50 Expert Cleaning Tips to Keep Your Home Fresh and Tidy

Let’s face it, keeping a home clean is no small feat. With dust, dirt, and clutter constantly finding their way into our living spaces, it can feel like a never-ending battle. Whether you’re tackling a thorough seasonal cleaning or just trying to keep up with daily chores, there are plenty of expert tips and tricks that can help you get the job done efficiently. If you’re looking to spruce up your space and keep it looking its best, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled the 50 best cleaning tips to ensure your home stays fresh and tidy all year round.

Meet Our Cleaning Experts

• Roy Marcus
• Morgan Eberhard

Declutter First

Before diving into any cleaning tasks, it’s crucial to start by decluttering your space. Remove all unnecessary items and divide them into piles – things to recycle or toss, items to donate, and belongings that need to be put back in their proper place. Decluttering not only makes your space look tidier instantly but also makes deep cleaning a whole lot easier.

Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Preparation is key when it comes to cleaning. Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand to avoid interruptions during your cleaning session. Create a cleaning kit that includes essentials like all-purpose cleaner, microfiber towels, glass cleaners, dish soap, and various tools such as a vacuum, Swiffer, sponges, and scrubbing brushes. Store your supplies where you’ll use them most frequently to streamline your cleaning process.

Tip: Store bathroom cleaners in the bathroom and kitchen cleaners under the kitchen sink for easy access.

Start with Clean Tools

To ensure effective cleaning, always begin with clean tools. Dirty tools like mops, vacuums, and dusters can hinder your cleaning efforts and leave residue behind. Make it a habit to clean your tools after each use so they’re ready for the next time you need them.

Start at the Top

When cleaning vertical surfaces like walls or shelves, always start at the top and work your way down. This way, as you remove dust and dirt, any particles that fall will be captured by the next cleaning movement, preventing the need to backtrack and re-clean areas you’ve already tackled.

Vacuum Better

For a thorough clean and to remove as much dirt and dust as possible, vacuum in two directions – first following the pile of the carpet and then across it. Investing in a vacuum with HEPA filtration can also help improve air quality in your home by trapping allergens and odors as you clean.

Use the Best Cleaner for Stone Surfaces

When cleaning stone and granite surfaces, avoid using acidic cleaners like vinegar, as they can etch natural stone and marble. Instead, create a homemade stone cleaner by diluting one part dish soap in ten parts of water. For an extra cleaning boost, consider adding bleach. This solution will effectively clean stone surfaces without causing damage.

Refresh Your Sofa

Your sofa endures a lot of wear and tear, but you can easily refresh it by vacuuming thoroughly. Remove all cushions and pillows, then use your vacuum’s upholstery tool to clean every surface and crevice. Don’t forget to unfold sleeper sofa mattresses and vacuum both sides for a comprehensive clean.

Capture Dust on Window Treatments

Window treatments like drapery or blinds can quickly accumulate dust. Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment to trap and remove dust, starting from the top and working your way down. For washable drapes, toss them in the dryer on an air-only cycle to eliminate dust and allergens.

Tip: Immediately rehang washed drapes to prevent wrinkles.

Get Rid of Floor Scuffs

For pesky scuff marks on wood floors, a tennis ball can work wonders. Cut an X in a used tennis ball, place it over the scuff mark, and apply gentle pressure to buff it away. This quick and easy trick can help restore your floors to their former glory.

Clean Windows Like a Pro

For streak-free windows, clean with a 50:50 mixture of distilled white vinegar and water. Add a small amount of dish detergent for extra cleaning power and use a lint-free microfiber cloth to dry the glass. Consider cleaning your windows on slightly cloudy days to prevent streaking from the sun.

Wash Pet Bedding Correctly

Keep your pet’s bedding clean and odor-free by vacuuming it before washing. Use a hypoallergenic detergent and add an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent residue is removed. Regularly washing your pet’s bedding promotes their health and keeps your home smelling fresh.

Banish Fuzzy Lampshades

If your lampshades appear dusty or fuzzy, use a sticky lint roller or a disposable duster to lift away dust and debris. For pleated shades, opt for a disposable microstatic duster or a new paintbrush to effectively clean hard-to-reach areas.

Tip: Use a lint roller for quick and easy cleaning of lampshades.

Brighten Lightbulbs by Removing Dust

To improve the brightness of your lighting, clean dust and grime from lightbulbs using a microfiber cloth. Regularly dusting your lightbulbs can enhance their performance and prevent build-up that can affect light output.

Freshen Your Bed Pillows

Most pillows can be washed regularly to remove dust mites, body oils, and dander. However, solid-foam pillows should be spot-cleaned only, as they may not withstand machine washing. Washing your pillows not only keeps them clean but also helps maintain their shape and freshness.

Keep Your Mattress Clean and Fresh

Steam cleaning your mattress is an effective way to kill dust mites and refresh your bed. If you don’t have a steamer, sprinkle baking soda on the mattress, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it away. Regularly cleaning your mattress can reduce allergens and create a healthier sleeping environment.

Reduce Dust in Your Home

Changing HVAC filters and cleaning vent covers regularly can significantly reduce the amount of dust in your home. By maintaining your HVAC system, you can improve air quality and create a cleaner, healthier living environment for you and your family.

Quiet Your Bathroom Fan

If your bathroom fan is noisy, it may be due to dust accumulation on the blades. Cleaning the fan thoroughly can not only reduce noise but also improve ventilation in your bathroom. Regular maintenance of your bathroom fan can prolong its lifespan and ensure efficient performance.

Remove Dust From Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans and overhead light fixtures often collect dust and debris. Use a pillowcase or a disposable duster with an extendable handle to trap and remove dust from fan blades and fixtures. Regular cleaning of ceiling fans can improve air circulation and prevent dust buildup.

Keep Reusable Water Bottles Clean

Recent studies have shown that reusable water bottles can harbor more bacteria than toilet seats if not cleaned regularly. To clean your water bottle effectively, dismantle it into its individual parts and place them on the top rack of your dishwasher. Use hot water and a powerful detergent to ensure thorough cleaning and eliminate bacteria.

Tip: Disassemble all parts of the water bottle for a comprehensive clean in the dishwasher.

Add Cleaning to Your Screen Time

Regularly cleaning the screens of your electronic devices can improve your screen time experience and prevent smudges and debris buildup. Use lint-free tools to clean phone, laptop, and computer screens, and avoid spraying liquids directly on the screen to prevent damage.

Improve Your Showerhead Flow

Restore a sputtering showerhead to a steady flow by soaking it in distilled white vinegar to remove mineral deposits. This simple cleaning method can enhance your showering experience and prevent clogs in your showerhead.

Banish Water Spots on Glass Shower Doors

Keep your glass shower doors sparkling clean by drying them after each shower and regularly cleaning them with household products like white vinegar or lemon juice. Preventing water spots on glass shower doors can maintain their appearance and prevent soap scum buildup.

Say Goodbye to Soap Scum

Soap scum can accumulate on shower doors, tiles, and faucets when soap interacts with minerals in water. Quickly removing soap scum and switching to body wash can make cleaning easier and prevent buildup in your bathroom. Regular maintenance of your shower can keep it looking fresh and clean.

Use Your Vacuum to Prevent Fires

Lint buildup in clothes dryer vent systems can pose a fire hazard if not cleaned regularly. Use your vacuum to remove lint from the dryer vent at least once a year to reduce the risk of fires and ensure proper ventilation in your laundry room.

Get Cleaner Clothes With a Clean Washer

Maintaining a clean washing machine is essential for washing your clothes effectively and preventing musty odors. Regularly clean your washing machine to remove residue and keep your laundry smelling fresh and clean.

Get Better Tasting Coffee

If your coffee tastes off, it may be time to clean your coffee maker. Regular cleaning of single-cup makers, Moka pots, and drip coffee makers can remove mineral deposits that affect the flavor of your coffee. Keep your coffee maker clean to enjoy a better-tasting brew.

Make a Tasty Cup of Tea

For tea lovers, clean your electric or stovetop tea kettle regularly to ensure a fresh and flavorful brew. Cleaning your tea kettle can prevent mineral buildup and maintain the quality of your tea.

Get Rid of Smelly Drains

Kitchen and bathroom drains can become smelly due to trapped gases and residue build-up. Regularly cleaning and freshening drains can prevent odors and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. Use natural remedies like baking soda and vinegar to tackle stubborn odors and keep your drains smelling fresh.

Wash Your Dishwasher Filter

A dirty dishwasher filter can lead to unpleasant odors and inefficient cleaning. Locate the dishwasher filter and clean it regularly to ensure cleaner dishes and prevent foul smells in your dishwasher. Regular maintenance of your dishwasher can improve its performance and prolong its lifespan.

Run a Dishwasher Cleaning Cycle

After cleaning the dishwasher filter, run a full cleaning cycle with dishwasher tablets to remove residue and bacteria. Regularly running a cleaning cycle can prevent mold and mildew growth and maintain the cleanliness of your dishwasher.

Clean Surfaces, and Then Disinfect

Before disinfecting surfaces with wipes or sprays, it’s essential to clean the surface to remove dirt and grime. Cleaning first ensures that disinfectants work effectively and kill harmful bacteria and germs on surfaces.

Take Care of a Dirty Shower Curtain

Shower curtains can accumulate soap scum and mildew over time, leading to unpleasant odors. Regularly washing shower curtains in warm water with a heavy-duty detergent can remove buildup and keep your bathroom fresh and clean. Proper maintenance of your shower curtain can prevent mold growth and extend its lifespan.

Lift the Cloud From Drinking Glasses

Over time, drinking glasses can become cloudy due to hard water deposits and residue. Clean cloudy glassware with distilled white vinegar to restore their clarity and sparkle. Regular maintenance of your glassware can enhance its appearance and prevent buildup.

Restore Your Cast Iron Cookware

Cast iron cookware is durable and versatile but requires proper maintenance to prevent rust and food sticking. Regularly cleaning and seasoning your cast iron cookware can extend its lifespan and improve its cooking performance. Proper care of your cast iron pieces can ensure they last for generations to come.

Steam the Oven for Easier Cleaning

Steam cleaning your oven is a simple and effective way to loosen grease and grime for easy removal. Regular steam cleaning can prevent heavy buildup and make oven cleaning less of a chore. Keep your oven clean and well-maintained to ensure even cooking and optimal performance.

Don’t Forget to Steam Clean the Microwave

You can use the same steam cleaning method for cleaning your microwave. Adding lemon slices to the water can help remove food odors and stains from the interior of your microwave. Regularly cleaning your microwave can prevent odors and ensure it operates efficiently.

Create Homemade Cleaning Products

With basic ingredients found in your pantry, you can create homemade cleaning products for a variety of cleaning tasks. Using natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils can effectively clean and disinfect surfaces without harsh chemicals. DIY cleaning products are safe, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly alternatives to commercial cleaners.

A Garbage Disposal Deserves More Than Lemon Peels

While tossing lemon peels into the garbage disposal can freshen the drain temporarily, it’s important to clean all components of the disposal regularly. Proper cleaning and maintenance of your garbage disposal can prevent odors, clogs, and mechanical issues. Keep your disposal clean and fresh to maintain a healthy and odor-free kitchen.

Shine Stainless Steel

Stainless steel appliances can lose their shine due to fingerprints and smudges. Use dish soap and a microfiber cloth to clean and polish stainless steel surfaces, restoring their luster and beauty. Regular maintenance of stainless steel appliances can keep them looking brand new and prevent stains and streaks.

Enjoy Your Sterling Silver Pieces

Sterling silver jewelry and utensils can tarnish over time due to exposure to air and moisture. Regular cleaning and polishing of silver items can restore their shine and prevent tarnish. Proper care and storage of sterling silver pieces can ensure they remain beautiful and lustrous for years to come.

Relax on Clean Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture can accumulate dirt, pollen, and debris over time, making it look dull and dirty. Regularly cleaning and maintaining outdoor furniture can extend its lifespan and keep it looking fresh and inviting. Proper cleaning and care of outdoor furniture can enhance your outdoor living space and create a comfortable and enjoyable environment.

Get Rid of Rattan Dust

Rattan furniture adds a touch of elegance to any room but requires regular cleaning to prevent dust and dirt buildup. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust from rattan furniture and maintain its appearance. Proper cleaning and maintenance of rattan furniture can preserve its natural beauty and durability.

Deep Clean Wood Furniture With Tea

Wood furniture can accumulate dirt and grime over time, making it look dull and worn. Brew a strong tea solution to deep clean wood furniture and remove built-up residue without damaging the wood. Regularly cleaning and polishing wood furniture can enhance its appearance and maintain its natural beauty.

Put Your Dishwasher to Work for Cleaning More Than Dishes

Your dishwasher can be a versatile cleaning tool for more than just dishes. Use it to clean plastic toys, bathroom accessories, flower vases, pet dishes, and even garden tools. Properly load and secure items in the dishwasher to prevent damage and achieve a thorough clean. Leveraging your dishwasher for non-dish items can save time and effort in your cleaning routine.

Sanitize Your Wooden Cutting Board

Wooden cutting boards can harbor bacteria in knife cuts and grooves, posing a food safety risk. Sanitize wooden cutting boards using hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar to kill germs and prevent cross-contamination. Regularly sanitizing cutting boards can keep them safe and hygienic for food preparation.

Restore Your Favorite Coffee Cup

If your favorite coffee cup has stubborn stains or residue, use baking soda to gently scrub away build-up and restore its cleanliness. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your coffee cup can prevent discoloration and improve the taste of your beverages. Proper care of your coffee cup can keep it looking fresh and ready for your favorite drink.

Protect the Frame of Your Mirror

When cleaning mirrors, avoid spraying cleaner directly on the glass to prevent damage to the frame. Spray cleaner onto a lint-free cloth and wipe the mirror surface gently to avoid leaving streaks or marks. Proper cleaning techniques can prevent damage to mirror frames and ensure a clear and streak-free finish.

Protect the Floor Under an Area Rug

When cleaning area rugs on hardwood or laminate floors, always move the rug to a tarp or protected surface before using steam or wet cleaning methods. Leaving a wet rug on the floor can cause damage and discoloration to the underlying flooring. Proper cleaning and maintenance of area rugs can prevent damage and preserve the integrity of your floors.

Keep Your Vinyl Records Sounding Great

Vinyl records require regular cleaning to maintain their sound quality and prevent scratches and skips. Use specialized tools and cleaning solutions to remove dust and debris from vinyl records gently. Regularly cleaning and maintaining vinyl records can enhance their longevity and preserve their unique sound.

Don’t Forget the Baseboards

Baseboards can accumulate dust, dirt, and scuff marks over time, detracting from the overall appearance of a room. Use a disposable microfiber duster with an extendable handle to clean baseboards regularly and remove dirt and debris. Proper cleaning and maintenance of baseboards can enhance the cleanliness and aesthetics of your living space.

Conclusion

Cleaning your home doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By implementing these expert cleaning tips, you can keep your living space fresh, tidy, and inviting. Whether you’re tackling daily chores or deep cleaning sessions, these tips can help you clean more efficiently and effectively. Remember, regular maintenance and cleaning of your home can create a healthier, more pleasant living environment for you and your family. So roll up your sleeves, grab your cleaning supplies, and let’s get started on making your home sparkle and shine!

So, which of these expert cleaning tips will you try first? Share your favorite cleaning hacks in the comments below!