7 Spring Cleaning Moves that Can Save You Money

By Woman's Day Staff


1. Use less.

When cleaning with a spray, a small amount typically does the job. Avoid product waste by spritzing the cleaning cloth instead of the surface. Photo by Getty Images.


2. Help the fridge stay cool.

The refrigerator can be one of the least energy-efficient appliances. Vacuum the coils (located along the front bottom or in the back) about twice a year to remove any dust or dirt-and save up to 30% annually. Cut cold air loss by minimizing the time the fridge and freezer doors are open. Also, avoid storing things on top. This prevents heat from escaping, making it harder for the machine to remain cold.

ANNUAL SAVINGS $16.50*


Related: Discover 10 things you never have to pay for.


3. Shine a brighter light

The dust on a dirty lightbulb can absorb up to 50% of the light it's emitting, causing you to switch on another lamp in the room, doubling your electricity usage. Rub cooled-off bulbs with a damp rag once a month or when they seem dimmer.

ANNUAL SAVINGS $10


4. Don't overlook the oven

A soiled stove can be an energy pit. Keeping the interior, rangetop burners and reflectors clean can save up to 10% by redirecting heat more efficiently, warming food faster and more evenly. Wipe away crumbs and caked-on grease with a sprinkle of baking soda and warm, soapy water.

ANNUAL SAVINGS $2.40 (gas), $4 (electric)


Related: See the 10 dirtiest spots in your kitchen.


5. Freshen your bed

You can add five years to the life of your mattress by vacuuming it once a season to eliminate dust mites, bacteria and allergens. To further deodorize, mix 1 cup baking soda with 4 drops lavender essential oil in a jar, and shake well. Sprinkle the mixture over the mattress and let it sit for an hour. This will draw any moisture or dirt to the surface. When finished, vacuum up the excess.

ANNUAL SAVINGS $33


6. Wash air filters

Dusty air-conditioning screens are bad for your health and your energy bill. Luckily, cleaning or replacing them can save you anywhere from 5% to 15% per month. These filters are found in the pull-down grille on the front of a window unit or, with central air systems, in the main ceiling, wall or floor vent (look for one register larger than the others throughout the house). If your filter is washable, unhook the vent cover, remove and soak the filter in warm water for an hour. Let dry before putting it back. Cardboard-framed disposable filters for central AC units should be replaced every other month.

ANNUAL SAVINGS Up to $30


Related: Learn 15 clever uses for household items.


7. Clear laundry lint

Dryer blockages cause the machine to work 50% to 75% harder. Clean the lint trap after every load by pulling out the screen and brushing with a dry cloth. Clothing fibers or dryer sheets can also coat the moisture sensor electrodes (two parallel metal strips along the inside wall of the machine), throwing off the damp-to-dry measurement and producing an underdried load. To clean (about once a season), wipe them down with the scrubber side of a dry sponge.

ANNUAL SAVINGS Up to $187.50

*Savings are based on national averages and may vary depending upon several factors, including electricity or gas costs in a certain area.


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