Defy the Dirt: The Ultimate Spring Mud Challenge

Ah, March. The month that confuses us all. Will it be warm? Will it be cold? Is the ground frozen or a muddy, soupy mess? Rain? Snow? it doesn't seem to matter where you live in the United States, this month is all over the map!

One thing that seems to be consistent every year is the MUD. It's a never ending battle. Mix in the tiny, gritty rocks or the salt that leaves a white film on everything from the icy walkways. You know what I'm talking about. You sweep, vacuum and mop, turn around and still find those tiny bits you missed. And if your have pets, children or husbands that farm, it seems like a losing battle.

I've got some tips that will help you out. Let's  make it feel less like the ultimate challenge.

1. RUGS. Rugs can be your best friend. But not all are created equal. Choose either the heavier made rubber rugs that you can rinse off easily or rugs that can be thrown into the washing machine. The small, lighter made ones tend to bunch up easily when walked over often or when pets zoom thru. Place a rug on the outside of your entrances, and one on the inside. Having a second one a little further in can catch any mud and dirt that lingers on the bottom of feet, socks etc.
2. Keep either a stick vacuum or smaller handheld one close for cleaning dried mud quickly. It's also a good idea to keep a bottle of your favorite carpet spot treatment spray handy for quick stain removal on the rugs. Having a mop with the spray trigger would be good to keep the hard floor tidied up as well.
3. Have a rug or towel on the floor for shoes to sit on as they dry. Something that's easy to shake out and throw in the wash.
4. This is pretty self explanatory but a shoes off at the door policy is a big one.
5. Have a towel by the door to wipe puppy paws off with.

Although we can't eliminate this spring-time challenge, we can limit some of the stress. Doing small things will help you stay on top of the mess. Are there any other good tips that I didn't mention?     - Carrie