The cooler and colder air has arrived in Central Ohio, the holidays are on our mind and winter is coming. This time of year, can be stressful but planning ahead can help to keep that feeling of being overwhelmed at bay. Here are some tips to get ready for what's ahead and get your family involved in the process with some of your favorite music in your playlist.

1. Schedules can reduce stress and overwhelm. So, let’s make a list and check it twice this season, creating an itemized list of all the tasks that need done will allow you to break them down into smaller tasks over time. Then, you can assign specific dates or times for each task to be completed. If you have children, get them involved and invite them into your projects, you can even create a fun reward system for them as you all achieve the goals you set out as a family to complete.
   
   
2. Decluttering can give you that fresh start, after removing unnecessary items that have accumulated over time. Grab a few bins to place items in easily for sale, donate and keep the ones that bring you joy and have an intentional purpose in your home.
   
   
3. Deep clean: Focus on areas that are often overlooked during regular cleaning, such as baseboards, ceiling fans, light fixtures, and windows. Dust and wipe down surfaces, vacuum carpets, and mop floors.
   
   
4. Organize storage spaces: Clean and organize closets, cabinets, and storage areas. This will not only make your house look tidier but also provide extra space for holiday decorations or guests' belongings.
   
   
5. The heart of most homes is in the kitchen. The place everyone gathers round to raise a glass, taste a new recipe and connect and share. In addition to cleaning your appliances (yes, the oven and refrigerator too), decluttering kitchen cabinets and organizing and cleaning your pantry and countertops can help get you in a festive mood, right along with your guests.
   
   
6. Freshen up upholstery and carpets: Vacuum and spot clean carpets, and consider getting them professionally cleaned if needed. Use fabric fresheners or steam clean upholstery to remove any odors or stains.
   
   
7. Deep cleaning the bathrooms from scrubbing the toilets, sinks, showers and tubs can leave you feeling refreshed. This is a great time to replace worn-out towels or shower curtains and stock up on extra toiletries if you’ll have guests this holiday season.
8. Give your entrance some love and create a welcoming space, clean the front porch, sweep the walkway, add some festive decorations. Don’t forget the doormat and any designated areas for shoes. 

These ideas can help you get started in preparation for the holidays and as always, we are a phone call away to help you get your home clean and ready for anything.