A clean and tidy home not only provides a welcoming environment but also contributes to our overall well-being. However, when you have children and a husband, the house can get crazy fast. There are times when I look at my house and wonder how on earth it could have gotten this bad! Fortunately, I’ve come up with a system that allows me to clean my whole house efficiently and effectively. Here are my tips:
- Gather Your Cleaning Supplies:
Before you start cleaning, gather all the necessary cleaning supplies. This typically includes microfiber cloths, all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfectant spray, a broom, a vacuum cleaner, a mop, gloves, and any specialized cleaning products for specific surfaces or areas. - Declutter and Organize:
Before diving into cleaning, take a few moments to declutter and organize. Put away items that are out of place and remove any unnecessary clutter. This step not only makes cleaning easier but also provides a clean canvas to work with. - Create a Cleaning Plan:
To avoid getting overwhelmed, create a cleaning plan and break down tasks into manageable chunks. You can choose to clean room by room or divide tasks based on the type of cleaning required, such as dusting, vacuuming, and mopping. Prioritize the areas that require immediate attention. - Dust from Top to Bottom:
Start by dusting surfaces from top to bottom. Use a microfiber cloth or a duster to remove dust from furniture, shelves, light fixtures, and ceiling fans. Don’t forget to clean hard-to-reach areas and corners. - Wipe Down Surfaces:
Next, wipe down surfaces with an appropriate cleaning solution. Use an all-purpose cleaner for general surfaces like countertops, tables, and cabinets. For glass surfaces, use a glass cleaner for streak-free results. Remember to clean mirrors, windows, and glass doors as well. - Deep Clean the Kitchen and Bathroom:
The kitchen and bathroom require special attention. In the kitchen, clean appliances, countertops, sinks, and the stovetop. Don’t forget to scrub the inside of the microwave and clean the refrigerator if needed. In the bathroom, clean the toilet, bathtub or shower, sink, and countertops. Use a disinfectant spray to kill germs and bacteria effectively. - Vacuum and Sweep:
Move on to the floors and give them a thorough clean. Start by vacuuming carpets and rugs, paying attention to high-traffic areas. For hard floors, sweep or use a dust mop to remove loose debris before mopping. - Mop the Floors:
Finish off by mopping the floors. Choose an appropriate cleaner based on the type of flooring you have. Pay extra attention to spills or stains and ensure the floors are left sparkling clean and dry. - Don’t Forget the Small Details:
While cleaning, don’t overlook the small details that make a big difference. Dust blinds and curtains, clean light switches and doorknobs, and wash or change bedding and towels regularly. - Maintain Regular Cleaning Habits:
To keep your home consistently clean, develop good daily cleaning habits. Clean the kitchen after meals, give your bathrooms a quick clean whenever they are in need, and do regular house pick-ups.
With a systematic approach, a well-planned cleaning routine, and the right tools, you can efficiently and effectively clean your home. Now when I am planning on doing a whole house cleaning like this, I enlist some help with my kids. I have little toddlers and having them around will make it all take double or even triple the time. On whole house cleaning days it can be a good time to let them watch their favorite movie, go to grandma’s for a couple hours, go out with daddy to the gym for an hour…you catch my drift.
