Away With Clutter!

When a home is up for sale, the smart seller will keep clutter under control on a daily basis, recommends The Soap and Detergent Association (www.cleaning101.com). That way, if an unexpected buyer drops in, the house will be ready to show.

Clear off the kitchen and bathroom countertops, sorting and storing non-essentials in storage containers. Wipe all surfaces clean. Anything that will go back on the countertop should be wiped clean, too. In the kitchen, keep out only those appliances that are used every few days.

Don't let newspapers and mail pile up. Sort every day and discard what isn't needed. Place a few baskets in strategic locations around the house. When the real estate agent calls, the clutter that is an inevitable part of daily life can be quickly scooped up into the baskets and hidden away. And, get in the habit of making a nightly "sweep" just before bedtime.

(Excerpted from The Soap and Detergent Association's Cleanliness Facts)