1. Start with a Plan
Before diving in, take five minutes to walk through your home and prioritise what needs attention. Focus on high-traffic areas and surfaces that make the biggest visual impact – think kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. A quick checklist will help you stay focused and avoid wasting time hopping from task to task.
2. Declutter First
You can’t clean surfaces you can’t see! Before you start scrubbing, spend a few minutes picking up stray items and putting things back where they belong. Grab a laundry basket and do a “sweep” of each room – toss in anything that doesn’t belong, and sort it out later.
3. Use the ‘Top to Bottom’ Rule
Always clean from top to bottom – ceiling fans, shelves, countertops, and finally, floors. That way, you’re not spreading dust or dirt onto surfaces you’ve already cleaned. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in efficiency.
4. Let Products Work for You
Don’t waste elbow grease when you don’t have to. Spray your bathroom cleaner or kitchen degreaser first, and let it sit while you move on to another task. Giving your products time to break down grime makes wiping up a breeze.
5. Use Microfibre Cloths
Ditch the paper towels – microfibre cloths are your best friend for a fast and thorough clean. They grab dust, remove streaks, and can be reused over and over. Keep a few dry ones on hand for polishing surfaces like glass and stainless steel.
6. Multitask Like a Pro
Let the washing machine or dishwasher run while you tackle another room. Pop your bedding or bath mats in the wash, load the dishwasher, and let the appliances do the heavy lifting while you keep moving.
7. Try the 15-Minute Timer Trick
Set a timer for 15 minutes in each room – or even less if you’re just doing a quick tidy. You’ll be surprised how much you can get done when you’re racing the clock. This trick keeps you focused and stops you from getting lost in the details.
8. Use a Cleaning Caddy
Keep all your go-to products and cloths in one portable basket or caddy. This saves time walking back and forth to the cupboard and makes it easy to move from room to room without missing a beat.
9. Don’t Forget the Door Handles and Switches
They’re some of the most-touched (and most forgotten) spots in the house. A quick wipe with an antibacterial spray or wipe can make a big difference in hygiene, especially during flu season.
10. Leave Floors Until Last
Always finish with the floors. A quick vacuum or sweep followed by a fast mop will tie the whole room together and remove any dirt that’s been knocked loose during the clean.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a massive chore. With a few clever hacks, you can keep your home looking fresh and tidy without spending hours each week. These small habits can help you stay on top of things – and free up your time for what really matters. Happy cleaning!