15 Tips & Tricks to Cleaning Like a Pro on a Budget

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Have you ever seen those satisfying ASMR cleaning videos online? Those with professional cleaners who make cleaning look like a fine art, ending in a satisfyingly squeaky-clean space. For folks with other day jobs and responsibilities, cleaning is seen as a chore. Nonetheless, here are 15 tips and tricks to achieve near-professional results.

Use a Checklist

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Create a cleaning checklist to ensure you complete all tasks. Break it down by room and include both daily and weekly chores. A checklist creates a sense of accomplishment and a more thoroughly cleaned space.

Soak Tough Items Overnight

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For items with stubborn grime or stains, soak them overnight before scrubbing. Soaking softens the dirt, making it easier to remove. An overnight soak can work wonders, whether kitchen utensils or bathroom fixtures. Simply submerge the items in warm water with some detergent and let it rest.

Declutter First

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Before you start cleaning, declutter the area. Put away items that don’t belong and organize what’s left. Decluttering makes the actual cleaning more manageable, as you will get a clearer picture of what needs to be cleaned and what needs to be removed. You will also become more focused and efficient after decluttering.

Choose the Right Cleaning Agents

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Different surfaces require different cleaning agents for the best results. Use glass cleaner for mirrors and windows, wood polish for wooden furniture, and all-purpose cleaner for countertops. Knowing which product to use ensures you don’t damage surfaces. Always read the labels and follow the instructions.

Tackle Different Types of Dirt Differently

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Identify the type of dirt you’re dealing with, such as grease, dust, mildew, or stains. Each type requires a specific approach and cleaning agent. For instance, grease needs a degreaser, while mildew might need a mold-killing solution. Understanding this helps you choose the most effective method, making your cleaning process faster and more efficient.

Get a Microfiber Cloth

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Microfiber cloths are versatile and practical for various cleaning tasks. They trap dust and dirt better than regular clothes and can be used dry or damp. Microfiber is also gentle on delicate surfaces, preventing scratches. Buy a few for a cleaner home with less effort.

Clean Top to Bottom

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Start from the top and work your way down when cleaning a room. Dust and dirt fall to the lower surfaces, so this method ensures you don’t have to re-clean. Begin with ceiling fans, shelves, and countertops, then move to floors. Doing this will save time and effort, and your room will be spotless from top to bottom.

Clean Light Fixtures

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Dust and clean light fixtures with a microfiber cloth to improve their efficiency and appearance. Clean fixtures provide better lighting and reduce allergens. Make this a part of your regular cleaning routine. Your rooms will be brighter and cleaner.

Use Squeegees on Glasses

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Use a squeegee to clean glass surfaces like windows and shower doors. Squeegees prevent water spots and streaks. They are quick and effective, resulting in a streak-free shine that is impossible to achieve with regular rags or sponges. 

Old toothbrushes are handy

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A used toothbrush is perfect for cleaning small crevices and hard-to-reach areas. Use it around faucets, grout lines, and other tight spots. The small bristles get into places larger brushes can’t reach. Keep an old toothbrush handy for these tasks. 

Use Baking Soda on Soft Surfaces

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Spray baking soda on your carpets and upholstery before vacuuming. Let it sit for 15 minutes to absorb odors. Then, vacuum well to remove the baking soda and odors. Baking soda for soft surfaces simply freshens your home and is an easy addition to your cleaning routine.

Focus on High-Touch Areas

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Regularly clean high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls. These spots harbor germs and can spread illness. Use disinfectant wipes or sprays for a quick and effective clean. Prioritizing these areas keeps your home germ-free.

Vinegar for Shower Heads

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Wrap a polythene bag containing white vinegar around your shower head and hold it in place with an elastic band. Allow it to soak for an hour to break down the mineral deposits. Rinse away any leftover vinegar. The vinegar unclogs its pores, providing a solid and steady water flow.

Rubber Gloves for Pet Hair

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Put on a pair of rubber gloves and dampen them slightly. Rub your gloved hands over furniture to pick up pet hair easily. The rubber creates static that attracts the hair and removes it easily. This trick quickly and effectively cleans up after pets and gives you fur-free furniture.

Baking Soda and Vinegar for Drains

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Sprinkle baking soda and pour a cup of vinegar down your drain to control clogs and odors. Let the mixture fizz for 10 minutes, then flush with hot water. This combination effectively clears clogs and deodorizes the drain. Use this method regularly to keep your drains flowing smoothly.

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