The holidays are a fond memory, and spring has not yet sprung. Still, February is all about love, so now is a good time to show your house a little. Don’t worry though, these tips are typically something we suggest tackling only once or twice a year.

1. Deep Clean the Kitchen
   1. Dishwasher filter. Many don’t realize that their dishwasher likely has a filter and if you this is new information for you, it’s time. Refer to your dishwasher’s manufacturer for information on how to do this.
   2. Garbage disposal. Hopefully you know there are limitations to what your garbage disposal can handle, and that it requires some love a couple times a year. Here is a non-toxic way to keep it clean.
   3. If you cook regularly, there’s a decent chance that your oven is a mess. Splatter and drips from food are common and often cake on both the interior of the oven and the glass. Martha Stewart has some tips on how to clean with items you likely have on hand.
2. Annual Bathroom Upkeep
   1. At least once a year, take the time to clear out your medicine cabinet and appropriately dispose of out-of-date medicines. Wipe down shelves, make note of anything that needs to be replaced and give yourself a fresh start to the new year.
   2. Check the caulk around your tub, shower, and vanity. If it is showing wear or is gone, don’t wait to replace it. Here Dap shows you how to do this. It doesn’t take long for water to cause damage, and caulking can help protect your investment.
   3. Evaluate your room for dust, mold or mildew buildup. Especially in the winter, our homes are closed up tighter than in other seasons. If you notice any mold/mildew build-up ensure your ventilation systems are functioning properly and if they’re not, replace them ASAP. Be sure to wipe down the grates of the bathroom fans so operation isn’t impeded and moisture is funneled out as intended.
3. Be Fire Smart
   1. Take a look at your fire extinguisher to make sure you don’t notice anything amiss and that the locking pin and tamper seal are intact. You can always contact your local fire department if you have questions about using your fire extinguisher, but if it’s been many years since you purchased it you might consider a replacement.
   2. Change the batteries in your fire alarms and carbon monoxide monitors annually. If it’s been a year since you last replaced these, do it. This simple and quick task like this can save your life.
   3. Similarly, if it’s been a minute since you’ve cleaned out your dryer vent, now would be the time. A significant number of dryer fires are caused by clogged dryer vents and it only takes a few minutes to reduce your risk.