Postby ejagno » Sat Jan 06, 2018 12:58 am
In addition to the visual focus of each area, I'm working on the hidden factors as well. For instance, this weeks focus is front porch and entrance. Not only do I want to make sure that it is decluttered, clean and organized but make sure that I have what I need on hand (for the year) to decorate as well as maintain this specific area. My front porch is an Acadian style porch the entire width of the house with Verde green floor, white railings, trim, ceiling and posts, vintage red shutters and front door. I have two wicker love seats, a wicker rocker and a plant stand as well as two window box planters.
I ask myself what do I need to keep this space inviting, clean and organized.
Paint - I keep a 3 oz spice jar of the white, green and red paint on hand for quick touch-ups.
Batteries- I have a keypad entrance lock. It requires 4 AA batteries. I keep a fresh set on hand.
Insect spray - Yes I live in the south where all the bugs love us. We average about 3 cans per year.
Light Bulbs - I make sure that I keep extra energy efficient light bulbs on hand for the porch lights. I keep two extra bulbs on hand.
Cleaners - I use Pine-sol to mop my front porch weekly as well as windex on the front door and windows. I use a lint roller and Clorox wipes on the
cushions that I have on each seating area. I also use Scotch guard on my outdoor cushions monthly because of our high humidity and living
in a very damp area.
All of the above are gathered in a fabric storage bin and kept in the utility room marked "FRONT PORCH SUPPLIES". There is no digging, searching or running to the store when it's time to take care of this area.
Decor. - I have seasonal wreaths for my front door as well as seasonal entrance rugs,throw pillows and lightweight fleece throws for each season. I also like to do seasonal flowers and greenery in my window boxes. All non perishable items are kept in a Rubbermaid storage tote labeled "FRONT PORCH". I put a note in my calendar to change out the window boxes 4 times a year. Since the arrangements are real I cannot do that in advance.
I do spring, summer, fall & Christmas(winter). We go back to each area approximately 4 times for a deep clean. If you don't have the time or money to acquire everything you need now simply get what you need to maintain (clean) the area. Keep it together so that it's easily accessible.
Throughout this whole plan if you ask yourself this same question and prepare what is needed you'll find yourself saving tons of time and money overall. Keeping a WHOLE HOUSE PAR LIST is amazing.