The holiday season is quickly on its way. It feels like stores are setting out themed displays earlier every year. Yet, at the same time, parties and other events seem to arrive before you know it, and there often isn’t enough time to prepare! With US Thanksgiving still on the horizon, it might not quite be the time to put up the tree but taking care of some preparations early and throughout the season will make things way easier on you and your budget.
Popular Mechanics has a few helpful tips to prep your home for the holiday season. This includes cleaning the microwave but not cleaning the stove – at least, don’t use the self-cleaning function days before an important dinner. This process can stress an ailing stove out and cause it to fail. Instead, manually clean with a some cleaner, or else, wait until the dinner is finished. Fridge use will also increase when multiple people are preparing their dishes simultaneously. So, follow Popular Mechanic’s cleaning guide using the link above. Before you start cooking away, check the accuracy of your oven’s temperature reading with an oven thermometer or a battery-powered infrared thermometer (that can also check your freezer, dryer, or any other heating or cooling appliance).
Plumbing is something that might not spring to mind when holiday preparations are brought up, but preventative maintenance is important, particularly this time of year. Pipes can burst from the drops in temperature, with water freezing and cracking them. Plus, increased traffic during meals and gatherings for Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, or a holiday office party puts a lot of pressure on drains and pipes. Word is, the day after American Thanksgiving, also known as Black Friday, is the busiest day for plumbing professionals! So, arrange an appointment for drain cleaning and plumbing services during the fall to make sure everything is working, and so that repairs are made before emergencies happen.
Safety check your home to suit the season: colder weather brings icy rain and snow, and this could lead to slips and painful falls. Get proper mats for the outside and inside of your doors and get a rack or other place for boots and shoes to dry. If you’re having kids over – especially if you don’t have them yourself – you’ll need to childproof your living areas, especially during hectic and loud gatherings where they might not be watched as closely.
Preparing for things early can help your wallet, too. Always keep an eye out for sales year-round for things you know you will need in the future – and jump on them. You might not need a new turkey roasting pan in July, but, hey, if it’s 50% cheaper, get it then. Getting the supplies you’ll need over time also spreads out spending among monthly budgets instead of piling it all on October, November, and December’s shoulders. The best time to buy decorations for any holiday is right after it’s occurred. Scan stores for clearance displays and store your Halloween lights and Thanksgiving turkey napkins for next year.
The holidays are much more enjoyable and relaxing when you plan ahead and take care of preparations over time!
