for Thanksgiving
- Product Review (another surprise)
Stay tuned for the next issue!
Toodles!
Shelly Morton
Owner/Founder
https://www.straighten-up-now.com
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