Cleaning is a wonderful thing when you know the outcome of the process leads to a tidy and welcoming space; however, the actual cleaning can be dreadful. From outside to in, you need to clean out your gutters and drains, mop the floors, do the dishes…the list is endless. Not to mention the challenge of knowing the best cleaning products to use, like the best bleach for bathroom cleaning (our favorite is Clorox). Some of the most-used cleaning products include Glad ForceFlex Max Strength bags, Fabulosa bleach free disinfecting wipes, Pinesol, and Microban bathroom cleaner. Then, there’s the finance aspect of trying to find discounts, like Clorox clean up coupons, on otherwise expensive products. All of this adds up to time spent wondering and worrying about how to effectively clean your home, but why is it all so time-consuming? Well, it doesn’t have to be. Here are 5 time saving cleaning hacks that will help you get your home spotless in no time:
1. Create a cleaning schedule
The most effective way to get your cleaning done is by making a cleaning schedule to outline what specific tasks need to be done each day. This allows you to set a routine, get into the habit of getting things done, and allow for small tasks each day rather than one full day of cleaning each week—it’s all about the maintenance.
2. Multitask and make cleaning fun
I know what you’re thinking, “it’s impossible to make cleaning fun.” But by multitasking and pairing your cleaning with other things you enjoy, it can work! Try folding your laundry as you watch your favorite TV show, jamming out to your favorite music while you sweep the floors, or make cleaning a workout by putting on your fitness tracker and set a goal of how many calories you burn or how many active minutes you get before you stop. Multitasking is a great way to save time and enjoy what you’re doing more.
3. Start from top to bottom
By starting from top to bottom in your home, like beginning with the windows and finishing off with the floor, you avoid having to re-clean. Use gravity to your advantage and avoid getting dust on your freshly mopped floors by making sure you save them for the end.
4. Have your appliances clean themselves
With today’s smart appliances, many products have self-clean options, which saves you from spending time scrubbing. If you haven’t made an upgrade, though, there are solutions. Fill up a bowl of warm water, add some lemon juice, and pop it in the microwave until the water begins to boil. This loosens up the grime and makes it much easier to wipe away any food stains. For your dishwasher, try filling up a cup with vinegar and run your dishwasher on the hottest and longest cycle. This sanitizes and loosens grime and soap scum simultaneously.
5. Prepare your rooms for cleaning
Instead of picking things up as you go, prepare your rooms to save time. Put your chairs on top of the table, roll up your mats, and pick up toys or knick-knacks off the floor before you run your vacuum to be more efficient in getting the job done.
