Doing a nightly pickup
The last thing anyone wants to do after a long day is any work whatsoever. It’s completely normal to resent the idea of cleaning in the evening, but you can shift to a consistent, “good enough” approach that’ll keep mess from accumulating. Doing a quick nightly pickup and tidy-up can make a big difference. Even small things like folding throw blankets or keeping a catch-all tray or basket in living areas can make a huge difference. Just put things away each day, and that will help avoid large piles of messes that take longer to work through later.
Squeegeeing after every shower
Don’t underestimate the power of a good ol’ squeegee. This affordable, handy tool can go a long way in keeping your shower clean and preventing mold and mildew. It helps cut down on soap scum and hard water buildup. Just keep a squeegee in your shower and use it to remove excess water from glass, walls, and the floor after every shower. It’ll become a quick habit that saves you from more regular, deep scrubbing.
Applying a ceramic coating spray to glass shower doors
You can also use a ceramic coating spray on your glass shower doors. This puts a clear protective coating on the door that allows soap scum and hard water to not stick as easily. This keeps the doors clean a lot longer, so you don’t have to scrub them or deep clean them as often.
Sticking to a routine for dishwasher and washing machine cleaning
People tend to overlook the fact that the appliances that do the washing for them also need cleaning themselves. Picking a specific day each month to drop a cleaning tablet in your dishwasher and washing machine will keep them working their best and lasting longer.
Setting up the sink for a weekly deep clean
The kitchen sink is one of the dirtiest places in the home, so it needs a regular deep clean. Keep a baking soda and lemon essential oil mix under the sink, and use it to scrub the sink and drain area weekly to eliminate germs and prevent grime and odors.
Keeping a soap dispensing brush in the bathroom
Keeping a soap dispensing dish brush under the sink allows you to quickly clean the sink bowl whenever you notice it’s dirty. You can also take it in the shower with you once a week to clean the shelves, walls, and floor, which helps keep the bathroom cleaner longer.
Wiping down hardware and faucets after showering
Removing excess moisture from bathrooms is key. After squeegeeing the shower, wipe off all the hardware and faucets using a microfiber cloth to absorb the moisture and prevent mineral buildup, water spots, and soap scum. Don’t forget to wipe down the shower head and other hard-to-reach areas.
Sorting mail upon entry
One of the fastest ways that clutter sneaks up on you is through stacks of unopened mail. Make it a habit to sort mail and papers the moment they come in – open letters, throw away junk mail, file important documents, and pay bills right away. Establish designated paper zones in your home to keep everything organized.
Wiping down all countertops daily
Don’t ignore the everyday grime on your most frequently used surfaces. Wipe down both your bathroom and kitchen counters daily to inhibit bacteria growth and maintain a healthy cooking space. Just keep a bottle of all-purpose cleaner handy and give them a quick spray and wipe each evening.
Routinely removing things from areas they don’t belong
Regularly removing items from places where they don’t belong is one of the best ways to stay ahead of the mess. Go room to room and take out whatever doesn’t belong, store it in the right area, or get rid of things you’re not using anymore.
Giving everything a zone
Grouping items together based on how you use them, or “zoning your home”, prevents clutter and enhances efficiency. Designate zones in the kitchen, living room, and other areas for specific tasks and activities to optimize your space.
Establishing a dedicated drop zone
Creating a drop zone in your entryway is an easy way to maintain order. Have a place where you can put all your everyday items like keys, purses, and shoes when you come in the door. This prevents them from getting scattered throughout your home.
Tidying as you go
One of the best ways to save time on cleaning is to make it a habit to tidy up as you go. Simple things like making your bed, putting dishes straight in the dishwasher, and decluttering your desk before a call become second nature and prevent bigger messes.
Leaving shoes at the front door
Leaving your shoes at the front door is crucial for keeping your floors clean. Shoes track in all kinds of dirt, dust, and bacteria from outside, so containing them to the entryway makes it much easier to maintain the rest of your home.
Eliminating lingering moisture
Eliminating lingering moisture is key for preventing mold, mildew, and musty odors. Do things like leaving washing machine and dishwasher doors open after cycles, wiping condensation, and using a dehumidifier to help moisture evaporate quickly.
