No one ever said that maintaining a home was easy, but it’s worth it in the long run. By taking care of small tasks every month, you can prevent more extensive and more expensive problems from happening down the road. This article will outline a checklist of monthly charges that will help keep your home in good condition. So without further ado, here’s your monthly home maintenance checklist:
1. Test Your Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are an essential part of any home safety plan, and they should be tested monthly to make sure they’re working correctly. A working smoke alarm can save your life in the event of a fire. Moreover, trying them regularly will help ensure that they’re always in good working condition.
2. Check Your Home’s Exterior
It’s essential to inspect your home’s exterior monthly, looking for any signs of damage or wear and tear. This includes cracks in the foundation, loose shingles, peeling paint, etc. If you spot any problems, make sure to address them as soon as possible.
3. Clean Your Gutters
Gutters should be cleaned at least once a month and more often if you live in an area with lots of trees. Clogged drains can lead to water damage on your roof and siding, so it’s essential to keep them clear.
4. Check Your Appliances
Appliances like your refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, and washing machine should be checked monthly for any signs of wear and tear. This includes things like leaks, cracks, or rust. If you spot any problems, make sure to call a professional for repairs.
5. Inspect Your Plumbing
It’s a good idea to inspect your plumbing monthly for any leaks or other problems. This includes checking under sinks, in the basement, and around any exposed pipes. If you spot any issues, make sure to call a plumber right away.
6. Clean Your Dryer Vent
One of the essential monthly tasks that often gets overlooked is cleaning the dryer vent. Clogged dryer vents can cause several problems, including decreased dryer efficiency, increased energy bills, and fire hazards. It’s therefore essential to clean your dryer vent at least once a month.
7. Get the Carpets Cleaned
Carpets should be vacuumed at least once a week and more often if you have pets. However, they should also be professionally cleaned at least once a month. Carpet cleaning will help remove dirt, dust, and other allergens from your home, making it a healthier place to live.
8. Dust Your Home
Dust accumulates quickly, so it’s important to dust your home at least once a month. This includes furniture, shelves, blinds, and any other surfaces where dust can settle. When brushing, use a damp cloth to prevent the dust from just floating back into the air.
9. Fridge Cleaning
The fridge is one appliance that needs to be cleaned regularly. This is because food can spill and cause bacteria to grow. Aim to clean your fridge at least once a month and more often if it’s filthy.
10. Washing Your Windows
Windows should be washed at least once a month and more often if they’re filthy. This will help remove fingerprints, smudges, and other dirt from the glass. Moreover, it’ll also let in more natural light, making your home feel brighter and more inviting.
11. Declutter Your Home
It’s vital to declutter your home regularly to prevent it from getting too cluttered. This includes getting rid of old clothes, magazines, and other items you no longer need. Once a month should be sufficient, but you can do it more often if necessary.
12. Do a Deep Clean
In addition to your regular cleaning routine, it’s also essential to do a deep clean of your home at least once a month. This means cleaning things like baseboards, vents, and light fixtures that are often overlooked. A deep clean will help keep your home looking its best.
Bonus Tip: Inspect Your Fire Extinguisher
It’s essential to inspect your fire extinguisher monthly to ensure it’s still in working order. This includes checking the pressure gauge and making sure there are no leaks. It’s also a good idea to keep it in an easily accessible place so you can grab it quickly in the event of a fire.
If you want to maintain a healthy home, it’s essential to keep up with the monthly tasks. These tasks can be done in less than an hour and will help you save money on repairs later. Make sure to put these on your monthly to-do list. We hope this helps keep your home in tip-top shape!
