Some tips for the annual spring-cleaning ritual

Spring has arrived, and you know what that means — it's time to roll up your sleeves and begin the annual ritual of scrubbing, polishing, dusting and washing that's customary at this time of year.Here, just in time for spring-cleaning, are some of my favorite tips:

Polishing copper

Sometimes the most effective cleaning tools can be found right in your kitchen. Try this all-natural trick for making copper shine: Sprinkle the cut side of a lemon half with coarse salt, then rub it over the metal, which will soon begin to gleam.

Preventing mildew

When it comes to fighting mildew, prevention is key. To keep it from taking hold, be sure to keep surfaces clean, improve air circulation and reduce dampness (for example, don't leave wet towels lying around in a pile).

In poorly ventilated basements, install open shelving, use a dehumidifier and fan, and store items in airtight plastic containers with desiccants, such as silica gel. In musty closets, leave an incandescent light bulb on to help dry the air, or hang packets of desiccants.

Creating a cleaning bucket

Making your house shine can take a bit of effort, but gathering the supplies you need to clean can be a snap. For easier cleaning, fill a bucket with the basics: all-purpose and glass-cleaning sprays, scouring powder or baking soda, sponges, a toothbrush (for crevices), a squeegee, rubber gloves (hang them on the rim to dry), a scrub brush and terry-cloth towels. You'll have everything you need as you work your way from room to room. When you're through, store the bucket in the closet, and it will be ready the next time.

Removing wax

Softly glowing candles create ambience for a dinner party, but there's nothing charming about spilled wax. To remove it from tabletops, heat with a blow-dryer on the lowest setting for several seconds, then scrape up using the edge of a credit card. Buff away any remaining residue.

To remove from fabrics, use ice to freeze wax, or place the item in the freezer. Scrape off what you can, then use an oil solvent or mineral spirits to remove residue. Rinse with isopropyl alcohol, let dry, and wash with an enzyme detergent.

Cleaning a refrigerator

This task can seem like a daunting undertaking, but break it down into a few simple steps, and it becomes much more manageable. The first step is to wipe up spills immediately so surfaces won't become stained. Make it a habit to throw out old food once a week.