House cleaning can be a tedious and time-consuming task, especially if you have kids, pets, or extended family. It can be especially cumbersome if you have a large home or like to cook complicated meals. However, cleaning is essential to maintaining a healthy and organized home, so don’t put it off any longer.
Whether you live in an apartment in Round Rock, TX, or a house in New Haven, CT, use these 31 expert house cleaning tips to tidy your home with ease.
1. Make a list of tasks from most to least important
The first step to cleaning your home is to make a list of all the cleaning tasks you want to complete. Try your best to base them on importance, and be as thorough as possible. This first step will help you stay organized and focused while cleaning.
2. Prevent dirt from entering your home
One of the best ways to reduce your workload is to prevent dirt and dust from entering your home in the first place. “Try adjusting your lifestyle to accommodate a cleaner home,” says Nidia Wolff, owner of Nidia’s Cleaning Services. “Have a pair of house shoes at the door and switch your shoes out when you get home.”
3. Keep supplies in a cleaning caddy
Before starting your cleaning, gather all the necessary supplies, such as cleaning products, gloves, rags, and a vacuum cleaner. This will help you work more efficiently.
If you have the budget, consider assembling your cleaning products in a cleaning caddy. “This way, you can get simple tasks done quickly and easily without having to look around for necessary supplies,” notes the team at HomePlus cleaning.
An alternative to a cleaning caddy is a cleaning apron. “Use an apron with pockets for cleaning cloths and loops to hang cleaning solutions,” says Joe Walsh founder and CEO of Green Clean Maine. “This way, you don’t have to constantly retrace your steps in search of that bottle of cleaner.”
4. Purchase microfiber cloths
Microfiber cloths are a must-have for any cleaning project. They’re great for cleaning because they’re lint-free, absorbent, and reusable. Use them whenever you can, especially for dusting.
The team at Dawn To Dusk Cleaning suggests using a microfiber cloth to clean your houseplants. “Live plants improve the air quality in your home, so make sure to keep them clean,” they say. “Cleaning them is easy. Simply wipe the leaves carefully with a microfiber cloth every week.”
5. Prioritize natural cleaning products
Natural cleaning products are another essential tool for any project, as many commercial cleaning products contain harmful chemicals that can harm you and the environment. You can even make them at home if you have a few extra minutes. “A simple mixture of white vinegar and water is excellent for removing stains and cleaning surfaces,” says the team at Custom Cleaning of the Treasure Coast Maid Service. “Baking soda is also a versatile cleaner you can use to scrub surfaces, deodorize, and remove tough stains.”
6. Use an enzyme-based cleaning solution
Many people stock a familiar assortment of cleaning products for the floor, sink, counters, and toilets. However, it’s important to pack an extra product for tough messes.
“If you’re a DIY cleaner and keeping bugs, bacteria, and viruses out of your house is important, consider adding a multipurpose insecticide and disinfectant to your arsenal,” advises the team at Sterifab. “These products can kill small insects, dust mites, mold, and bacteria on contact, without leaving dangerous, long-lasting chemicals.”
Enzyme-based cleaning solutions are especially useful for stains. . “First, soak up the stain with a cloth,” suggests Tom Davis from Absolutely Clean. “Then, liberally spray the cleaner and let it sit for three to five minutes before wiping it up.”
7. Use a homemade cleaning solution to remove stains
Many people struggle to clean wood stains and water marks and often turn to hazardous wood cleaners. However, there are alternatives. “An effective, natural alternative for wood cleaners is vinegar or lemon mixed with olive oil,” says the team at Lily’s Cleaning Inc.
To prepare the mixture, gather the following items:
- Spray bottle
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cup of white vinegar
- 1 tbsp of olive oil
Now you’re ready to tackle tough stains around your house without worrying about harming indoor air quality.
8. Make your bed first thing in the morning
Now that your supplies are in order, you can establish healthy cleaning habits. Making your bed is a great place to start for most people. It can help keep your bedroom looking tidy and organized; plus, it only takes a few minutes and sets a positive tone for the rest of your day. You can take this momentum into another project that may require more effort.
9. Use a pillowcase to clean your ceiling fan
To clean ceiling fans, “start by slipping a pillowcase over one blade of the fan at a time and use your hand to rub them clean,” says the team at Right Touch Residential Cleaning. “For deeper cleaning, use a vacuum cleaner or duster attachment to remove any remaining particles or debris between the blades.”
10. Tidy up more often if you have pets
Keeping your home tidy with pets can be difficult and requires consistent effort and effective organization. “Start by designating specific areas for your pets to play and sleep in,” says the team at Naturalcare Cleaning of Houston. “Also, get a handle on pet hair by establishing daily cleaning routines and purchasing specific cleaning products.”
Additionally, the most important thing you can do is clean regularly and thoroughly, particularly if your pets leave stains or paw prints. “Don’t allow pet stains and smells to contaminate your home, especially your carpets and rugs,” says the team at Citrus Fresh Carpet Cleaning of Atlanta. “Pro carpet cleaners can make those sights and smells disappear.”
A professional cleaning company will also help your rug or carpet last longer and look better.
11. Mop your floors at least once every two weeks
Mopping your floors is an essential part of keeping a clean home. “Mix a solution of warm water and floor cleaner in a bucket, dip the mop in, and wring it thoroughly to avoid leaving excess water on the floor,” suggests the team at PCT Clean, premium cleaning services in Kennesaw, GA. “Mop the floor in sections, rinse the mop frequently to remove dirt and grime, and allow the floor to air dry.”
You don’t have to mop frequently unless you consistently make messes on the floor. Once every two weeks is enough for most homes.
12. Pay attention to frequently-missed areas
It’s vital to make a checklist for your frequently-missed areas and surfaces throughout your home, such as the tops of doors, cabinets, and the corners of your rooms. “Make a list of areas you often miss and make sure to give them a thorough cleaning every week,” says the team at Almeida’s Cleaning. “This will help keep your home looking its best and prevent dirt and grime build up over time.”
Lamps are another frequently-missed item that often collects dust. To clean them, “start by using a damp microfiber cloth and a small amount of mild detergent,” recommends the team at Castle Keepers, a top cleaning company in Atlanta. “Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage its surface.”
Work through your cleaning list once per week to keep your home looking its best.
13. Clean above and inside your appliances
Many people forget about their appliances, leading them to accumulate dust and eventually stop working correctly. “Make sure to clean the tops of your appliances, such as the refrigerator, oven, and microwave,” says Mike Ziarko, founder of No More Chores. “These areas can gather a lot of dust and grime and can be difficult to reach without the proper tools.”
The team at Real World Cleaning Services suggests cleaning inside your appliances. “People typically forget about the inside of their appliances,” they say. “Pay extra attention to the inside of your oven, dishwasher, and microwave.”
14. Don’t forget the windows
Clean windows can make a big difference in the appearance of a room. Clean them using a squeegee and a solution of water and vinegar. Just make sure to clean during a cloudy day to avoid streaks.
Pay special attention to your window sills. “Window sills are crucial to clean because they collect dust and often promote mold growth,” notes Robert Dekanski, Leader of The Robert Dekanski Team. “When your window is in contact with cold outside air and warm inside air, it forms condensation, which can quickly build up to form small pools of water,” he says. “This is what causes mold to grow. Make sure to wipe down your window sills once weekly to avoid any issues.”
15. Prioritize high-touch areas
People frequently forget about hard-to-reach areas of the home, such as door knobs and light switches. Make sure not to overlook these, as “they can harbor a significant amount of germs,” says the team at Hire A Maid, maid services in Toronto. “Another common mistake is forgetting the area under furniture, which can accumulate dust and dirt over time.”
Remember to give equal attention to all surfaces and areas in your home to maintain a thorough and hygienic clean.
16. Budget time for your living room
Living rooms frequently fill up with clutter and dust. To keep them clean, make sure to vacuum your living room at least once every week. “Regular vacuuming not only helps to remove dirt and dust, but can also improve air quality and keep your carpets looking like new,” says the team at NW Maids in Portland.
17. Tackle your upholstered furniture
Upholstered furniture is notoriously tricky to clean, mostly because people use it so often. Clean your furniture every week, more frequently during the winter. “People like to stay indoors more during the winter,” says Ursula Avelino from Green Duster. “Because of this, cleaning regularly is important to prevent crumbs and other debris from getting stuck between cushions or under chairs.”
Sofas are especially difficult to clean. “When cleaning a sofa, use a solution of mild soap and water to clean the surface gently,” says the team at White Lilac Cleaning. “Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the fabric,” they say. “For tough stains, use a specialized stain remover specifically designed for upholstery.”
18. Prioritize cleaning your bathroom
Bathrooms typically develop the most grime and are difficult to clean. Prioritize cleaning your bathtub, sink, mirror, walls, and floors. “Clean the shower door and mirror after each use and apply a product like Invisible Glass to control hard water buildup,” advises Jessica, owner of Eco Clean Madison. For walls and floors, “use Magic Erasers and standard dish soap to get rid of grime and soap scum,” she continues.
Make sure to clean your toilet as well, even though it can be unpleasant. “If there are stubborn stains or buildups where a toilet brush isn’t enough, consider using a pumice stone,” says Noah Hornak from Minute Maids. “It’s easy. Wet the pumice stone and scrub stains in a circular motion, then rinse any residue and repeat until the stains are removed.”
Only use a pumice stone as a last resort, as they’re very abrasive.
19. Use white vinegar to clean your shower head
Keep your bathroom sparkling clean by regularly wiping down your shower head and faucet to remove mineral buildup. “Simply fill a plastic bag with white vinegar, secure the bag around the shower head and faucet with a rubber band, and let it soak for at least an hour,” says the team at HomeClean Miami, providing cleaning services in the Miami area. “Next, remove the bag and use a toothbrush to scrub away any remaining buildup,” they say. “Rinse the shower head with water and run hot water through it for a few minutes to remove any remaining vinegar.”
This simple cleaning task will help your shower function properly and prevent water spots and mineral buildup.
20. Get the family involved
It can be challenging to clean an entire home alone if you have a large family. Consider getting your family involved to make the process faster and easier.
To motivate your family to help clean your house, try making it a fun and interactive experience. “Turn on some music, break down cleaning tasks into manageable chunks, and incentivize everyone by offering rewards or treats,” says the team at My Maid House Cleaning Service in Cincinnati, OH. “By creating a positive and enjoyable atmosphere, you can inspire your family to get involved in cleaning the house.” You may even create a weekly bonding experience.
21. Make a plan for your children
Involve your kids in your weekly cleaning. To help, consider establishing routines for everyone. “Assign daily or weekly cleaning tasks to every family member, including kids,” says Nora Mitchell, Editor of Household Advice. “You can also create a ‘no-play’ zone to keep kids and pets out of a certain room or area.”
Another option is to “designate a specific place for toys and playing, and teach children to clean up after themselves,” suggests the team at Yorleny’s Cleaning Service. “You can also involve them in the cleaning process and make it fun by setting timers and challenging them to beat their own times.”
This strategy promotes independence and responsibility while keeping your home neat and organized.
If you have a busy home and are always on a tight schedule, “consider breaking down daily chores into manageable tasks that everyone can complete,” suggests the team at Valencia Pro Cleaning Service. “The goal is to make cleaning routine and to allocate a specific time for it each week to keep your home clutter-free.”
22. Clean your kitchen with a lemon
Kitchens are generally home to tough water spots and stains. “You can remove water spots on your sink and freshen your garbage disposal with a single lemon,” says Mitchell Wiedenhoeft, owner of Sentinel Cleaning Services. “First, load your garbage disposal with a small handful of ice and a couple of drops of dish soap,” he says. “Then, take half a lemon and rub it over the watermarks on your sink. The citric acid in the lemon will help dissolve limescale buildup. When you’re done, toss your lemon half into the garbage disposal and run it to create a fresh aroma.”
23. Use a loofah or toothbrush to clean your oven
Cleaning your oven is essential for a clean home and deserves extra attention. “To clean your oven effectively, first scrub food scraps with a loofah or toothbrush,” suggests Cissy Xu from Miraculous Maids. “For a deeper clean, polish the oven window with a damp cloth and coarse salt,” she says. “Make sure to clean the wires safely using nylon gloves and toothpaste.”
24. Focus on high-traffic or entertainment areas if guests are coming over
The best way to quickly clean when expecting guests is to focus on high-traffic areas and rooms where you want to entertain. “Begin by cleaning and dusting surfaces such as tables and countertops, followed by vacuuming carpets and rugs,” says the team at My American Maid Cleaning Service. “Finish off with a quick bathroom clean, including wiping down the sink and toilet.”
Sometimes, guests may arrive unexpectedly. Don’t feel like you need to scramble. “Focus on decluttering and spot cleaning high-touch areas,” says the team at Adriana Cleaning Maid Service. “Gather all the clutter and toss it in a basket or bin, wipe down the coffee table, straighten any cushions, and tidy up leftover clutter.”
Another option is to establish a quick evening cleaning routine, so you’re always prepared.
25. After a party, don’t let messes sit
Parties are a blast, but often lead to a huge mess, making it hard to return to your daily routine the next day. When cleaning up after a party, “it’s essential to remove all garbage and food as quickly as possible,” says the team at NW Maids in Seattle. “Removing garbage reduces the chances of pests or other issues that can arise from debris left behind,” they say. “Then, wipe down all surfaces and tables to remove any residue or food that may have been left behind.”
Finish by vacuuming or mopping your floors to make sure they’re clean and free of debris
26. Schedule deep cleanings for especially dirty areas
Deep cleans are one of the most critical steps in keeping your home clean. However, they can be daunting, even before considering where to start. If you’re wondering where to begin your cleaning project, consider your home’s size and individual needs. “Typically, it’s always best to start with the most used rooms, such as the living room or kitchen,” says the team at Helping Hands Cleaning Services. “Once you’re done with those areas, move on to more private rooms, like bedrooms and closets.”
Another important deep cleaning step is to keep filters throughout your home in good shape. These include the dishwasher filter, washing machine filter, dryer filter, air purifier filter, and HVAC filter. “It’s important to clean filters regularly to keep these appliances running optimally,” says Penny Jackson, owner of Penny’s Personal Touch. “An easy way to remember is to set a deep cleaning date at the beginning of every month.”
27. Prioritize your mattress during deep cleans
Deep cleaning your mattress is often daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are three essential steps from the team at Shovlin Mattress Factory to make it easier:
- Strip your mattress of all bedding, mattress pads, or covers and wash in hot water with vinegar to remove odors and soften fabrics.
- Carry the mattress outside and stand it up in the sun. Use a bat or clean broom to freshen the material and circulate fresh air. If you can’t take it outside, lean it against an open window and sprinkle baking powder before vacuuming.
- Spot-clean any stains with hydrogen peroxide, upholstery cleaner, or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda.
If your mattress is still dirty, call a professional cleaning service or consider replacing it.
28. Maintain a cleaning routine
Keeping your home clean is much easier when you have a routine in place. Set aside time each week to clean and stick to the schedule. This will help keep your home tidy and organized without feeling overwhelmed.
While daily light cleaning is helpful, monthly deep cleaning is much more critical. “Adjust your cleaning schedule to fit your lifestyle and personal preferences,” says the team at The Maid Connection Cleaning Service. “Whatever you choose, sticking to a regular deep cleaning schedule will ensure that your home always feels fresh and inviting.”
29. Consider a cleaning company for extra-tough jobs
If you struggle to maintain your clean home, consider hiring a cleaning company. “Look for a company with positive reviews on multiple platforms and ask for a ‘test cleaning’ to ensure the best service,” says the team at Merit Maids. “This way, you can easily let them go if they don’t meet your expectations, without any consequences.”
Cleaning companies may also save you money in the long run. They’re often more thorough than an individual may be, reducing the chance for mold and other costly pollutants to build up.
30. Clean more frequently if you live in an apartment
Apartments are often small and deceptively difficult to keep clean; dirt and grime build up much more quickly in small spaces. To keep your apartment clean, establish a morning cleaning routine. “Begin your day by making your bed,” says Angelo Knox from We Clean Baltimore. “It makes a significant change in the room’s appearance and simply takes a few minutes.”
Additionally, do laundry first thing in the morning. If you work at an office or leave your home during the day, make sure to set your machine on delay so it will be ready to dry when you arrive home.
31. Avoid common cleaning mistakes
Cleaning is harder than it looks, especially when it comes to using the right products for the right surfaces. Ana Andres, the co-founder of TidyChoice, London’s leading domestic cleaning service, lists three of the most common cleaning mistakes to avoid.
- Scrubbing carpet stains: Scrubbing carpet stains damages the fibers and pushes the stain further into the carpet. Instead, gently blot carpet stains with a dry towel to absorb them.
- Cleaning windows on sunny days: Cleaning windows on sunny days dries the cleaning solution too quickly, leaving unwanted streaks. It’s best to choose cloudy or cool days to clean your windows.
- Using vinegar or bleach on marble and granite: White vinegar is a great natural cleaner that you can use to remove limescale and for deodorizing. Don’t use white vinegar or bleach-based products on marble and granite, as they can damage and discolor the surface. Instead, use warm water and liquid soap.
The post 31 House Cleaning Tips That Professionals Swear By appeared first on Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling & More.
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