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The Only Cleaning Tips You Will Ever Need

By Orgesta Tolaj

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28 September 2023

Cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting supplies

© Kelly Sikkema / Unsplash

Cleaning is definitely something we all have trouble doing at times. With long working hours, tough study sessions, or just no time to prioritize, cleaning can become quite a troublesome worry. Just thinking about all the rooms, nooks, and crannies that need to be cleaned, can immediately throw you off so you will not want to clean anymore. However, there is a way around it, and we can help! Keep on reading to find out more about what cleaning tips you need to follow to make this entire process easier for you.

The Three Cleaning Tips You Need to Try Out Today

It is easy as one, two, three! Follow these three tips for the best cleaning outcomes:

1. Focus on the Air Quality

Achieving a genuinely clean home is often immediately noticeable through its fragrance, and there’s nothing quite as rewarding as entering a fresh-smelling room after a thorough cleaning session. While it’s crucial to address the common sources of odors, there are various other effective methods to deodorize your living space and infuse it with a delightful aroma. These techniques include cleaning soft surfaces, introducing houseplants, and investing in an air purifier.

air purifier
© Mor Shani / Unsplash

One particularly effective and favorite odor-eliminating trick that we highly recommend is to soak a cotton ball in vanilla extract and place it on a small dish at the back of your refrigerator shelf – give it a try, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised! By incorporating these scent-enhancing strategies into your cleaning routine, you’ll be able to breathe freely and enjoy the fresh atmosphere of your now impeccably clean home.

2. Take Care of the Kitchen Mess

Begin by using a slightly damp microfiber cloth to gently remove dust from open shelves and the items displayed on them.

Afterward, pay attention to your countertop appliances. Give your toaster a vigorous shake over the trash to dislodge crumbs, use a toothbrush to meticulously clean the blades of your unplugged blender, and for particularly grimy air fryer components, consider soaking them.

When it comes to cleaning your countertops, it’s essential to consider the material. For instance, cleaning quartz is simpler and requires less maintenance compared to marble. To effectively clean your stovetop, employ a mixture of dish soap and water, vinegar, or a specialized non-abrasive cleaner, using a sponge. Don’t forget to meticulously clean the oven door, ensuring every smudge and splatter is removed.

messy kitchen
© Wallace Chuck / Pexels

For baking sheets that have seen better days, rejuvenate them using pantry ingredients and a bit of elbow grease. Moving on to the sink, if you have a stainless steel one, scrub it in the direction of the grain and disinfect the drain. Additionally, empty the trash and recycling containers, giving them a thorough wipe down with disinfectant.

Finally, complete the cleaning process by sweeping and vacuuming the floor, following the appropriate method for your specific flooring type. With your kitchen sparkling clean from top to bottom, you’ll be able to enjoy a refreshed and inviting cooking space.

3. Get Rid of Bigger Messes

Regular maintenance is essential, but for a thorough deep clean, focus your attention on specific areas. Begin by disinfecting the area around the toilet bowl meticulously. Next, tackle the grout lines, using an old toothbrush in conjunction with a paste made from baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Don’t forget the often-overlooked shower drain, which can be a breeding ground for buildup.

Expanding beyond the bathroom, there are additional bothersome areas in homes that require attention. Take a look at your windows—when was the last time you cleaned your blinds? Blinds, much like baseboards, tend to silently gather dust and grime over time. Dusting them can be a challenging task, but there are several effective solutions available to restore your blinds to a pristine condition.

messy room
© user15285612 / FreePik

Next, it is time to address those lingering carpet stains that you may have been neglecting. Utilize homemade stain removal solutions to tackle these unsightly blemishes. Placing a fan nearby can expedite the drying process and prevent the development of mold.

Last but not least, do not overlook the need to eliminate unpleasant odors emanating from your garbage disposal. If it seems like these odors have become a permanent fixture in your home, don’t fret! You can conquer them using a combination of baking soda, vinegar, and just 15 minutes of your time.

Cleaning Tips for Different Rooms

Are you having trouble with a specific room? Here are some cleaning tips to consider:

The Kitchen

In the kitchen, maintaining daily cleaning routines can prevent the accumulation of time-consuming messes later on. This involves wiping down surfaces, regularly attending to the refrigerator, and promptly washing dishes.

To motivate yourself to handle the dishes promptly, consider a simple trick: set a timer before starting to wash them and take note of how little time it actually takes to complete the task. This perspective shift can make it easier to tackle the chore. Additionally, keeping the sink clean, especially the faucet, is crucial. Regularly wiping it with an all-purpose cleaner helps eliminate bacteria and food particles, which is especially important considering the hands that often touch the faucet, even after handling raw chicken.

cleaning tips for wooden messy kitchen
© Jason Leung / Unsplash

Sponges, frequently used in the kitchen, should also be cleaned regularly. This can be done by either running them through the dishwasher or using the microwave. When using the microwave method, ensure the sponge is metal-free, wet it thoroughly, and microwave it for two minutes, handling it carefully afterward due to the heat.

If your sponge holder shows signs of mold or bacterial buildup, you can use a toothbrush dipped in bleach or white vinegar to scrub it clean. However, avoid combining both bleach and vinegar as it can create a hazardous chemical reaction. Afterward, wash the sponge caddy with hot, soapy water or include it in a dishwasher cycle.

The Bathroom

You can ensure a consistently pleasant and hygienic bathroom space by doing the following:

1. Wipe Surfaces Daily: To prevent the buildup of grime and soap scum, make it a habit to wipe down bathroom surfaces daily. A quick wipe of countertops, sinks, and faucets with an all-purpose cleaner can go a long way in maintaining a sparkling bathroom.

2. Clear the Clutter: Ensure that personal care items, cosmetics, and toiletries are organized and stored neatly. Regularly check for expired products and dispose of them, keeping your bathroom uncluttered and functional.

3. Regularly Clean the Toilet: Regular cleaning of the toilet bowl with a disinfectant helps prevent stains and odors. Don’t forget to clean the exterior and handle as well.

4. Address Grout Lines: Over time, grout lines between tiles can accumulate dirt and mold. Use an old toothbrush and a mixture of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to scrub grout lines for a fresh and hygienic look.

5. Shower and Tub Maintenance: After each use, wipe down the shower or tub to prevent soap scum and water spots from building up. Consider using a squeegee for this task.

The Bedroom

Maintaining a tidy and organized bedroom doesn’t require a lot of effort, but it can make a significant difference. Simple tasks like making the bed and relocating cups and glasses to the kitchen each morning can greatly enhance the overall appearance of your bedroom.

Make Your Bed

Establishing the habit of making your bed daily is a beneficial practice. Here are a few reasons why:

  • It gives your bedroom a neat and put-together look, creating a welcoming environment.
  • If you have pets, making the bed can help prevent pet hair, dander, and drool from getting on your sheets.
  • The act of turning down a well-made bed at night can signal to your brain that it is time for restful sleep.
  • Climbing into a neat bed is undeniably comforting and satisfying, especially if you have had a rough day.

Do you have any cleaning tips that work wonders for you? Are there specific challenges you face when it comes to keeping your living spaces tidy? Please feel free to share your thoughts and insights!

You might also want to read: 10+ Expert Tips for a Clutter-Free Home Organization

Orgesta Tolaj

Your favorite introvert who is buzzing around the Hive like a busy bee!

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