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Though it’s the shortest month of the year, there’s still plenty to be done in February, including organizing drawers and closets, and preparing last year’s taxes and this year’s gardens. Warm weather will be here before we know it, which is why now’s also the time to repair window screens, clean garden tools, and prepare for another season of outdoor living.
1. Plan this year’s garden.
While it is too early to sow a garden in most parts of the country, it’s not too early to start planning one. Now is a great time to order seed catalogs, start choosing the flowers and vegetables for this summer’s garden beds, and think about your garden layout. Starting seeds indoors in February will give them just enough time to sprout and mature for transplanting come planting season. Be sure to check the first and last frost dates for your USDA hardiness zone so that you’ll time your starts correctly.
2. Store more in the kitchen.
However large or small our kitchens may be, they never seem to have enough storage space, or enough horizontal space on which to meal prep. Take back your counter space by thinking vertically: Hang a pegboard on which you can corral tools and pans, or build high shelves (or use the space above kitchen cabinets) to stow small or less frequently used items.
3. Start getting your taxes together.
While you’re in an organizing frame of mind, start collecting bank and investment statements, charitable contribution receipts, and everything else you or your accountant will need to prepare your taxes. This is particularly important if you sold or purchased a home last year, or if you made updates to your home that entitle you to a tax credit or deduction.
4. Clean your cleaning tools.
Your cleaning tools and appliances probably got quite a workout during the holidays. Take steps now to keep from spreading dirt throughout your house: Change your vacuum filter, launder your mop head in the washing machine, wash and dry your broom bristles, and replace all of your dish sponges. While you’re at it, do an inventory of your cleaning sprays and restock supplies (check our roundup of eco-friendly cleaning supplies for some terrific nontoxic options). Now you’re ready for spring cleaning!
5. Improve your home theater.
Wouldn’t you rather stream a movie at home than venture out to the theater in the bitter cold? Yeah, us too. Spend some time this month turning your TV room into a home theater your family will love: Perhaps upgrade your wired speakers to a wireless surround sound system, buy a couple of end tables that double as TV trays, and roll out a laughably large, family-size 10-foot by 10-foot fleece blanket. The best part? You can hit the “pause” button any time you want.
6. Carve out a place to hang your coats.
By midwinter, our entryways are usually overrun with boots, coats, and scarves, and gloves. Clean yours up by converting a closet into a mudroom: Remove the door and fit the interior space with shelves, cubbies, and a storage bench. For a less drastic change, buy a new coat rack or a new organizer for boots and shoes.
7. Check the washer hose for wear.
Be honest, when was the last time you looked behind your washing machine? When a washing machine leaks, the culprit is sometimes a cracked washer hose. It’s a good idea to check these connectors periodically to ensure that they are not worn or broken. This inspection involves moving the washer away from the wall and giving the washing machine hose a once-over. If you see signs of wear you’ll want to replace the hose but before you do, be sure to shut off the water and the power to the machine.
8. Mend window screens.
Spring is on the way, and that means you’ll be opening the windows again to get some fresh air into the house. Before you do, check for torn or missing window screens and replace or repair any that need it. If you notice discolored wood around the windows, it could be a sign of moisture or rot. Make a note of any damaged areas and identify the source of the leak in order to prevent additional damage. Repair the rotted wood along the interior or exterior of the house as the weather allows.
9. Clean and sharpen your gardening tools.
Before giving them a workout come spring, take a little time to recondition and clean your garden tools now. While you are at it, be sure to sharpen dull blades, and repair broken tools and handles. Tools with moving parts, like shears and loppers, should be properly oiled to keep them in peak condition.
10. Flip your mattress.
Flipping your mattress every 6 months makes it last longer. By changing the orientation of the mattress, you’ll distribute weight and wear more evenly and thereby prevent it from sagging. Keep in mind that not all mattresses can be flipped. If that’s true of the one you have, rotate it 180 degrees instead.
While your mattress is on your mind, take the time now to throw the mattress pad or protector into the wash (none of us wash those things as often as they need it!), and clean the mattress itself by vacuuming or steam cleaning it. Once all layers of your bed are clean, you’ll sleep like a baby.
