How To Clean Your Basement

Remove any dustcovers you have on stored items, shake the covers outside, then toss them in the washing machine. Wipe down the items that were covered.

Wipe down the exterior of the furnace and hot-water heater with a sponge or cloth dipped in warm, sudsy water or a solution of equal parts of vinegar and water.

Dust the light bulbs before replacing the fixtures.

Mix one gallon of warm water, one cup of ammonia, and one teaspoon of mild dishwashing liquid in a large bucket.

Place drop cloths on the floor.

Dip a natural sponge into the bucket and begin washing the walls, starting at the bottom and working your way up. Complete one wall at a time, working your way around the room.

If you find mold, scrub it with hot, soapy water. Rinse with a clean, wet rag and dry thoroughly.

If your basement has windows, combine one pint rubbing alcohol, two tablespoons clear ammonia, and two tablespoons dishwashing liquid. Dip a nylon-covered sponge into the solution and wash the windows. Rinse and buff dry.

Sprinkle the floor with baking soda to neutralize odor, then vacuum or sweep it up. Vacuum or sweep the stairs.

Gently vacuum any smoke detectors; this will keep them clear of dust, which affects their sensitivity. Also, replace their batteries.

Mop your floors. If you really want them to sparkle, go the extra mile and hand wash them. Use a damp—not wet—cloth. Begin at the edges and move across the floor using a small circular motion.

Put out a pan of clean clay cat litter to absorb moisture and odors.

Thank the Lord you won’t have to clean the basement again for a while.