P.s. Packing cubes, a must for minimalist travelers like me, effortlessly streamline suitcase chaos, keeping belongings compact and organized. Consider different colors for family members or each day of the week for ultimate simplicity! Here is a link to the ones we love- they are great quality and nice looking too!
From the upcoming Shabbos Nachamu and beyond, many of us may be planning on going away, be it for a weekend or an extended stay.
Preparing your home before you leave is crucial to ensure a worry-free trip and a pleasant return.
Here's a comprehensive checklist to help you get everything in order before you embark on your well-deserved break:
1. Use What You Have: Avoid doing a big shopping before you leave. Instead, try to use up the perishable items in your fridge, freezer, and pantry. Not only will this prevent food wastage, but it will also help you clear out space for a fresh start when you return.
2. Unplug and Rest Your Fridge and Freezer: If you're going away for an extended period (more than a few days), consider unplugging your fridge and freezer. Giving them a break can improve their efficiency and save energy while you're away. Don't forget to leave the doors open so air can get through.
3. Clean the Fridge and Freezer: if you are going away only for a few days, empty the fridge and freezer of all perishable items. Wipe down the interior to ensure it's clean and fresh, preventing any funky odors from developing while you're gone.
4. Thoroughly Clean Bathrooms and Toilets: Before leaving, make sure to thoroughly clean all bathrooms and toilets in your home. If you prefer not to clean the toilets as you are leaving, clean them earlier in the day, and lock all the toilets except one. This way, you can easily clean the remaining one right before you leave.
5. Empty and Clean Garbage Bins: Dispose of all garbage and give the bins a good cleaning. Consider sprinkling them with bleach and leaving them in the bathroom to avoid unpleasant odors upon your return.
6. Clean Sinks and Drains: Wash all dishes and then clean the sinks and drains thoroughly. This will prevent any unpleasant smells from lingering in the kitchen while you're away.
7. Fresh Bedding and Protection: Wash, dry and reset all beds before you leave. Coming home to clean beds will add to your comfort after a trip. If you're going away for an extended period, consider covering the beds with a large sheet, or (plastic) tablecloth to protect them from dust.
8. Unplug Unnecessary Electronics: Save energy and reduce potential risks by unplugging any unnecessary electronics before leaving.
9. Secure Your Valuables: Either hide your valuables securely within your home or entrust them to a trustworthy friend or neighbor for safekeeping. This precaution will safeguard your valuable belongings from potential theft or damage.
10. Store Outdoor Furniture: If you have outdoor furniture, bring it inside or store it in a safe place. This will prevent any damage caused by weather or potential theft while you're away.
11. Tend to Laundry: Make sure all your laundry is taken care of before leaving. Ensure that no wet or damp items are left behind, as they may develop unpleasant odors or mold.
12. Keep Washing Machine, Dryer, and Dishwasher Doors Open: Before leaving, remember to keep the doors of your washing machine, dryer, and dishwasher open. Leaving these appliances closed for extended periods can create a humid environment inside, promoting the growth of mold and unpleasant odors. Keeping them open allows for proper ventilation and helps prevent mold buildup.
13. Use Baking Soda in the Fridge: Before you leave, place an open box of baking soda in your freshly cleaned fridge. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer, absorbing any lingering odors and ensuring your fridge stays fresh while you're away.
14. Treat Sink Drains with Bleach: Following your thorough cleaning, pour some liquid bleach down the sink drains and leave it there just before departing. This simple step helps to prevent the buildup of unpleasant odors and keeps your drains fresh.
15. Arrange Garbage Pickup: For those with scheduled trash pickup, consider arranging for someone to roll the bins to the curb while you're away. You can hire a responsible teenager in your neighborhood to bring out your bins to the curb on garbage collection days and put them back afterward. This ensures your waste is taken care of even when you're not home.
16. Stock Up on Pantry Staples: Always keep your pantry stocked with essential items like pasta and tomato sauce. These versatile ingredients allow you to whip up a quick and satisfying meal, even if local stores are closed when you arrive home.
17. Arrange Shopping Assistance: If you anticipate arriving home late after your trip, consider arranging for a friend or family member to do some basic grocery shopping for you in advance. This thoughtful gesture ensures that you have fresh groceries and essentials waiting for you, saving you from the hassle of shopping as soon as you return.
18. Travel Documents and Electronics: For those traveling by air, double-check that you have all your travel documents, such as tickets, passports, and identification, securely stored in your travel bag. Additionally, charge all your electronic devices to stay connected during your journey.
19. Leave Spare Key with a Neighbor: Before you depart, leave an extra house key with a trusted neighbor or friend. This way, you have a backup plan in case you misplace or lose your key while away.
20. Secure Windows and Doors: Before you leave, double-check that all windows and doors are securely locked.
By following this checklist, you can leave your home with peace of mind, knowing that you've taken care of essential tasks before your departure. With your home in order, you can fully enjoy your bein hazmanim getaway, cherishing precious moments with your family!
Have a wonderful and rejuvenating break!
-Ellie
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