A clean home makes us happy. It provides relaxation for minds and benefits for our soul and body. But it isn’t a daunting task. By adopting these 10 easy ways, listed by Tugela Wave you can keep your house clean and looking its best with minimal effort. From creating a cleaning schedule to decluttering regularly, these practical tips will make it easier than ever to maintain a clean and inviting home. All of the tasks you don’t have to do at a time. Many of them, are done by the situation demand. So, you shouldn’t be worry.
How to Keep Your House Clean
Let’s dive into some straightforward strategies that can transform your home into a well-kept sanctuary.
1. Create a Cleaning Schedule
Daily Tasks
- Make your bed every morning.
- Wash the dishes after every meal to prevent a pile-up in the sink.
- Wipe down kitchen countertops, stovetops, and bathroom surfaces with disinfecting wipes.
- Tidy up the living room by fluffing cushions and folding throws.
- Take out the trash daily.
- Sweep the kitchen or hallways to avoid dirt accumulation.
Weekly Tasks
- Vacuum carpets and rugs in all rooms, and mop hard floors to keep them spotless.
- Dust shelves, picture frames, light fixtures, and electronics to keep allergens at bay.
- Clean mirrors and windows to remove smudges and dust.
- Wipe down bathroom sinks, mirrors, and counters, and sanitize toilets.
- Wash your bed linens, pillowcases, and towels.
- Wipe down the fridge door and handles.
Monthly Tasks
- Deep clean the oven, stovetop, and microwave to prevent grease buildup.
- Clean under the furniture (sofa, bed, etc.) to catch dust, crumbs, and hidden dirt.
- Wash windows and clean window tracks.
- Vacuum and clean behind fridge, washer, and dryer.
- Clean the air vents and replace filters to maintain air quality.
Seasonal Tasks
- Declutter closets by donating unused items, switching out seasonal clothing, and reorganizing.
- Consider professional carpet cleaning if needed.
- Wash curtains, drapes, or blinds that collect dust and allergens.
- Clean out your garage or attic to ensure it’s organized and free from clutter.
- Check for signs of pests or leaks around the house, particularly after changing seasons.
2. Declutter Regularly
- Tackle one area or room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Sort items into three categories: keep, donate, or throw away.
- Create a “donate” box or bag in a closet so you can easily add unwanted items as you go.
- Use storage bins, baskets, or boxes to group similar items together, making things easier to find.
- Keep countertops and tables clear by storing unnecessary items in drawers or cabinets.
- Reorganize the pantry or kitchen cabinets by using bins or clear containers to store food items neatly.
- Minimize the number of decorations or knick-knacks that accumulate dust.
- Keep shoes in a designated place to avoid them cluttering entryways or bedrooms.
- Regularly check for mail or paper clutter and discard unnecessary papers.
3. Clean as You Go to Keep Your House Clean
- Wipe down surfaces after cooking or eating.
- Put dirty dishes directly into the dishwasher.
- Use a lint roller or vacuum to quickly remove pet hair from furniture.
- Immediately put away items that are left out after you use them (books, clothes, bags).
- Take a few moments to fold clothes immediately after drying them to prevent piles from forming.
- Clean the bathroom sink after every use to prevent toothpaste and soap scum buildup.
- Hang or fold towels right after use to avoid damp towels piling up.
4. Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy
- Have a cleaning caddy or basket with essential supplies that can be moved around the house.
- Stock up on versatile cleaners (multi-surface cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfecting wipes).
- Keep a vacuum cleaner and broom in accessible areas like the hallway or pantry for quick clean-ups.
- Use microfiber cloths for dusting, as they trap dirt and can be reused.
- Store extra cleaning products under sinks or in cabinets to keep them out of sight but easily accessible.
- Keep a lint roller and garbage bags in common areas to make cleaning quick and easy.
5. Focus on High-Traffic Areas
Kitchen:
- Wipe down the fridge door and handles frequently to avoid food residue buildup.
- Clean the microwave and toaster regularly to prevent spills and crumbs.
Living Room:
- Fluff pillows and fold blankets every day.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery weekly to remove dust, dirt, and pet hair.
- Wipe down entertainment centers, TV stands, and other surfaces.
- Keep remote controls and other frequently used items in designated areas.
Bathroom:
- Sanitize toilet seats, handles, and other touchpoints daily to reduce germs.
- Wipe down bathroom counters, sinks, and mirrors every couple of days.
- Clean the shower or bathtub weekly to prevent soap scum and mildew.
- Keep extra toiletries organized in drawers or baskets to minimize clutter.
Entryway:
- Keep shoes organized in a shoe rack or storage bench to prevent dirt from spreading into the house.
- Wipe down door handles, light switches, and any high-touch areas.
- Sweep or vacuum the entryway daily to avoid dirt being tracked inside.
6. Set a Timer
- Start with short 10-15 minute bursts of cleaning, which can feel less overwhelming and make it easier to stick to.
- Use a timer to focus on one task at a time, such as dusting or wiping down surfaces.
- Challenge yourself to clean as much as you can in the allotted time—racing against the clock can make the task more fun.
- Break larger cleaning tasks into smaller, timed sessions to avoid burnout and finish quicker.
7. Clean with the Right Tools
- Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to trap dust, dirt, and allergens.
- Choose microfiber cloths for dusting, as they are gentle and effective in trapping particles.
- Consider investing in a steam mop for deep cleaning floors without harsh chemicals.
- Use a good quality broom and dustpan for quick clean-ups in small spaces.
- Keep a duster with extendable arms to reach high shelves, ceiling fans, and light fixtures.
- Use a toilet brush with a separate cleaner for maintaining a germ-free toilet.
8. Organize Your Cleaning
- Organize your cleaning products by type and frequency of use (bathroom cleaners, kitchen cleaners, etc.) for easier access.
- Tidy up your cleaning supplies after each session to keep them in one place and prevent clutter.
- Have a checklist for each room so you can stay on track without forgetting important areas.
- Assign specific days for different areas (e.g., Mondays for the kitchen, Tuesdays for the bathroom) to create consistency.
9. Incorporate Natural Cleaners
- Use a vinegar and water solution for cleaning glass, mirrors, and countertops.
- Baking soda is great for scrubbing tubs, sinks, and kitchen surfaces.
- Lemon can be used to deodorize and sanitize cutting boards, and as a natural bleach alternative.
- Use essential oils like tea tree or lavender to add a fresh scent and disinfect surfaces naturally.
- Make a DIY all-purpose cleaner by mixing water, vinegar, and a few drops of your favorite essential oil.
10. Delegate Tasks
- Assign daily or weekly cleaning chores to family members or roommates to share the workload.
- Create a chart or calendar with specific tasks and deadlines to help everyone stay on track.
- Reward the household after completing cleaning tasks, like a movie night or special treat.
- Set expectations and discuss who will handle different areas (kitchen, living room, bathrooms, etc.) for clarity.