Tips for Easy Party Prep and Cleanup

· Although using disposable utensils, glasses and plates for serving food and drinks can cut down on the time spent scrubbing dishes, it adds to the amount of garbage guests throw away. Instead of purchasing multiple bulky trash bins, line collapsible laundry hampers (like the ones college kids use in their dorms) with garbage bags and place them around the party. These will work just as well as regular bins, but they’ll be easier to store until the next big event.

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· Guests can track outside dirt, food crumbs and other particles into the house, so it’s important to sweep and vacuum high-traffic areas where most of the socializing was done. An easy way to maximize the effects of vacuuming afterward is to use Febreze Carpet Deodorizing Powders. Simply sprinkle the powder on carpets before vacuuming, wait for a few minutes and then vacuum as usual. The powder cleans up to three times better than vacuuming alone, eliminates odors, and leaves behind a light, fresh scent.

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· While candles can add to the ambience of an event, it’s tough to clean out candleholders once the wax has melted down. To keep the wax from sticking, spray the inside of candleholders with cooking spray before setting the candle inside. The wax will easily slip out when it’s time to clean up.

· Flowers also add an instant touch of décor as table centerpieces, but grime can build up in the hard-to-reach areas of vases, making it difficult to keep them sparkling. After the party, dispose of the leftover water. Fill the vase with clean warm water and add two antacid tablets. Let the mixture sit for a moment, swirl the water and rinse out the vase. This will lift bouquet residue with less hassle.

· After placing tablecloths, cut white parchment or butcher paper to size and place on top of each table, then set accordingly. The paper will catch any food, and the waxy underside will help prevent any minor spills from leaking through to the tablecloth, meaning there’s less chance of ruining table linens with food and drink stains.

 

Jessica Renee