DIY Guide to Cleaning Out Your Attic

Happy March! You know what that means: the days are longer, the pollen count is higher, and the spring cleaning season has arrived again. Whether you’re moving, remodeling, or decluttering, finally get around to tidying your attic this spring cleaning season. The time to part with what hasn’t seen the light of day since the 1980s is now. Following these easy steps, this seemingly daunting task can be completed in an afternoon!

1. Grab a Cold Drink and Switch on Some Rocking Tunes

You’re going to need it. Maybe listen to music from the decade you last cleaned out your attic, turning your attic into a time machine. The cold beverage will help you keep you cool, especially in poorly ventilated, stuffy spaces like an attic. If you can turn cleaning into something a bit more lively and fun it’ll go by in no time!

2. Make Three Piles: Keep, Donate, and Trash

Organizing your things into these three categories helps keep the cleaning process more orderly. When deciding what pile to put something in, consider the following:

• When was the last time you used it?
• If you moved, would it really be worth taking with you?
• Is it broken? Is it worth keeping it to fix?
• Does it really add anything to your happiness?

If you answered yes to any of the previous questions, get rid of it. Be honest with yourself! The trash and donation piles can be easily differentiated. If someone would spend money on the thing, donate it. If someone would not spend money on it, throw it out. Some local Palm Beach charities that accept donation include Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill, Salvation Army, and the Homeless Coalition. You’re doing a good deed by donating and reclaiming your attic space at the same time! Win, win! If you have a big attic with a ton of junk, it may be worth renting a dumpster for all the trash you’ve purged. Once you are left only with the keep pile, integrate your long lost treasures back into your home. Alternatively, pack them up in clear plastic containers, so you will easily be able to see the contents of each box next time you’re feeling inspired to clean out your attic. They’re also water and bug proof.

3. Sweep, Vacuuming, Dust, Repeat

Grab another drink and make sure you’re wearing some old clothing you don’t care about! This step gets messy. Get ahold of a good vacuum that not only has a large storage bin but that you won’t mind using for dirty places like your attic. If it’s particularly dusty up there, run by a home goods store and buy a few dust masks (especially for anyone who has slight allergies). Make sure to really get into the corners where the dust bunnies hide.

4. Check for Pests, Molds, and Water Damage

The trifecta of attic issues. Gone unchecked, any one of these issues can result in a very expensive mess. These problems should be addressed as soon as possible especially if you are trying to sell your home. Look up a local exterminator, mold remediator, or water remover if you run into any serious problems, as some issues are best left to the professionals.

5. Contact Meehan’s Family Moving

Now that you’re left with just the stuff you like, contact Meehan’s Family Moving or call 561-904-6000 to move it to your new home whether it’s across the county or across the country. For 50 years, our family-owned moving business has reduced the stress of moving for thousands of families. Contact us for a free, no obligation quote today. Putting the customer first is our main priority, and we are excited to hear from you. Not convinced? Read our shining reviews from past clients.