Samara Let’s face it, cleaning isn’t exactly most people’s favorite activity.
A study published in the journal “Social Psychological and Personality Science” found that people would actually rather spend money on professional cleaning services than complete household chores themselves.
But despite the dislike for scrubbing and sweeping, most of us still desire a clean and inviting home.
The good news is, achieving a sparkling space doesn’t require backbreaking marathons of cleaning.
By incorporating some simple strategies and creating a cleaning routine that works for you, you can maintain a clean home without feeling overwhelmed.
Here are 13 practical ways to transform your home into a haven of cleanliness, even if you’re short on time or cleaning enthusiasm:
1. Declutter Regularly
Clutter is the enemy of a clean space.
A study by the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) found that 75% of chronically disorganized people reported feeling overwhelmed and stressed by their clutter.
Dedicate 15 minutes each day or a few hours each week to decluttering.
Go through one room or category of items at a time, tossing out anything broken, unused, or expired. Donate items in good condition that you no longer need.
By minimizing clutter, you’ll not only have less to clean but also create a more calming and spacious environment.
2. Embrace the Power of One-Minute Tasks
Don’t let small messes snowball into bigger cleaning headaches.
Make it a habit to tackle minor cleaning tasks as you see them.
Wipe up spills immediately before they dry and stain. Put dirty dishes in the dishwasher or rinse them right after use. Fold laundry while you wait for the kettle to boil or put away groceries as you unpack them.
These quick one-minute cleanings can significantly reduce clutter and prevent future deep cleaning struggles.
3. Create a Cleaning Routine (and Stick to It!)
Consistency is key to maintaining a clean home.
Develop a cleaning schedule that incorporates daily, weekly, and monthly tasks.
Daily tasks might include making beds, wiping down counters, and putting away dishes. Weekly tasks could involve vacuuming, mopping floors, and cleaning bathrooms.
Monthly tasks might involve dusting high surfaces, cleaning out the refrigerator, and vacuuming furniture.
There are many cleaning schedule templates available online, or you can create your own personalized plan.
The most important thing is to find a schedule that works for you and stick to it as much as possible.
4. Clean From Top to Bottom
When cleaning a room, it’s most efficient to work from top to bottom.
Start by dusting shelves, ceiling fans, and light fixtures. As dust falls, it will land on lower surfaces that you’ll be cleaning next. This way, you only have to dust each surface once.
5. Tackle Pet Hair
Pet hair can seem to be everywhere, even if you have a short-haired pet.
Invest in a good quality lint roller for clothes and furniture.
Use a rubber squeegee on furniture to collect fur. Shedding brushes specifically designed for pet hair can be very effective.
Regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter attachment is also essential for controlling pet hair and allergens.
6. Utilize the Power of Multitasking
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. Turn on some music or podcasts, and clean while you dance or sing along. Catch up on audiobooks or phone calls with friends and family while you fold laundry or dust.
Multitasking can make cleaning feel less like a chore and more like a productive way to unwind.
7. Harness the Cleaning Power of Baking Soda and Vinegar
You don’t need a cabinet full of harsh chemicals to clean your home effectively.
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and can be used to scrub sinks, bathtubs, and even carpets.
White vinegar is a disinfectant and can be used to clean windows, floors, and appliances.
A quick internet search can provide you with countless recipes for homemade cleaning solutions made with these safe and effective ingredients.
8. Clean as You Cook
Washing dishes as you cook can prevent a mountain of dirty dishes from piling up at the end of the meal.
Rinse pots and pans as you finish using them. Wipe down countertops as you go.
Putting a pot of soapy water on the stove while you cook can help you clean utensils and cooking tools throughout the process.
9. Make Laundry a Breeze
Develop a laundry sorting system that works for you.
Having separate hampers for darks, lights, and delicates can streamline the laundry process. Pretreat stains as soon as possible for easier removal later.
Don’t overload the washing machine, as this can lead to wrinkled clothes and less effective cleaning.
Fold or hang laundry promptly to prevent wrinkles and the need for ironing.
Consider using wool dryer balls to soften clothes naturally and reduce drying time. Empty the dryer promptly to prevent wrinkles and mildew growth.
10. Involve the Whole Household
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a one-person job. Delegate age-appropriate cleaning tasks to family members.
Younger children can help with putting away toys, wiping down tables, or sorting laundry.
Older children can tackle tasks like vacuuming, dusting, or unloading the dishwasher.
Creating a cleaning chart and assigning chores can help ensure everyone contributes and feels responsible for maintaining a clean home.
11. Don’t Forget the Preventative Measures
Taking a few preventative steps can significantly reduce cleaning time in the long run.
Place doormats inside and outside entryways to trap dirt and debris before it gets tracked into the house.
Take off shoes at the door to prevent dirt and allergens from spreading throughout your home.
Wipe down spills immediately to prevent them from drying and becoming more difficult to clean.
A little prevention goes a long way in maintaining a clean space.
12. Embrace Quick Fixes
Life can get busy, and sometimes a full-blown cleaning session just isn’t feasible.
On those days, embrace the power of quick fixes. Spend 10 minutes straightening up the living room by putting away clutter and fluffing throw pillows. Wipe down bathroom surfaces with disinfectant wipes for a fast refresh.
A quick vacuuming of high-traffic areas can make a surprising difference in the overall feel of your home.
13. Reward Yourself
Cleaning can be tiring, so don’t forget to acknowledge your accomplishments!
After you’ve completed a cleaning task or tackled your cleaning routine for the week, reward yourself with something you enjoy.
Take a relaxing bath, curl up with a good book, or watch your favorite show.
A little reward can go a long way in keeping you motivated to maintain a clean and inviting home.
Conclusion
Keeping a clean home doesn’t have to be a chore.
By incorporating these simple strategies and creating a cleaning routine that works for you, you can achieve a clean and organized space without feeling overwhelmed.
Remember, a clean home is a happy home! So put on some music, grab your cleaning supplies, and get started. What cleaning task will you tackle first?
