April is time to get ready for outdoor living

Benefits of a monthly home maintenance checklist

Monthly home maintenance checklist

Things to do weekly

• Disinfect bathroom and kitchen counters.
• Clean mirrors with mirror cleaner.
• Scrub toilets.
• Dust easy-to-reach surfaces.
• Vacuum and mop hard floors. You can make an inexpensive homemade mop solution using 1/2 cup vinegar to 1 gallon of warm water.
• Change bedsheets.
• Water plants.
• Take out the garbage.

Things to do each month

• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Batteries should be changed twice a year; replace alarms every 10 years.
• Change out your air filters and check that no air vents are blocked.
• Dust harder-to-reach places and nooks and crannies, like high shelves, blinds and windows, bookshelves and entertainment centers.
• Wipe down kitchen cabinets and appliances.
• Vacuum all carpeted surfaces, including missed areas like stairs and closets. Don't forget to use a broom or dust mop to reach under couches, ovens, cabinets, tables, etc.
• Check tub and sink drains; unclog if needed.
• Clean faucet heads and shower heads to remove mineral deposits.
• Clean the garbage disposal. Better Homes and Gardens recommends dropping ice cubes in the disposal, turning it on then flushing with warm water and baking soda.
• Inspect electrical cords for ware.
• Wipe down floorboards.
• Wipe down inside and outside of refrigerator and freezer; toss expired or unwanted items.
• Clean out microwave. Place a microwave-safe bowl with water and 2 tablespoons vinegar inside and heat on high for 5 minutes. Leave microwave door closed for 3 minutes, then carefully remove bowl and wipe down interior of microwave with a rag.
• Bathe pets and wash pet bedding.
• Vacuum and wipe down furniture.

Spring maintenance tasks by month

March

• Wash curtains, drapes and sheers.
• Dust blinds.
• Wash windows inside and out.
• Dust overhead lights and ceiling fans; replace bulbs if needed.
• Wipe down floorboards and walls; assess where repainting may be needed.
• Deep clean bathrooms.
• Toss expired makeup, medicines and other personal care products.
• Flip mattresses and wash all bedding, including bedspreads, blankets, pillow shams, etc.
• Clean carpets or schedule a carpet cleaning.
• Sanitize children's toys and wash stuffed animals.

April

• Clean gutters and downspouts.
• Power wash your home if needed.
• Seal holes where bugs or mice could enter your home.
• Check that door handles and locks are secure. Check out 5 On Your Side's 5 cheap ways to burglar-proof your home.
• Give your garage or shed some TLC -- sweep, dust and organize. Check for cracks that need to be sealed.
• Check out WRAL's spring lawn care guide.

May

• Set your ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise, which will push cool air down.
• Check sealing on windows and doors ahead of intense summer heat.
• Consider installing drapes on windows that let in a lot of sunlight. This can help keep rooms cool.
• 5 On Your Side has 5 ways to cut down on your energy bill.
• Prepare for severe weather by making a hurricane kit and making sure your family has an emergency plan in the event of a tornado or hurricane.

Summer maintenance tasks by month

June/July

• Have your air conditioning unit checked and serviced
• Inspect showers and tubs; replace caulking if needed.
• Repair or repaint the outside of home, if needed.
• Clean the dryer vent and exhaust duct.
• Inspect outdoor play equipment for safety.
• Inspect fencing.
• Refill or repair cracks in cement or driveway.

August

Fall maintenance tasks by month

September

• Schedule an inspection for your heating system before cold weather arrives.
• Inspect roof for missing or damaged shingles; repair if needed.
• Inspect your home's siding; repair if needed.
• Seal cracks in doors and windows.
• Power wash your home.
• Stock up on winter supplies like ice scrapers and snow shovels.

October

• Rake leaves and aerate your lawn.
• Drain hoses or in-ground sprinkler systems.
• Repair or replace your home's siding.
• Remove leaves and debris from gutters or downspouts.

November

• Tune-up major home appliances.
• Consider having your carpets professionally cleaned.
• Vacuum lint from the dryer vent.
• Clean windows and window screens.

Winter maintenance tasks by month

December

• Switch the direction of your ceiling fan to turn clockwise.
• Turn off outdoor faucets.
• Cover or store outdoor furniture.
• Consider covering your air conditioning unit to protect it from the elements.
• Have your chimney and fireplace inspected.

January

• Clean out closets, cabinets and garages, getting rid of unused or unwanted items. I'm a big fan of Marie Kondo, who recommends only keeping items that spark joy.
• This is also a great time to organize books, photos and movies.
• Gently used items should be donated.
• Clean out your kitchen pantry, tossing expired items. Don't forget to check the expiration dates on your spices.

February

Helpful resources

• Five cheap ways to burglar-proof your home
• WRAL 5 On Your Side: Five ways to cut down on your energy bill
• How to create a beautiful lawn based on the type of grass you have
• How to care for your lawn this spring (for beginners)
• Make sure your ceiling fan is spinning the right way for cooling
• Preparing for a storm
• Keep the kitchen clean; don't make yourself sick at home