Grayson West
Keeping a clean house can seem like a dream, but with a few strategic habits, it can become a reality. These simple yet effective tricks can help you stay organized while making home maintenance less of a chore. Here are 15 ways to keep your space immaculate without overwhelming yourself.
Tidy as You Go
Adopting a “clean as you go” habit will save you hours of overwhelming cleaning later. Whether you’re cooking, performing tasks, or getting ready, immediately putting things back where they belong makes a difference. The best part? It keeps messes from building up in the first place.
Create a Cleaning Schedule
Instead of cramming all chores into one day, spread them throughout the week. A schedule helps break cleaning into manageable pieces so that no task feels too daunting. Break cleaning into bite-sized tasks. Assign specific days for dusting, vacuuming, and laundry, and remember to stick to your schedule.
Declutter Regularly
Clutter can sneak up on you and make your home feel chaotic. Set aside time each week to declutter one area—a junk drawer, closet, or countertop. Tackling small sections regularly helps prevent the mess from piling up and will make your home feel more organized and easier to maintain.
Invest in Multitasking Tools
Using versatile tools like vacuum-mop combos and all-purpose cleaners reduces cleaning time and effort. These products make tackling multiple tasks at once more accessible, leaving your home sparkling without needing a full arsenal of supplies. Other efficient multitasking tools include microfiber cloths and steam cleaners.
Designate Drop Zones
Place baskets or hooks in high-traffic areas like entryways or mudrooms for keys, shoes, and bags. This simple method keeps essentials organized and reduces stress during busy mornings. A basket by the door can hold everyday items, while hooks in the mudroom store coats and backpacks neatly.
Make Your Bed Every Morning
Making your bed at the beginning of the day sets a positive tone. It’s a small task, but it instantly makes the room look neater. Plus, it motivates you to tackle other chores. When it becomes a daily routine, it brings a sense of accomplishment that snowballs into more productive habits.
Involve the Whole Family
Maintaining a clean home shouldn’t fall on one person alone. Make cleaning a shared responsibility. Assign age-appropriate chores to everyone in the household. By involving everyone, you spread the workload, which makes it easier to maintain a clean home. It also has the bonus of teaching the family valuable skills.
Deal with Mail Right Away
Mail and papers can quickly take over countertops. The average American household receives over 40 pounds of junk mail each year. Develop a habit of sorting immediately—toss junk mail and file necessary documents. Maintaining this habit saves time and prevents lost or misplaced paperwork.
Practice a 15 Minute Daily Cleanup
Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy
Set a timer for 15 minutes daily and tackle tasks like wiping counters or picking up clothes. You’ll be surprised at how much you can get done in that short time. Even a quick five or ten minutes can make a difference. Consistent, quick sessions help keep messes under control.
Having cleaning tools within reach encourages quick tidying. Store microfiber cloths, sprays, and dusters in spots like under the sink or in closets for easy access. Apply this to other items, too—store things where you use them, such as living room blankets or kitchen cleaning supplies.
Focus on High-Traffic Areas
Certain rooms, like the kitchen or living room, accumulate mess faster. Prioritize these high-traffic areas for regular cleaning. A quick wipe of counters or fluffing couch pillows can enhance the space. Focus on surfaces like countertops and coffee tables, and keep them clear of random items.
Set Up a Laundry System
Laundry can become overwhelming without a plan. Establish a schedule—daily or weekly—and stick to it. A hamper system that separates clothes by color or fabric simplifies the process. Doing one small load daily prevents piles from forming and ensures you always have fresh clothes ready when needed.
Embrace Minimalism
Owning fewer items means less cleaning. Prioritize quality over quantity in décor and furnishings. Each time you bring something new home, donate or discard an item to maintain an uncluttered space. Keeping things minimal reduces dust and visual clutter. Also, be intentional when displaying items on open shelves.
Invest in Quality Storage Solutions
Quality storage solutions can alter your space. Use decorative boxes or stylish bins to store items neatly and uplift your home’s aesthetic. Maximize space with clever storage options, like under-bed bins or wall-mounted shelves. This approach keeps your belongings organized and makes it easier to find what you need quickly.
Tidy Up Before Bed
Waking up to a tidy house makes your mornings less hectic and significantly boosts your productivity throughout the day. So, at the end of the day, take five minutes to put things back in their place. Straighten the living room, clear the countertops, load the dishwasher, and organize your belongings.