Keeping your home clean and organized can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it becomes much more manageable. Many professional organizers have developed simple, effective cleaning hacks that save time and reduce stress.
These hacks focus on practical techniques that help you maintain a tidy space without spending hours on chores. You’ll find that small changes in your routine can lead to big improvements in how your home feels and functions.
Handle items only once rule – deal with clutter immediately
When you pick up an item, make a quick decision about what to do with it. You can file it, act on it, toss it, or pass it on.
This approach stops clutter from piling up in your space. You avoid going back and forth with the same things.
Try to spend no more than a few minutes on small tasks. You’ll keep your focus and make steady progress without getting distracted.
Hang an over-the-door organizer for cleaning supplies
You can save a lot of space by hanging an over-the-door organizer on a closet or utility room door. It keeps bottles, brushes, and small tools within easy reach without cluttering your countertops.
These organizers often have pockets or shelves perfect for storing sprays, gloves, and dusters. Choose one with adjustable hooks or straps for a secure fit on most doors.
This simple setup helps you keep your cleaning supplies neat and accessible, making your routine quicker and less stressful.
Try Swedish Death Cleaning method to declutter sentimentally
You can start by sorting through your belongings with the idea of easing the load for yourself and others. This method encourages you to thoughtfully choose what items truly matter to you.
It’s about making space for what brings you joy now, rather than holding on to everything for the future.
By doing this gradually, you reduce stress and create a calmer environment without feeling overwhelmed.
Swedish death cleaning helps you focus on meaningful possessions and lets go of clutter tied to unnecessary guilt or obligation.
Skip folding underwear – roll or stash for easy access
You don’t have to fold your underwear the traditional way. Rolling them tightly saves you space and makes it easy to grab what you need without disturbing the rest.
Try flipping the waistband over your roll to keep it secure. This way, your drawer stays neat, and you won’t have to refold constantly.
If rolling isn’t your thing, stash underwear in separate compartments or small bins. It keeps everything visible and easy to find without extra effort.
Adopt ‘a place for everything’ mantra for simple tidying
You’ll find tidying easier when every item has its own designated spot. This habit helps reduce clutter because you know exactly where things belong.
By putting things away immediately after use, you prevent mess from piling up. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in your daily routine.
This mantra also saves time. Instead of searching for items, you spend less effort maintaining order and more time enjoying your space.
Use clear spray bottles for custom cleaning solutions
Using clear spray bottles lets you see exactly what’s inside, making it easier to keep track of your cleaning solutions. You can mix your own natural cleaners, like vinegar and water, and label the bottle for quick reference.
Clear bottles also help you avoid confusion between products, reducing the chance of using the wrong cleaner. Plus, they look neat and uniform when stored together on shelves or in cabinets.
Microfiber cloths for streak-free surfaces
You can clean windows, mirrors, and glass without worrying about streaks by using microfiber cloths. These cloths work well with just water, avoiding the need for chemicals.
They are soft and lint-free, so your surfaces stay polished and clear. Having a pack of several cloths makes it easy to handle different areas without spreading dirt.
Using microfiber cloths is a simple way to keep your home sparkling with minimal effort. They are a handy tool every organizer recommends.
Squeegee to clean pet hair from carpets and upholstery
You can use a rubber squeegee to easily lift pet hair from carpets and furniture. Just dampen the area slightly with water to help loosen the hair.
Pull the squeegee slowly across the surface, applying gentle pressure. The hair will clump together for easy removal.
This method works well in places your vacuum might miss, like carpet corners or upholstery crevices. It’s a simple tool that can make pet hair cleanup less frustrating.
Use a lint roller to clean lampshades and fabric surfaces
You can quickly remove dust and small debris from lampshades using a lint roller. It’s gentle enough to avoid damage, unlike some cloths or vacuum attachments.
This hack works well on fabric surfaces like curtains and upholstery too. Just roll the lint roller over the area, and it picks up dust easily.
Be cautious with delicate or paper lampshades; test gently or avoid using the roller there. This simple tool saves time and keeps your home looking tidy.
Store frequently used items at eye level for quick reach
Keep your most-used cleaning supplies at eye level so you can grab them easily without bending or stretching. This saves time and makes your routine smoother.
Use clear bins or open shelves to keep these items visible. You’ll avoid digging through clutter and stay organized.
Place backup or seasonal supplies on higher or lower shelves. That way, your everyday essentials stay front and center.
Use drawer dividers to keep small items organized
You can use drawer dividers to create separate spaces for your small items. This helps prevent things like jewelry, office supplies, or cables from getting tangled or lost.
Dividers make it easier to find what you need quickly. They also remind you to keep only what fits, encouraging a tidier space.
Try using dividers in different drawers, such as your dresser or desk, to keep everything neat and simple.
Clean as you go in the kitchen to avoid buildup
Keep a sink filled with hot, soapy water before you start cooking. This lets you drop in dirty tools as you use them.
Wipe down countertops and the stovetop right after use. This prevents grease and crumbs from sticking and building up over time.
Cleaning spills immediately helps keep your kitchen safe and clutter-free. You avoid stains and reduce mess that takes longer to clean later.
Set a timer for 10-minute daily tidying sprints
You can make tidying feel less overwhelming by setting a timer for just 10 minutes each day. This keeps you focused and helps avoid burnout.
Start your timer and tackle one area, like a countertop or a corner of a room. When the timer goes off, stop and celebrate the progress you made.
Doing this daily builds a simple routine that prevents clutter from piling up. It’s a small habit with steady results.
