December 14, 2023

Jingle Bells and Clean Carpets: A Canadian Guide to Holiday Prep

14 Dec. 2023

Ah, the holidays! A time for family, friends, delicious food, and… stressful cleaning?

Not this year, eh! Let’s ditch the last-minute panic and embrace a calm, organized approach to holiday prep, Canadian style.

Think of it as a festive two-step: jingle bells and clean carpets, baby!

Step 1: Deck the Halls (and Clean Them First!)

Before you can hang a single bauble, let’s give your home a deep clean. Imagine it as clearing the stage for the holiday magic to unfold. Here’s how to tackle each room, Canadian-style:

Living Room: Dust off the mantelpiece, clean windows to let in the winter wonderland scenery, and vacuum those cozy carpets (more on that later!). Fluff up, throw pillows and arrange some festive pine cones for a touch of nature.
Kitchen: Time to conquer the heart of the home! Deep clean appliances, declutter countertops, and organize spices for all those holiday baking projects. Bonus points for a sparkling oven, ready for gingerbread cookies and turkey roasts.
Bedrooms: Ensure restful nights for all your guests with fresh linens, fluffy pillows, and decluttered surfaces. Vacuum carpets and rugs for a dust-free sleep haven.
Bathroom: Make your guests feel pampered with sparkling clean bathrooms. Scrub sinks, bathtubs, and toilets, and refill toiletries. Spruce up towels and bathmats for a spa-like experience.

Step 2: Carpet Cleaning Magic: The Canadian Difference

Now, let’s talk about those carpets. Canadians know the importance of keeping them clean and cozy, especially during the holidays. Here are some tips for sparkling carpets, Canadian-style:

Pre-clean with a natural carpet freshener: Sprinkle baking soda or borax on your carpets before vacuuming to absorb odours and neutralize pet stains. Bonus points for using essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus for a festive touch.
Embrace the power of steam cleaning: For deep cleaning, consider renting a carpet steamer. It’s gentle on carpets yet super effective at removing dirt, dust mites, and allergens. Perfect for those with allergies or pets!
Snow-inspired spot cleaning: For stubborn spills, use a homemade cleaning solution with vinegar and water. Apply directly to the stain, blot with a clean cloth, and voila! No harsh chemicals or store-bought products needed.
Boot-free zones: Designate “boot-free” areas in your entryway and living room to prevent snow and dirt from being tracked in. This will save you time and energy on carpet cleaning later.

Bonus Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday Season:

Plan and schedule: Don’t leave everything to the last minute. Make a list of cleaning tasks and delegate responsibilities if possible.
Embrace the outdoors: Take advantage of the crisp winter air and clean your windows while letting in the festive atmosphere.
Make it a family affair: Turn cleaning into a fun activity with music, snacks, and games. Get everyone involved and make it a bonding experience.
Enjoy the process: Remember, the holidays are about spending time with loved ones. Don’t get caught up in cleaning perfectionism. Relax, have fun, and enjoy the journey!

By following these tips, you can ensure a sparkling clean and cozy home for the holidays, Canadian-style. Remember, it’s about creating memories, not achieving cleaning perfection. So, put on some festive tunes, grab your favourite cleaning tools, and get ready to jingle your way to a stress-free and joyful holiday season!

Happy holidays from Canada!