So it’s that time of the year again, the one we all dread, house cleaning and preparing for the next season. But how can you preserve energy and time, while still maximizing cleaning your home? If you’re one of the many who struggles with getting around to home cleaning regularly or are just getting started with this independent chore, then read on.
Oddly enough, one of the most common, time-consuming cleaning mistakes many people make is not ensuring that first, they have the necessary cleaning supplies, and second, that their cleaning supplies are clean. After all, the last thing you want to do is clean your home with partially or dirty supplies and wind up not getting the most from your time and efforts, or even worst, making it even dirtier than when you started. So, whether it’s your mop, broom, or toilet-bowl brush, make sure you clean it off and wash it first with the right cleaning chemicals to ensure you get it right, the first time.
Are you cleaning top-down, starting in the middle, or struggle to reach and clean certain places in your home? If so, don’t hesitate to (safely) utilize a stepping-stool or ladder to get the hard to reach places, and ideally start from the top. Starting from the bottom up, such as your floor to your ceilings for example, can make a mess, double the amount of work required to get the job done, or worse require additional cleaning methods or tools – like having to vacuum a rug twice because the dirt from your lights or ceiling is now engrained into it again.
Do you address stains when they first happen? A very common issue we see with home cleaning is that people make the mistake of not addressing stains right away, and outside of rugs and the more obvious, sensitive materials even hard tile floors and walls can retain (permanently) stains if not addressed. If you’re uncertain of what types of chemicals or at-home remedy to use for your spills, just browse the web, and do your research to ensure you don’t damage any special types of wood, or make the mistake of using an abrasive chemical like bleach on the wrong surface that will cause permanent marks.
One of the most effective ways to maximize house cleaning, and minimize the amount of necessary work and time when this chore comes around – you guessed it – is to clean it regularly. This prevents unwanted dust, dirt, bacteria and even mold build-up, which can cost you both time and even money down the line if neglected for too long. Lastly, whether it’s your computer wires or other electronics, try to get in the habit of using (safe) ties to keep them bundled together neatly – so that when it’s time to dust and clean them the job is easier, and the dirt is kept relatively all in one place. Remember, the nooks and crannies you clean out now will not only prevent dirt buildup in the future, but also keep your home presentable, minimize bacteria, and keep it smelling fresh.