Time-Saving House Cleaning Hacks Every Homeowner Should Know

Home is a place where you come every day after your daily routine and want to get relaxed and re-energized for the next morning. But what if that home itself does not offer you fresh and relaxed vibes when you enter it? This is where you need daily and deliberate house cleaning. Along with aesthetic and mental peace reasons, health could also be a reason for proper house cleaning from time to time. 

But I am sure you would agree that most of us find house cleaning cumbersome and struggle. Do you know why? It is difficult because of the unorganised approach. People normally don’t know where to start, how to start, what to do, what is needed, and all such missing knowledge. 

So, to make it easier and more organized for you, we are here with some house cleaning hacks that help you understand in detail what, where, and when to start. But before that, let’s understand the common mistakes people make while attempting house cleaning. 

Common Mistakes about House Cleaning Schedules

Many people have a phobia about house cleaning due to misconceptions like:

• House cleaning doesn’t have to be an all-day event; shorter, focused sessions can be more effective.
• Establish a flexible cleaning schedule that suits your lifestyle instead of a rigid routine.
• Always start cleaning from the top of the room and work your way down.
• Recognize when a task requires professional help instead of attempting to do everything yourself.

11 House Cleaning Tips for Homeowners

House cleaning is not that tough if followed by some well- researched tips like we are discussing below. Let’s understand what it should be.

1. Start with Decluttering

Before you can even begin cleaning, decluttering is essential. Cleaning around clutter makes the job longer and less effective, as dirt can easily build up around misplaced items. Decluttering sets the stage for an efficient cleaning process by allowing you to focus on actual cleaning, not just moving things around.

• Work in sections: Focus on one room or area at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
• Three-box system: Label boxes as keep, donate, and throw away. Quickly decide where each item goes.
• Clear flat surfaces: Remove unnecessary items from countertops, shelves, and tables to reduce dust collection.

2. Establish a Daily Cleaning Routine

Consistency is key to maintaining cleanliness. Incorporate small, daily tasks into your routine to keep the mess from piling up.

• Wipe down kitchen surfaces: After meals, clean kitchen counters and stove tops to prevent grease and food residue from hardening.
• Tidy up high-traffic areas: Quickly straighten up living rooms and hallways by putting away clutter and straightening cushions.
• Handle dishes immediately: Wash, dry, or load dishes into the dishwasher after meals to prevent pile-ups.
• Quick bathroom touch-up: Wipe bathroom sinks and counters each morning to keep toothpaste and water spots from building up.

3. Clean from Top to Bottom

A common mistake is cleaning floors before higher surfaces, which leads to double work. To make the most of your cleaning time, always work from the top down. This strategy ensures that dust and debris from shelves, ceiling fans, and furniture fall to the floor and get picked up in the last step.

• Start with high surfaces: Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures, and high shelves.
• Move to mid-level surfaces: Clean countertops, tables, and lower shelves.
• Finish with the floor: Vacuum, sweep, and mop last to collect everything that’s fallen.

4. Clean Surfaces with Multi-Purpose Cleaners

Instead of juggling different cleaning products, opt for a reliable multi-purpose cleaner that works on various surfaces.

Pro-tip: Use a microfiber cloth with your cleaner to wipe down countertops, cabinets, appliances, and even walls. Microfiber is effective for trapping dirt and bacteria.

5. Follow the Two-Step Floor Cleaning Process

Floors, especially in high-traffic areas, collect dust, dirt, and debris. For a thorough clean, use a two-step method.

• Step 1: Sweep or vacuum the floors to remove loose dirt.
• Step 2: Mop with a cleaning solution suitable for your flooring type (hardwood, tile, etc.).

6. Tackle Bathroom Cleaning Regularly

Bathrooms are one of the most used areas of the house, and they require regular cleaning to stay fresh. Moisture can lead to mould and mildew buildup, making frequent cleaning essential for hygiene. Regular bathroom maintenance keeps deep cleaning sessions shorter and less stressful.

• Clean sinks and counters daily: Use a disinfectant to wipe surfaces clean of toothpaste and soap scum.
• Scrub tiles and grout weekly: Use a mix of baking soda and vinegar or a tile cleaner to scrub away mildew.
• Wipe mirrors and shower doors: Use a streak-free solution for mirrors and shower glass to avoid buildup.

7. Use Natural Solutions for Odor Control

Keeping your home smelling fresh is just as important as maintaining cleanliness. Skip the chemical-laden air fresheners and opt for natural alternatives.

Pro-Tip: Use baking soda in carpets, furniture, and mattresses to absorb odors. Place bowls of white vinegar in musty areas to neutralise bad smells.

8. Don’t Forget the Windows

Windows are often neglected, but dirty windows can make an entire room look dull. Regular window cleaning not only improves the appearance but also lets more natural light in. Here are four tips to get streak-free windows:

• Use the right solution: Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle for a natural, streak-free cleaner.
• Clean on a cloudy day: Cleaning windows on sunny days can cause the solution to dry too quickly, leaving streaks.
• Wipe with microfiber cloths: Avoid using paper towels, as they leave behind lint. Microfiber cloths are best for clear results.
• Don’t forget the frames and sills: Dust and grime can accumulate around window frames and on the sills, so be sure to wipe them down as well.

9. Organise Storage Spaces

Messy cabinets and closets can make your entire home feel disorganized. Invest in bins, baskets, and drawer dividers to keep things tidy. Label storage containers and designate specific spaces for frequently used items, making them easier to find and reducing clutter over time.

10. Set a Deep Cleaning Schedule

While routine cleaning is important, deep cleaning tackles areas that don’t need attention as often, like appliances, upholstery, or hidden spots behind furniture. Scheduling deep cleaning ensures that nothing gets missed over time and prevents dirt buildup.

• Monthly deep clean: Tackle appliances (oven, fridge), under beds, behind large furniture, and inside cabinets.
• Seasonal tasks: Wash windows, shampoo carpets, and clean air ducts to maintain indoor air quality.
• Use a checklist: Create a deep-cleaning checklist so that every area gets attention over time.

11. Book a Professional Cleaning Service When Needed

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, certain areas or deep cleaning tasks can feel overwhelming or time-consuming. Hiring a professional house cleaning service can save you time and ensure a thorough job.

Pro-tip: Consider scheduling professional cleanings for tasks like carpet steaming, upholstery cleaning, or window washing that require specialised equipment and expertise. This is a great way to refresh your home without the heavy lifting.

Putting it to end

Maintaining a clean home doesn’t have to be a chore with these easy steps and hacks! But we all know some tasks can feel a bit overwhelming. If you’re looking to take a break and let the pros handle the heavy lifting, why not reach out to Dirt2Neat Cleaning services in Sydney? We will have your space sparkling in no time!

Get in touch with us today for a free quote or just drop us a line at : info@dirt2neat.com.au