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The winter season brings a new set of challenges for families every year. Beyond the shorter day lengths and sub-zero temperatures, this time of year also brings a hectic schedule with family get-togethers, parties, and holidays. Between school activities, work parties, and other obligations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. With that in mind, what can you do to make things easier on you and your loved ones during this busy time? The answer is preparation. Preparing now will ease the stress later and help you smoothly get through the entire winter and holiday period.
1. Decide Which Traditions You Want to Maintain When Decorating For The Holidays
When it comes to the winter holidays, there’s no shortage of traditions you can choose from to celebrate. Some of the most well-known include gift-giving, parties, baking cookies, eating particular foods, seeing Christmas lights, and more. Which of these traditions you choose to maintain largely depends on your family’s specific preferences. For example, if you have young children, you might want to go with a Christmas theme for decorations like nativity sets. On the other hand, if you have teenagers in the family, a more grown-up approach might be more suitable. It also depends on how much time you spend decorating and if you want to include your pets in the festivities.
2. Winter Cleaning Checklist.
A simple checklist will help you stay on top of your cleaning schedule when it comes to getting ready for winter. This will make it easier to see where you need to focus your cleaning efforts and allow you to take advantage of the shorter days by getting more done each day. Here are some cleaning areas that might require extra attention during the winter months:
1. Windows– When it comes to windows, winter is the perfect time to inspect and clean them. This is a great way to ensure they’re ready for the cold weather and prevent water damage from frozen precipitation.
2. Basement– If you have a basement, you know it’s prone to developing mildew if you don’t keep it clean. Winter is a great time to clean your basement, as it’s one of the few seasons in which you can open the windows without worrying about letting in excess moisture.
3. Gutters– While cleaning your windows, you should also look at your gutters. Dirt and debris tend to accumulate in the gutters during winter, so it’s essential to check them and clean them to avoid having them clog.
3. New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthy Home.
A few quick New Year’s resolutions can help ensure that your home stays healthy despite the shorter days and potential for higher levels of mold and mildew. To start, it’s a good idea to check your roof’s condition and ensure it isn’t leaking. This will also help keep your home cooler, which can help you save on your energy bills during the winter months. You should also ensure your home’s air conditioning and heating systems are in good working order before winter sets in. This will allow you to adjust the temperature as needed, which can help lower your utility bills during the winter months. In addition, you should clean your air conditioner and ensure it’s functioning correctly. This will help you keep your home clean and free of dust.
4. Check Your Heating System.
Your heating system works hard all year round, so you should check its functionality before the winter hits. This will help you avoid potential problems and know that your family is prepared for winter weather. If you’re unsure how to check your heating system, you can contact a contractor and have them walk you through the process. If you discover any problems, you’ll want to address them as soon as possible, as they can lead to more severe issues if left unchecked. In addition to checking your heating system, you should ensure your water pipes are adequately insulated. This will help protect your family from potential water damage caused by frozen pipes, which can be a severe hazard during the winter months.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve read this guide, you should be better prepared for the upcoming winter and holiday seasons. From cleaning your home to checking your heating system, there are a few simple things you can do now to make the winter easier on everyone. By preparing now, you’ll save time and effort and help ensure your family stays healthy and safe throughout the winter.
