Lisa O
Let’s face it: cleaning is a hassle. But with the right tools and a little strategy, you can cut down on the time you usually spend scrubbing tiles, fighting mold, or chipping away at gunk. And hey, you might even have some fun while doing it! Here are 15 ways to make cleaning faster and a whole lot more enjoyable.
Have a System
Cutting your cleaning time in half starts with having a system. That means sticking to the same order every time: tackle one room at a time and always start and finish in the same spot so you’re not running back and forth like a crazy person. Make it even more fun by using a timer to see how much you can get done in the time you’ve set.
Keep Proper Tools Nearby
Having all your cleaning stuff at your fingertips means you won’t waste time running back and forth to the cabinet. Wear a tool belt or an apron and load up the pockets with what you need. It might be tricky with big bottles, but you don’t need those—just pour the cleaners into smaller spray bottles that are super easy to carry around.
Use the Right Tools for Maximum Speed
Just having your tools nearby isn’t enough—you must have the right ones to really speed things up. Skip the random cloths or old, worn-out brushes and grab these: a microfiber cloth (it cleans better and dries way faster), a mop with a reusable pad (no need to keep buying disposable ones), and a lightweight vacuum that’s easy to handle.
Clean Top to Bottom
Don’t start a room by wiping down the coffee table, then cleaning the blinds, only to watch dust from the blinds settle back on your freshly cleaned table. Start at the top and work your way down to the floor. That way, you won’t be doing the same thing twice. Turn it into a mini workout: try to clean and move around in a way that gets your body moving, like stretching or even doing some squats while dusting.
Declutter First to Make Cleaning Easier
Before you dive into scrubbing, take a few minutes to declutter the space. Cleaning is way easier when surfaces are clear, and removing stuff makes it easier to spot dust and grime hiding under things. Toss anything that’s expired, donate stuff you don’t use, and organize as you go. A tidy space is not only quicker to clean but also feels way more put together.
All-Purpose Cleaners are Your Best Friend
Using a different cleaner for every surface can be a total time-suck—and it’ll probably make your cleaning cupboard look like a mini store. Go for an all-purpose cleaner that works on all kinds of counters, glass, floors, and even the bathroom. A lot of cleaners now have fresh, natural scents, and they can handle most messes with little effort.
Get Proactive
The easiest way to keep your home clean is to nip problems in the bud before they even start. Take using a shower cleaner, for example—it helps stop grime and soap scum from building up. Just spray it on and forget about it. Each time you shower, give it a quick spritz to keep the shower from getting dirty. Spray, rinse, and you’re done. No wiping or scrubbing is required.
Dust Without Spraying
Feather dusters are super handy for cleaning blinds, corners, and other hard-to-reach spots. Experts say ostrich feather dusters, which go for about $10, are great because the feathers grab onto the dust, and the big quills don’t fall out of the handle. They’re perfect for regular dusting, but if there’s a lot of buildup, you’ll need to vacuum or wipe it down first, then just use the duster every couple of weeks after that.
Involve the Whole Family in Teamwork
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a one-person job. If you’ve got family or roommates, get everyone in on it! Split up the tasks based on age and what everyone can handle—kids can put away toys or do some dusting, while the adults can tackle the heavier stuff. When everyone pitches in, cleaning feels more like a team effort, and it gets done way quicker.
Use a Basket for Quick Clean-Ups
One of the quickest ways to speed up cleaning is by using a basket to gather everything that’s out of place. If you’re in a rush or need to tidy up fast before guests show up, just throw everything in the basket. After you’re done with the main cleaning, go back and sort through the stuff you tossed in there.
Cut Through Kitchen Grease
Grease always ends up on kitchen cabinets, especially the ones above or next to the stove. You can grab a cleaner with oil to wipe it off, or you can use a regular dish soap that cuts through grease. The detergent works on your cabinets the same way it does on your dishes. Maybe you can make a DIY detergent with home ingredients if you want to enjoy the cleaning process.
Multitask and Maximize Your Time
If you’re waiting for the bathroom cleaner to sit for a bit or the washing machine to wrap up, use that time to clean something else. Wipe down your kitchen counters or dust the living room while the laundry’s going. A little multitasking here and there can really make a big difference. Use every minute.
Focus on High-Traffic Areas First
Some areas of your home get way more use than others, so start with those. Kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms are high-priority areas because they tend to get dirty faster. Clean these spaces first, and the rest of the house will feel cleaner, too—because they are the most used spaces that leave the biggest impression!
Take Breaks to Avoid Fatigue
Cleaning can get pretty exhausting, especially if you’re trying to do it all in one go. Let yourself take quick breaks during your cleaning marathon. Stretch your legs, drink some water, and take a breather. You’ll come back to your chores feeling recharged and ready to tackle the next spot instead of burning out halfway through.
Reward Yourself Afterward
One of the best parts of cleaning is the reward at the end. Once you’ve wrapped up your tasks, treat yourself to something small that makes you happy. Whether it’s munching on snacks you love, watching an episode of a new Netflix show, or chilling with a good book, rewarding yourself makes cleaning feel way better. You’ll start looking forward to it, knowing something fun is waiting for you when you’re done.