![Couple posing while spring cleaning, for a blog post promoting tips for a pain free spring cleaning session by Sport & Spine Physical Therapy in Wittenberg, Wisconsin.](https://sportspinewi.com/wp-content/uploads/Blog-Header-1.jpg)
It’s spring cleaning season
As spring rolls around in Central Wisconsin, it’s the perfect opportunity to freshen up our living spaces with some good ol’ spring cleaning. While some of us eagerly embrace the challenge, others may approach it with trepidation. What many may not realize is that the highest risk of injury often lurks within the comfort of our own homes. From pesky muscle strains to unexpected falls, the potential hazards are aplenty. But fear not! We’ve gathered a selection of tips tailored to minimize these risks and ensure a safe and fruitful spring cleaning experience. Follow these spring cleaning safety suggestions to safeguard yourself and make this season of renewal a productive one!
Tips for pain free spring cleaning
1. Do not rush because you are tired or in a hurry.
This is really the most basic spring cleaning safety tip, and all the other ones, at least to a certain degree, stem from this one. Spring cleaning can be tiring work. Do not forget safety even if you have worked hard all day and want to get done. The better thing to do when you are exhausted is to stop and take a break, drink a glass of water, sit under a nice cool fan, and rest instead of being unsafe.
2. Be careful moving large pieces of furniture and appliances.
Use proper lifting technique, keeping your back straight and lifting with your legs. Also, wear shoes when moving heavy items so you don’t hurt your toes. Finally, if you feel it is just too heavy and you can’t find someone else to do it for you, just don’t move it. It won’t be the end of the world to just clean around it. Always have spring cleaning safety in mind.
3. Be safe while on ladders and step stools. ![Woman on ladder working on spring cleaning by Sport & Spine Physical Therapy in Wittenberg, Wisconsin](//sportspinewi.com/wp-content/plugins/a3-lazy-load/assets/images/lazy_placeholder.gif)
When doing a task, such as washing windows, where you need to be on a ladder use extreme caution. Do not lean too far to either side. A good rule of thumb is that your belly button should not go beyond the sides of the ladder. Also, have someone available to hold the ladder steady for you if possible, and make sure before you step on them that the rungs are not wet, and you are wearing non-skid shoes.
4. Be careful when walking on wet surfaces.
This spring cleaning safety tip is really important every time you clean. Everyone knows how easy it is to slip on a wet floor. Make sure you take the proper precautions to keep from falling. Also, make sure others in your family, including children, are also warned of the wet floor to keep them safe. You may need to block small children’s access to wet floors because they just don’t understand not to run and slide on them.
5. Keep stairs, landings, and walkways clear of boxes, bags, and other clutter.
Spring cleaning is a great time to de-clutter your home, but you need to make sure all the boxes and bags of stuff you are getting rid of don’t cause a safety concern. Make sure you place them outside walkways and especially away from steps and stairs where someone may trip on them.
6. Don’t carry too much stuff at once, especially on stairs.
During spring cleaning you will also probably go up and down your stairs a lot carrying things if you live in a home with stairs. Make sure you keep a hand free to hold onto the stair railing. Also, whether you have stairs or not, always make sure you can see over the load you are carrying so you do not trip.
We are here to help
As you embark on your spring cleaning journey armed with our practical tips, remember that your well-being is our top priority. If you encounter any aches, pains, or injuries along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced team at Sport & Spine. We are here to support you on your path to a healthier and happier lifestyle. Click here to request an appointment and let us help you stay on track to enjoy a revitalized home and a rejuvenated body this spring!