Summer Party Cleaning Guide
Summer weather is already here and finding an excuse to throw a backyard party isn’t hard. Hot dogs and burgers on a grill, ice cold drinks, and friends and family make the effort of throwing a summer party worth the time and energy. With summer cookout and party season getting into full swing, here are some pro-tips to help you impress your guests and make party cleanup a snap.
Temperature Check
Before the festivities can begin try to get a feel for the weather. Estimate how hot it will be so that you’ll have enough shade and refreshments to help everyone keep their cool. Most importantly, check the weather for storms and any other issues that would immediately bring the party inside.
Deep-Clean Your Fridge
Yes…clean your refrigerator BEFORE the party! This may not seem like the best way to take advantage of that crucial pre-party planning time, but you’ll be freeing up space to accommodate food from guests. This allows food to be refrigerated and served in small batches so it stays safe and looks appetizing. Best of all, you’ll have plenty of fridge and freezer space for storing yummy leftovers.
Clean and Organize Patio
Most patio furniture can be cleaned easily with soapy water, a hose, and a stiff brush. However, patio cushions and pillows may need special attention. If they’re coming out for the first time in a while, be sure to get them into fresh air and full sunlight to address any mustiness that may have set in over the winter. Don’t forget to inspect for any summer stains you may have missed before putting them into storage. Lastly, go the extra mile and add some other outdoor-appropriate decor to spruce up the area. Now, you’re ready to lounge outside.
Get Ready for Grilling
Summer equals backyard parties, barbeque, and numerous vacation spots. Are we right? Juicy burgers, hotdogs with all the trimmings, even grilled steaks and veggies… hungry yet?
What’s not so yummy is a dirty grill. Ideally, you should clean your grill after every use, but definitely clean it if you haven’t touched it in a while. Turn the grill on and allow it to warm up. Dip half a lemon, cut side down, in salt. Rub the salted lemon on the warm grill grates. This will cut through any grease on the grill and the salt will act as a scrubbing agent to remove bits of stuck-on food. Switch the grill off, let it cool down a bit and wipe the grates clean.
Happy partying!