Use Natural Cleaning Products

Many over-the-counter cleaning products contain harsh chemicals in the form of cleaning agents and fragrances. Because you'll be spending more time indoors as well as most likely keeping your doors and windows closed, that means chemical fumes created by these products will remain in your indoor environment. Using natural cleaning products will help keep toxic compounds out of your indoor air. Most of these are lightly scented with essential oils, but fragrance-free options also exist.

Inspect for Insects

Autumn is the time of year when certain insects start their search for warm, comfortable places to spend the winter. Other insects, such as the common housefly, may be nearing the end of their lifespans and are on the hunt for a place to lay their last batch of eggs. Be particularly vigilant for signs of insects or their eggs when doing deep-cleaning tasks during the autumn season. Most insects prefer dark, cool environments such as under sinks and behind large appliances.

Give In to the Urge to Purge

One of the main advantages of doing a major deep cleaning in spring and again in autumn is that clutter doesn't have a chance to build-up to the extent that it becomes overwhelming. Go with the urge to purge instead of trying to resist — you'll be glad you did, especially when it comes time to do your spring cleaning because there will be that much less clutter to deal with.

We've got spacious floor plans featuring one, two and three bedrooms. Please feel free to give us a call today to find out what's available.

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Decluttering is an excellent way to make the most of your space. If you are living with an excess of kitchen gadgets or a closet full of clothes you never wear, try these tips for getting rid of your clutter.

Donate unneeded items

It’s easier to let go of items when you know they will help someone else. Research local donation options and select the one that works best for you. You could choose a one-organization-takes-all approach and donate to Goodwill or the Salvation Army. Or, you could give to organizations looking for specific items, such as charities that collect workwear for job seekers. Some organizations even pick up donations. Knowing you won’t need to load and deliver donations can help you stay motivated, and prescheduling a pickup will help you stick to a deadline.

Work in 15-minute chunks

The idea of decluttering your entire apartment at once can be overwhelming. Rather than focusing on the big picture or spending your weekend sorting and tossing, work on decluttering in 15-minute sections. Choose one small area each day, such as a kitchen cabinet or closet shelf, and devote your attention there. Put away misplaced items, add unneeded items to your donation box and toss items that have outlived their usefulness. Follow the routine for a week and you are sure to see a difference.

Set criteria

Set yourself up for success by establishing criteria for items you want to keep or donate before you start decluttering. Donate anything you have duplicates of or that you haven’t used in the past year. Donate clothing that doesn't fit, isn't flattering, you don’t wear regularly or that doesn't make you feel confident. Anything that is damaged or past its prime should be thrown away.

Keep the memories, not the clutter

Saying goodbye to sentimental items can be difficult. To keep the memories while freeing up space, take digital photos of the items and then focus on how your past can help someone else’s future.

Whether your apartment is perfectly decluttered or if you feel more comfortable hanging on to sentimental items, sometimes you just need a little more room. If you are looking for Cary apartments with ample storage space, check out the floor plans at Audubon Parc Apartments.

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