Cleaning your home can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially if you don’t know where to start. But with the right habits, it can become an enjoyable routine that leaves you feeling accomplished and your living space sparkling clean.
Here are 13 cleaning habits I’ve picked up over the years that have completely transformed my cleaning routine. These habits have not only made cleaning easier but have also helped me maintain a clean and organised home without feeling overwhelmed.
1. Decluttering Regularly
Decluttering is the first step to keeping your home clean and tidy. It’s amazing how much unnecessary stuff we accumulate over time. I make it a point to declutter every week. I go through every room and get rid of anything that I don’t use or need. This frees up a lot of space and makes cleaning much easier.
I also make a rule of not bringing anything new into my home unless I’ve made room for it by getting rid of something else. This habit helps me avoid accumulating clutter and keeps my home feeling spacious and organised.
2. Cleaning as You Go
One of the best cleaning habits I’ve adopted is cleaning as I go. Whether I’m cooking, doing laundry, or working in my home office, I make it a point to clean up after myself immediately.
This habit prevents messes from building up and becoming overwhelming. For example, after cooking a meal, I immediately wash the dishes and wipe down the counters. This habit keeps my kitchen clean and makes it much easier to cook the next meal. The same principle applies to other areas of my home.
3. Using the Right Cleaning Tools
Having the right cleaning tools can make a world of difference. I’ve found that investing in a good vacuum cleaner, a microfiber mop, and quality cleaning products has made my cleaning tasks much easier and more efficient.
For example, a good vacuum cleaner can effortlessly pick up dust, pet hair, and other debris. A microfiber mop is great for cleaning hard floors without leaving streaks. And quality cleaning products can remove dirt and grime without much effort.
4. Setting a Cleaning Schedule
Setting a cleaning schedule has been a game-changer for me. I used to clean whenever I felt like it, which often led to procrastination and a lot of last-minute cleaning stress. Now, I have a set cleaning schedule that I stick to.
I break down my cleaning tasks into daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. For example, I vacuum and dust daily, clean the bathroom weekly, and deep clean the kitchen monthly. This schedule keeps my home clean without feeling overwhelming.
5. Prioritizing High Traffic Areas
High traffic areas like the living room, kitchen, and bathroom tend to get dirty quickly. I’ve found that prioritizing these areas in my cleaning routine keeps my home looking clean and fresh most of the time.
I make it a point to clean these areas first before moving on to less frequently used areas. This habit ensures that the most used areas of my home are always clean.
6. Making Beds Every Morning
Making my bed every morning is a simple habit that makes a big difference. A made bed immediately makes a room look cleaner and more organized.
It also sets a positive tone for the day. Starting the day with a small accomplishment like making the bed can motivate you to accomplish more tasks throughout the day.
7. Keeping Cleaning Supplies Handy
Keeping cleaning supplies in every room makes impromptu cleaning sessions much easier. I keep a small basket of cleaning supplies in each room, including disinfectant wipes, a microfiber cloth, and a small handheld vacuum.
This habit ensures that I can quickly clean up any messes as they happen and keep my home looking clean and tidy.
8. Cleaning Top to Bottom
One of the most effective cleaning techniques I’ve discovered is cleaning from top to bottom. This means starting at the highest point and working your way down to the floor.
This method ensures that any dust or debris that falls to the floor during cleaning is cleaned up in the final stage. It’s a great way to avoid having to re-clean areas.
9. Regularly Changing Air Filters
Regularly changing the air filters in your HVAC system can significantly improve the air quality in your home. Clean air filters can trap dust, pollen, and other allergens, preventing them from circulating in your home.
I make it a habit to change my air filters every three months. This not only improves the air quality in my home but also helps my HVAC system run more efficiently.
10. Using Natural Cleaning Products
Switching to natural cleaning products has been a great decision for me. Not only are they better for the environment, but they’re also safer for my family and pets.
I now make my own all-purpose cleaner using vinegar, water, and essential oils. It’s a powerful cleaner that smells great and doesn’t expose my family to harmful chemicals.
11. Doing a 15-Minute Nightly Cleanup
Before going to bed, I spend 15 minutes tidying up. I put away any items that are out of place, wipe down the counters, and do a quick sweep of the floors.
This habit ensures that I wake up to a clean home every morning. It’s a great way to end the day and start the new one on a positive note.
12. Cleaning out the Fridge Weekly
A clean fridge is essential for food safety. I make it a habit to clean out my fridge every week before I do my grocery shopping.
I throw out any expired food, wipe down the shelves, and organize the remaining food. This habit keeps my fridge clean and makes grocery shopping and meal planning easier.
13. Keeping a Donation Box Handy
Finally, I always keep a donation box in my home. Whenever I come across items that I no longer need or use, I put them in the box.
When the box is full, I take it to a local charity. This habit keeps my home clutter-free and helps others in my community.
In conclusion, adopting these cleaning habits has dramatically improved my cleaning routine and the overall cleanliness of my home. I hope they can do the same for you. Happy cleaning!