Most homeowners can appreciate a Home Cleaning Checklist with Quick Tips on keeping a clean and tidy living space.
Today, we show you the best way to clean your home from top to bottom, whether your schedule is limited to weekly or monthly cleaning.
This article also includes 12 Tips for maintaining a clean home, making it easy to divide and conquer while creating a workable cleaning routine!
From battling dust bunnies to banishing stubborn stains, achieving a clean house requires strategic planning and efficient execution.
Admittedly, this article was generated, in part, from my experience working with real estate clients.
As a former realtor, there are inevitable listing appointments that require delicate conversations with home sellers who are not so tidy or may even border on hoarding.
In those situations, you quickly observe that one person’s clean house is another person’s cluttered or dirty house.
In my case, we would direct the seller to hire a professional cleaner; however, today, I will share some invaluable tips to help you master the art of household cleanliness yourself.
PS: Following a cleaning routine is not only simple but can also be one of the most gratifying parts of Home Ownership.
How to Maintain a Clean Home: Simple DIY Steps
1. Declutter Regularly
Clutter is the enemy of a clean home. Make decluttering a regular part of your routine by sorting through belongings and removing items you no longer need.
Invest in storage solutions such as baskets, bins, and shelves to keep things organized and out of sight.
2. Establish a Cleaning Schedule
Consistency is vital when it comes to maintaining a clean house. Create a weekly cleaning schedule that outlines specific tasks for each day of the week. See our samples for a Weekly or Monthly Schedule later in this article.
By breaking down cleaning chores into manageable chunks, you’ll prevent overwhelming yourself and ensure that no area of your home goes neglected.
3. Invest in Quality Cleaning Supplies
Stock up on high-quality cleaning supplies that are effective and safe for use in your home. Look for eco-friendly options that are free of harsh chemicals and toxins.
Having the right tools at your disposal will make cleaning tasks more accessible and efficient.
4. Focus on High-Traffic Areas
Prioritize cleaning high-traffic areas of your home, such as the kitchen and bathroom, where dirt and grime accumulate quickly.
Regularly wipe down countertops, sinks, and appliances to prevent the buildup of bacteria and germs.
5. Use Microfiber Cloths
Microfiber cloths are a game-changer when it comes to cleaning. These ultra-absorbent cloths are highly effective at trapping dirt and dust, making them ideal for wiping down surfaces and cleaning windows.
Best of all – they’re Washable, Reusable, and Environmentally friendly.
6. Tackle Stains Immediately
Don’t let stains linger and become more difficult to remove over time. Act quickly to tackle spills and stains as soon as they occur.
Use appropriate cleaning products and techniques to prevent permanent damage to your furniture, carpets, and upholstery.
7. Embrace the Power of Vinegar and Baking Soda
Here is one of our favorite “cleaning hacks,” which includes Vinegar and baking soda – two household staples that can work wonders when it comes to cleaning.
Use Vinegar to dissolve soap scum in the bathroom and remove stubborn stains from surfaces.
Baking soda is excellent for deodorizing carpets, freshening mattresses, and scrubbing grease and grime.
8. Make Your Bed Every Morning
Starting your day with a neatly made bed sets the tone for a tidy home. Get into the habit of making your bed every morning to instantly make your bedroom look cleaner and more inviting.
It only takes a few minutes but can significantly impact the overall appearance of your space.
9. Don’t Forget About Maintenance Tasks
In addition to regular cleaning, essential maintenance tasks help keep your home in top condition.
This includes changing air filters, inspecting and repairing caulking and seals, and cleaning out gutters and downspouts.
By staying on top of these tasks, you’ll prevent costly repairs and ensure your home remains in optimal condition.
10. Enlist Help When Needed
Maintaining a clean house is a team effort, so don’t hesitate to enlist the help of family members or roommates.
Assign specific chores to each person and work together to tackle cleaning tasks efficiently.
Alternatively, consider hiring professional cleaners for deep cleaning sessions to refresh your home thoroughly.
11. Create a Relaxing Cleaning Routine
Turn cleaning into a therapeutic and enjoyable activity by creating a relaxing atmosphere. Put on your favorite music or podcast, light scented candles, and treat yourself to a special cleaning playlist.
Infusing joy into cleaning will motivate you to keep your home clean and organized.
12. Practice Prevention
Finally, the best way to keep your home clean is to prevent messes from occurring.
Establish rules for household members, such as removing shoes at the door, using coasters to prevent water rings, and cleaning up spills immediately.
By taking proactive measures, you’ll minimize the required cleaning and enjoy a clean, clutter-free home.
Creating a “Weekly Home Cleaning Schedule”
Keeping a tidy and organized home requires more than just the occasional dusting and vacuuming.
Establish a monthly cleaning schedule that covers all areas of your home to maintain a consistently clean living space.
By breaking down cleaning tasks into manageable chunks and tackling them systematically, you can ensure that no corner goes overlooked.
Here’s a comprehensive monthly home cleaning schedule and checklist to help you stay on top of household chores:
Week 1: Kitchen Deep Clean
– Clean the refrigerator, discard expired items, and wipe down shelves and drawers.
– Degrease and sanitize kitchen appliances, including the stove, oven, and microwave.
– Scrub the sink and faucet to remove buildup and polish stainless steel surfaces.
– Wipe down cabinet exteriors and organize contents.
– Clean kitchen countertops and backsplash, paying particular attention to grout lines.
Week 2: Bathroom Refresh
– Scrub and disinfect the toilet, focusing on the bowl and exterior surfaces.
– Clean and sanitize the bathtub and shower, including shower doors or curtains.
– Wipe down bathroom countertops and vanities, removing hair, makeup, or product residue.
– Clean mirrors and glass surfaces using a streak-free glass cleaner.
– Wash bath mats, shower curtains, and towels.
Week 3: Bedroom and Living Areas
– Dust furniture, shelves, and decor throughout the bedroom and living areas.
– Vacuum or mop floors, paying attention to corners and under furniture.
– Wash bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and comforters.
– Rotate and flip mattresses to ensure even wear.
– Clean window sills, blinds, and curtains.
Week 4: Miscellaneous Tasks
– Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans, removing dust and cobwebs.
– Vacuum upholstered furniture and cushions to remove crumbs and debris.
– Wipe down baseboards and trim throughout the house.
– Clean air vents and replace HVAC filters as needed.
– Declutter and organize closets, donating or discarding items you no longer need.
That’s It! You’ve successfully cleaned your Entire Home in Four Weeks!
* Bonus Tip: How To Remove Hardwater Stains
Removing hard water stains from toilet bowls, sinks, and glass can be challenging, but there are several effective methods you can try:
- White Vinegar: Vinegar is acidic and can dissolve mineral deposits left by hard water. For toilet bowls, pour vinegar directly into the bowl, let it sit for several hours (or overnight), then scrub with a toilet brush and flush.
- For sinks and glass, soak a cloth or paper towel in vinegar and apply it to the stained area. Let it sit for a while before scrubbing and rinsing.
- Baking Soda Paste: Baking soda is abrasive and can help remove hard water stains. Mix baking soda with water and apply a paste to the stained area. Let it sit briefly before scrubbing it with a brush or sponge. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
- Lemon Juice: Lemon juice contains citric acid, which can break down mineral deposits. Cut a lemon in half and rub it directly onto the stains. Let it sit for a while before scrubbing and rinsing.
- Commercial Cleaners: Many commercial cleaners specifically formulated to remove hard water stains are available. Look for products containing ingredients like hydrochloric acid or phosphoric acid.
- Follow the instructions on the product carefully, as some cleaners may require dilution or specific application methods.
- Pumice Stone: A pumice stone can effectively remove stubborn stains from toilet bowls. Wet the stone and gently rub it against the stains. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure, especially on delicate surfaces like glass, as pumice stone can scratch.
- CLR (Calcium, Lime, and Rust Remover): This powerful cleaner dissolves tough calcium, lime, and rust stains. Follow the instructions on the product for safe and effective use.
- Automatic Toilet Bowl Cleaners: Consider using automatic toilet bowl cleaners designed to prevent and remove stains regularly.
These products typically release cleaning agents with each flush, helping to keep the toilet bowl clean and free of hard water buildup.
Regardless of your chosen method, wearing gloves and ensuring proper ventilation when using cleaning products is essential.
Additionally, always spot-test in a small, inconspicuous area before applying any cleaner to a larger surface to ensure compatibility and prevent damage.
Monthly Home Cleaning Checklist:
If Your Daily Schedule doesn’t allow time to finish a weekly cleaning schedule, consider creating a Monthly Cleaning Checklist instead.
Using a Monthly Cleaning Checklist will help you get to each of the most critical areas of your house.
You can Print and Place the Checklist provided in the link above or create your own, including the tasks that make the most sense to your needs.
Finally, place it somewhere conspicuous, like on your Refrigerator door, and then Tackle Cleaning One Room at a time!
1. Kitchen:
– Refrigerator
– Appliances
– Sink and faucet
– Cabinets
– Countertops and backsplash
2. Bathroom:
– Toilet
– Bathtub and shower
– Countertops and vanities
– Mirrors and glass surfaces
– Bath mats, shower curtains, and towels
3. Bedroom and Living Areas:
– Dusting
– Vacuuming or mopping floors
– Washing bedding
– Cleaning window sills, blinds, and curtains
4. Miscellaneous:
– Light fixtures and ceiling fans
– Upholstered furniture
– Baseboards and trim
– Air vents and HVAC filters
– Closet organization
This monthly home cleaning schedule and checklist allow you to maintain a clean and organized living environment without feeling overwhelmed.
Remember to adapt the schedule to suit your household’s needs and preferences, and don’t hesitate to enlist the help of family members or roommates to share the workload.
You can enjoy a clean, comfortable home year-round with regular attention and consistent effort.
Wrapping Up:
In conclusion, maintaining a clean house requires dedication, consistency, and a somewhat strategic approach.
By implementing these home cleaning tips and prioritizing cleanliness, you can achieve a spotless home that’s inviting and comfortable for you and your family.
Remember, a clean home isn’t just aesthetically pleasing but promotes a healthier and happier living environment for everyone.
References and Additional Reading:
- Are you concerned about Paint Fumes? – Healthline.Com
- 25 Clever Storage Solutions – House Beautiful.com
- 13 Cabinet Painting Mistakes To Avoid – Good Housekeeping.Com
- Best Storage Baskets to Declutter your Home – The Spruce.com
- Keep Your Kitchen Tile Grout Looking Like New – BestHomeGear.com
- Types of Paint Finish (Sheen) – Homedepot.com
