December is a short and jam-packed month and so is our list of things to do around the house. In fact, if you decide to delay tackling them until early January, we won’t tell.

1. Freshen up your garbage disposal. Our kitchens work hard during the holiday season and that includes the garbage disposal. Over time, food can build up leading to stinky smells and a slimy mess. To clean it, pour baking soda in and then add vinegar to fizz. Once you’ve given it a minute, rinse with boiling water. Consider grinding ice cubes to help clean the disposals’ blades, and then add lemon, lime or orange peels for a refreshing scent.
2. Clean your range hood filter. One of the more overlooked workhorses in our homes, your range hood filters out smells, smoke and moisture. Keep it working well by choosing one month a year where you switch out the old filter for new. More information on doing this task can be found here.
3. Sharpen your knives. Kind of counterintuitive we know, but dull knives cause more injuries than sharp ones. If you’re using a dull knife, you’ll inevitably have to use more pressure to cut and have less control causing jagged slices of food (or fingers). So, this is your reminder to sharpen your knives before carving your favorite meats this holiday season.
4. Complete a quick outdoor safety check. Walk around your property and evaluate your home for safety concerns such as burnt-out lights and cracked areas in your concrete walkways that could be a tripping hazard. If there are bushes that are overgrown, consider cutting them back asap. If a drop in temperatures is in the forecast, consider whether ice prevention or abatement is needed as it can be a major hazard for delivery people and visitors alike.
5. Inspect your hoses for leaks. It’s a good idea to check the hoses on your appliances – dishwasher, refrigerator, freezer, and clothes washer – to ensure there are no cuts or other impediments to their operation and that leaks aren’t present. It only takes a few minutes and preventing or mitigating damage from appliance hose leakage is time well spent.