With so many cleaning tips available, it can be tough to discern what's useful. From kitchens to bathrooms and everything in between, the chores often seem endless.
We've compiled 50 essential cleaning tips, featuring effective methods and non-toxic product recommendations to keep your home feeling refreshed.
50 Cleaning Tips to Simplify Your Chores
These cleaning tips apply to every room, from entryways to bedrooms.
Before starting any cleaning task, a quick tidy-up is advised.
Begin by taking out the trash, putting laundry away, clearing counters, and organizing toys. For detailed decluttering strategies, check our guide to streamline your space, making cleaning faster and easier.
1. Make a Cleaning Plan
Deep cleaning can be daunting, especially when tackling multiple rooms. Andrea, founder of Pine & Prospect Home, suggests jotting down a list of tasks in order to make the process feel more manageable.
Consider using a pre-made cleaning planner from Etsy to kickstart your chores.
A useful tip for busy households is the different-day, different-room cleaning schedule, which prevents mess from becoming overwhelming.
2. Dust Effectively
Fluffy dusters only redistribute dust. Instead, use a damp microfiber cloth from Amazon for effective dust removal.
Alternatively, the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster effectively collects dust without scattering it. You can find these at Walmart.
Investing in a high-quality air purifier, like the Shark NeverClean Air Purifier from Best Buy, helps capture tiny particles in the air, reducing dust settling.
3. Clean from Top to Bottom
Always work from the top of a room downwards. Begin with high shelves, and finish with floor cleaning to avoid redoing areas.
A Swiffer duster from Walmart facilitates reaching high spots without a ladder.
4. Care for Houseplants
Houseplants collect dust on their leaves, requiring regular cleaning. Rinse hardy plants in the shower with lukewarm water, or wipe them with a damp cloth.
Mo Bhula of The Botanical Archive emphasizes cleaning the undersides of leaves monthly for optimal health.
5. Create a Stain Station
Stains should be treated immediately. Set up a mobile stain station stocked with detergent, stain removers, and clean cloths.
When treating stains, remember to blot rather than rub, advises Vera Peterson, President of Molly Maid.
6. Use Natural Cleaners
Cleaning with vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice, and hydrogen peroxide can be as effective as commercial products, without the health risks.
Cut plastic from your routine by making DIY cleaners or opting for refillable products to help the environment.
7. Utilize Steam Power
Steam cleaners can tackle various surfaces, dislodging grease, stains, and bacteria without harsh chemicals. The Black & Decker 7-in-1 steam mop from Amazon is a versatile choice.
8. Clean as You Go
Angela Lee of HellaMaid suggests making daily cleaning a habit by wiping surfaces and putting items away after use.
9. Don't Overlook Woodwork
Invest in a Magic Eraser from Walmart to easily tackle scuffs and stains.
10. Clean Lights and Ceiling Fans
For dust-free lighting, use a pillowcase to wipe fan blades. For lampshades, a lint roller from Walmart works wonders.
11. Maintain Your Washing Machine
Clean your washing machine monthly to avoid odors. Use Affresh from Walmart for effective cleaning.
12. Tackle TV Screens
Clean your TV screen weekly, avoiding excess moisture. Use a dedicated screen cleaner like Screen Mom from Amazon.
13. Manage Pet Hair
Use a lint roller from Walmart on furniture. For deeper cleaning, use a damp rubber squeegee before vacuuming.
14. Clean Your Cleaning Tools
Maintaining clean tools is crucial for effective cleaning. Regularly wash microfiber cloths and ensure vacuum filters are clean.
15. Automate Cleaning Tasks
Invest in smart cleaning tools, like a robot vacuum, to save time. The Eufy S1 Pro Omni Robot Vac from Best Buy is highly recommended.
16. Evening Cleaning Routine
Establishing an evening routine helps you wake up to a tidy home. Tidy up the kitchen and living areas before bed.
17. Try Body Doubling
Cleaning alongside someone else, whether physically or virtually, can boost motivation. Watching a cleaning video can help you stay focused.
18. Focus on One Tool at a Time
Using one cleaning tool at a time can streamline your process. For example, vacuum the entire house before moving on to dusting.
19. Balance Chores When Living Alone
Finding a balance between chores and free time is vital. Set laundry schedules and prioritize tasks based on usage.
20. Involve Your Family
Encourage everyone in the household to participate in cleaning routines. Involving children with age-appropriate tasks fosters teamwork.
Kitchen Cleaning Tips
These grease-fighting tips make kitchen cleaning easier.
21. Naturally Degrease
To clean an oven, place a slice of lemon in water and bake at 250 degrees for 20 minutes. This method also works for microwaves.
22. Keep Your Sink Spotless
A clean sink improves kitchen appearance. Use a mixture of dish soap and warm water for a quick clean.
23. Sanitize Cutting Boards
To maintain wooden cutting boards, sprinkle with coarse salt and scrub with half a lemon.
24. Descale Regularly
Use denture cleaning tablets from Walmart to regularly clean your coffee maker.
25. Remember Vertical Surfaces
Wipe down cabinet doors and handles regularly to maintain hygiene.
26. Clean Cabinet Tops
Cabinet tops attract dust and grease; use a vacuum followed by Method Heavy Duty Degreaser from Amazon.
27. Deep Clean the Dishwasher
Run an empty hot wash cycle monthly. Clean filters and trays to maintain efficiency.
28. Don't Forget Behind Appliances
Regularly clean behind appliances to prevent dust accumulation.
29. Deodorize Fridge and Pantry
Empty and clean your fridge regularly to avoid musty odors.
30. Maintain Your Trash Can
Wipe your trash can clean every time you empty it to prevent bad smells.
Bedroom Cleaning Tips
Keeping a clean bedroom enhances sleep quality.
31. Change Sheets Regularly
Change sheets often to improve hygiene and comfort.
32. Air Out Your Mattress
Let your mattress breathe daily to prevent stale odors.
33. Wash Comforters and Pillows
Wash these items at least twice a year to maintain freshness.
34. Clean Under the Bed
Vacuum regularly under the bed to manage dust buildup.
35. Refresh Clothes Storage
Declutter your closet, dust shelves, and vacuum the floor.
Bathroom Cleaning Tips
Regular bathroom cleaning prevents mold and bacteria.
36. Start with the Shower
Apply cleaning solutions to the shower first to minimize scrubbing time.
37. Scrub the Toilet
Use vinegar and baking soda for a natural toilet clean.
38. Clean Grout Effectively
For stubborn mold, use a paste of baking soda and vinegar.
39. Shine Up Tiles
A vinegar and water solution can make tiles sparkle.
40. Maintain Your Bath Mat
Wash your bath mat weekly to keep it hygienic.
41. Refresh Your Shower Curtain
Wash liners regularly to prevent mildew. Hang to dry after cleaning.
42. Finish with the Sink
Clean the sink last to keep it sparkling after other tasks.
43. Clear Out Drains
Prevent clogs by regularly cleaning and deodorizing drains.
44. Maintain Exhaust Fans
Dust and clean fans monthly to ensure efficiency.
Window Cleaning Tips
45. Eliminate Smudges
Clean windows on cool days to prevent streaks.
46. Use The Pink Stuff for Outdoor Grime
This cleaning paste effectively removes dirt from windows.
47. Clean Window Treatments
Use a microfiber cloth wrapped around tongs to clean blinds easily.
48. Polish Window Sills
Regularly wipe down sills to keep them dust-free.
49. Remove Cobwebs
Use an old sock on a broom handle to tackle cobwebs easily.
50. Add Essential Oils
Incorporate essential oils into your cleaning routine for pleasant scents.
Cleaning Must-Haves
Here are six essentials to stock up on for efficient cleaning:
EWG Certified
Non-toxic
Machine washable
Flex-texture
Our expert pick
Lemon Scent
Now, learn how to overcome cleaning procrastination and tackle your chores without feeling overwhelmed.
