Cleaning can feel overwhelming when your time is limited and chores keep piling up. Finding ways to speed up the process without sacrificing results can make your routine much easier and less stressful.
These 12 cleaning shortcuts are designed to help you get your space clean quickly and efficiently, even on your busiest days. With simple strategies, you can cut down on effort and still keep things tidy.
Microwave a bowl of water with lemon for 3-5 minutes and let steam to loosen grime
Place a bowl of water with lemon slices or lemon juice in your microwave. Heat it on high for 3 to 5 minutes until the water boils.
Keep the microwave door closed for a few more minutes. The steam will soften up any stuck-on food or grime. Afterward, wipe the inside with a cloth or sponge. This method makes cleaning easier and avoids harsh chemicals.
Use an old pillowcase to easily dust ceiling fan blades without spreading dust
You can clean your ceiling fan blades without making a mess by slipping an old pillowcase over each blade. Gently wipe the blade inside the pillowcase to trap dust and prevent it from falling.
After cleaning each blade, shake the pillowcase outside to get rid of the dust. Then toss it in the wash for easy cleanup. This method saves time and keeps your space cleaner.
Keep a squeegee in the shower to quickly wipe down walls after use
You can keep a squeegee in your shower to wipe down walls right after you finish. This helps remove water droplets that would otherwise leave hard water spots or soap scum.
Using a squeegee regularly won’t replace a deep clean, but it reduces buildup and keeps the glass and tiles looking fresher longer. Just a quick swipe takes seconds and cuts down on future scrubbing.
Wear rubber gloves and rub surfaces to remove pet hair fast
Put on a pair of rubber gloves before you start. The rubber creates friction, making pet hair stick to your gloves instead of the surface.
Rub your gloved hand over sofas, carpets, or clothes. The hair will ball up and come off easily.
This method saves time and avoids using sticky tapes or vacuum attachments. Plus, it works well on most fabrics.
Use disposable cleaning wipes for quick surface touch-ups without extra tools
Disposable cleaning wipes are great for quick touch-ups. You don’t need to gather extra tools or cleaning products.
They work well on surfaces like countertops, electronics, and doorknobs. Just grab a wipe and go.
Choose wipes designed for your needs, such as those for electronics or heavy-duty cleaning. They’re easy to carry and use anytime.
Declutter regularly to minimize objects and make cleaning faster
You’ll save time by clearing out unnecessary items often. When your space has fewer things, dusting and wiping surfaces takes less effort.
Try setting a timer for short decluttering sessions. Even 15 minutes a day can keep your home more organized and make bigger cleanups easier.
Focus on problem areas like drawers or countertops. Keeping these spots tidy helps prevent clutter from piling up again.
Try the ‘clean the first thing you see’ rule to build momentum
When you start cleaning, focus on the first messy spot you notice. It could be a cluttered table or a dirty sink.
Cleaning that one thing immediately gives you a quick win. This small success helps build your motivation to keep going.
You don’t have to plan or think too much. Just take action on whatever catches your eye first, and momentum will follow naturally.
Dust from top to bottom to avoid re-cleaning lower surfaces
Start dusting from the highest points in a room, like ceiling fans, shelves, or cabinet tops. Dust falls as you clean, so tackling upper surfaces first means you won’t have to redo the lower ones.
Use a microfiber cloth or an electrostatic duster to trap dust effectively. This way, you minimize dust flying around and resettling on freshly cleaned areas.
Finishing with floors ensures any dust that drops is picked up last, so your whole space feels cleaner with less effort.
Steam-clean your microwave regularly to save scrubbing time
You can clean your microwave quickly by using steam. Just heat a cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl for 3 to 5 minutes.
The steam loosens grime and makes it easier to wipe down. Adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice can boost the effect.
After steaming, carefully use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe the inside. This method helps you avoid tough scrubbing and saves time.
Use a damp microfiber cloth for streak-free windows and mirrors
You can easily get streak-free windows and mirrors with a damp microfiber cloth. Just wet the cloth slightly and wring it out well before wiping your glass surfaces.
Microfiber traps dust and dirt without scratching, and you usually only need water—no harsh chemicals required. Avoid fabric softeners when washing your cloth to keep it effective.
Clean baseboards with a damp sponge or magic eraser to save time
You can quickly clean your baseboards using a damp sponge. Simply wet it, wring out excess water, and wipe down the surface to remove dust and dirt.
For tougher marks, try a magic eraser. It works well on scuffs and stains without much effort.
Spraying a gentle cleaner before wiping can help loosen grime. This method keeps your baseboards neat with minimal hassle.