How often do you look to the week ahead and try to put off cleaning as long as you can? You know it’ll take a few hours, and there’s nothing enjoyable about it. But there are a few tips and tricks professional cleaners recommend when you’re completing your weekly home cleaning that could save you time and money.
Use a doormat.
Doormats need to be placed both inside and outside of every door in your home. They help keep excess dirt out of your home, and they’re easy to clean. Make sure they’re weather-resistant if you’re keeping them outside during the changing seasons, and clean them regularly.
Combine tasks.
Let’s say you’re doing a deep cleaning and decide you want to really clean your floors. Try vacuuming, then scrubbing the baseboards, and then mopping. It wouldn’t make sense to vacuum and then scrub the toilets and then wipe the windows. The idea is to consolidate your time as best as you can while you clean so that you don’t feel like you don’t have any time left over.
Stock up on products.
This isn’t to say that you need to buy all of the products on sale. However, there are a lot of products that can be used in both the kitchen and the bathrooms, and even on sensitive surfaces such as wood and windows. If you aren’t comfortable using so many harsh chemicals in your home, try finding DIY mixtures and all-natural green cleaners. A little white vinegar and baking soda can go a long way in a kitchen or bathroom.
Use the dishwasher.
The dishwasher isn’t only for dinnertime. Do you have small sets of gardening shears, mason jars, and old candles that you’d like to reuse? Pop them in and give them a nice cleaning.
Have a “Cleaning Plan.”
Map it out at the beginning of the day so that you know exactly what you’re doing, when, how, and what products you need. Maybe you’re just doing a quick cleaning for a few weekend visitors, or maybe a kitchen is in need of some attention. Plan out your cleaning day ahead of time so you don’t find yourself distracted by that linen closet you’ve been meaning to reorganize. If you find yourself being distracted, make a calendar and take on the larger closets later.
Define what clean is for you.
Maybe you can live with a little clutter, or maybe you need your home to be absolutely spotless. Whatever your definition of clean is, remember that it’s okay. It’s your home, and whatever makes you happy is what matters. You don’t have to take it on all at once, and if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, call the pros for some tips or to get some extra help.
