Can you taste that? The sweet smell of flowers & fresh cut grass, the warm breeze of a sunny day, the refreshing taste of your favourite cold beverage? That’s right, summer is approaching, and it’s time to get to opening the cottage! Whether you have been cottaging for more years than you can remember or a fresh cottage owner, we have the perfect checklist and helpful tips to ensure that opening the cottage is nothing less than a success. Follow these and you’ll be sipping something cold at the end of the dock watching the loons go by in no time!
Cottage Opening Checklist
- Check the Property: Walk around your property to check for any winter damage or signs of pests. Inspect the dock, watercraft, and boat launch for safety.
Check the Utilities: Before turning on utilities, inspect power, gas, and water for any issues. Check electrical outlets and switches, propane tanks or gas lines, and plumbing.
Clean and Dust: Clean your cottage thoroughly, including all surfaces, kitchen, and bedding. It has been closed up for the better part of the last 6 months, it’s a great time for a thorough spring cleaning. Stock up on cleaning supplies, toilet paper, and garbage bags.
Stock Up on Essentials: Bring essentials like food, drinks, bug spray, and sunscreen. No need to be eaten alive or burnt to a crisp on the first weekend. Don’t forget to bring water with you to stay hydrated too!
Check the Fire Extinguishers: Ensure all fire extinguishers are in working order and replace if necessary.
Test Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test alarms and replace batteries if needed.
Prepare for the Outdoors: Clean up your yard, trim bushes, and clear any debris. You are going to want to clear out those piles of leaves as soon as possible to lessen the amount of mosquitos before they are in full swing.
Check the Boat and Safety Gear: Inspect your boat and safety gear, including life jackets and paddles. Make sure everything you will need for those first few rides is ready as soon as you are.
Enjoy the Season: Finally, relax and enjoy the beautiful season ahead.
Make opening the cottage a breeze this season and walk through each of the items on the checklist. Don’t worry this summer is going to be a good one, we can feel it. Get your floaties ready, stock the cooler, and let’s start making some great memories to share around the fire in the years to come!