How to Organize Your Cleaning Supplies

Along with the sounds and smells of spring comes the urge to open up the house and do a thorough spring cleaning.  By taking inventory of your cleaning supplies and organizing them, you will save time and be more motivated.  Follow these tips to make this year’s spring cleaning easier than ever:

•    Take Inventory – Begin by taking inventory of your current cleaning supplies.  Gather them from your closets, garage, under the sink, etc. and group them together.  Determine what products you use and get rid of the rest.  If there is anything you are missing, create a shopping list.  Are your mops and brooms in good condition?  How about your rags, buckets, and rubber gloves?  If any of these need to be replaced, add them to your shopping list.

•    Use a Caddy – If you don’t already have a caddy with a handle, I highly recommend purchasing one.  You can store all of your “everyday” cleaning supplies in here and carry it from room to room.

•    Dedicate Space – Now that you have collected your supplies and know how much storage space you need, it is time to choose a space to store them.  It is best to keep all of your cleaning supplies together in one area so you know what you have and where to find it.  This space could be a closet, pantry, or space in the garage or under the stairs.

•    Hang Mops and Brooms – Install a wall-mounted mop and broom holder to make the best use of your long-handled cleaning tools, such as mops, brooms, dustpans, and dusters.  Not only does this free up your floor space, but it helps to dry and air them out.

Now that your cleaning supplies are gathered and organized, you will save time on your cleaning.  So go ahead, open your windows, and jump right into your spring cleaning.

Donna Lindley, Certified Professional Organizer and owner of Rochester Hills, MI-based Organize Your World, Inc.