47 Household Tips and Tricks to Keep Your Home Looking Its Best

Who doesn’t dream of a home that is clean, organized, and always looking its best? But let’s face it, maintaining a tidy home requires regular cleaning, maintenance, and organization. To help you achieve your goal of a perfectly styled abode, we’ve gathered expert-approved tips and tricks from organizers and professional cleaners. Here are 47 valuable tips to help you work smarter, stay ahead of household chores, and keep your home looking its best.

Table of Contents

Declutter as Often as Possible

Focus on one small space at a time when decluttering.
Get rid of expired food and keep track of when you last used items.
Analyze what items are serving you daily in your home.

Kathy Cohoon of Two Maids emphasizes that a clean space is a happy space, and decluttering is a crucial step in achieving that. “Having a clean space can help with focus, as it eliminates distractions and confusing clutter,” she explains.

Skip the Rinse Before Loading the Dishwasher

Stop rinsing dirty dishes before putting them in the dishwasher.
Use dishwasher detergent to dissolve food particles and ensure cleaner dishes.
Scrape away large food particles before loading dishes.

Did you know that rinsing dirty dishes before loading them in the dishwasher can actually waste detergent? Dishwasher detergents work best when they can attach to food particles to dissolve the mess.

Try Following a Cleaning Calendar

Create weekly, monthly, and yearly lists of chores.
Schedule specific tasks like chimney cleaning in the spring and garden equipment maintenance in the fall.

Having a cleaning calendar can help you stay organized and ensure that no chore gets overlooked. It’s a great way to stay on top of household tasks and keep your home in top condition throughout the year.

Polish Away Smudges on Stainless Steel Appliances

Use distilled white vinegar to clean stainless steel appliances.
Spray the surfaces and wipe gently with a microfiber cloth.
Rinse with a damp cloth and buff to a shine.

Say goodbye to smudges on your stainless steel appliances by using this simple homemade cleaning solution. It’s an effective and affordable way to keep your appliances looking brand new.

Use Zones to Organize Your Pantry and Fridge

Categorize food items and keep them in designated zones.
Use clear containers for easy visibility.
Add labels to make it easier for household members to find things.

Organizing your pantry and fridge can save you time and make cooking and meal prep more efficient. By creating zones for different food categories, you’ll always know where everything is and when you need to restock.

Use Salt and Lemon Juice to Clean Outdoor Furniture

Mix salt and lemon juice to remove grime from outdoor furniture.
Leave salt-coated furniture in direct sunlight for extra cleaning power.
The combination of salt and sunlight can help break down stains effectively.

Prerna Jain, a professional cleaner and founder of Ministry Of Cleaning, recommends this natural cleaning hack to keep your outdoor furniture looking fresh and clean. It’s a simple and eco-friendly solution that yields impressive results.

Steam Clean Your Microwave

Boil a cup of water with lemon slices or distilled white vinegar in the microwave.
Let it steam for at least five minutes to freshen and clean the interior.
Wipe down the surfaces for a sparkling clean microwave.

Freshen up your microwave with this quick and easy steam cleaning method. It’s a great way to remove odors and stubborn food residue without harsh chemicals.

Pick up Broken Glass with Ease

Use safety precautions like wearing shoes and keeping others away.
Use kitchen tongs or gloves to pick up large glass shards.
Use bread, wet paper towels, or a lint roller to pick up tiny glass pieces.

Safety first when dealing with broken glass! Follow these tips to safely and effectively clean up broken glass to prevent injuries and ensure a thorough cleanup.

Don’t Skip Making Your Bed

A properly made bed can transform the look and feel of a room.
Use a comforter for quick and easy bed-making.
Fluff pillows and straighten sheets for a neat and inviting bed.

Making your bed may seem like a small task, but it can have a big impact on the overall appearance of your bedroom. Plus, climbing into a neatly made bed at the end of the day is so much more inviting!

Utilize Vertical Space in Your Bedroom Closet

Use vertical hanging space for better organization.
Invest in cascading hangers or hanging organizers.
Install adjustable shelves and hooks for additional storage.

Maximize the storage potential of your bedroom closet by utilizing vertical space. By organizing your clothes and accessories effectively, you can create a functional and clutter-free closet.

Clean and Organize Your Garage

Declutter and organize your garage to make better use of the space.
Install sturdy cabinets and shelving for storage.
Use wooden pallets and old bathroom towel racks for organization.

Transform your garage into an organized and functional space with these expert tips. By decluttering and adding storage solutions, you can make the most of your garage space.

Don’t Neglect Your Entryway and Coat Closet

Keep your entryway and coat closet organized for a welcoming first impression.
Hide shoes and boots to create a tidy entrance.
Use pool noodles to keep boots upright.

Make a great first impression with an organized entryway and coat closet. By keeping these spaces clutter-free, you’ll make guests feel welcome and create a more inviting atmosphere in your home.

Upcycle Items You Love

Find new uses for sentimental objects to freshen up your space.
Repurpose old items to give them a new life.
Turn old pitchers into vases or use them for decorative purposes.

Upcycling is a creative and sustainable way to breathe new life into old items. Instead of letting them collect dust, find new ways to use and enjoy sentimental objects in your home.

Add Smart Toy Storage

Use over-the-door shoe organizers for small toy storage.
Keep Legos and dolls organized and easily accessible.
Utilize shoe pockets for storing small toys and craft supplies.

Keeping kids’ rooms neat and organized can be a challenge. By utilizing smart toy storage solutions like shoe organizers, you can make it easier for kids to find and put away their toys.

Start at the Top

Start cleaning at the ceiling and work your way down for more efficient cleaning.
Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures before cleaning lower surfaces.
Work systematically to ensure each space is thoroughly cleaned.

Save time and effort by following this top-down cleaning approach. By starting at the top and working your way down, you’ll avoid re-cleaning surfaces and ensure a more thorough cleaning job.

Reduce Household Dust for Easier Cleaning

Keep doors and windows closed to reduce dust accumulation.
Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter for efficient dust removal.
Change air filters regularly to maintain clean indoor air.

Reducing household dust is key to maintaining a clean and healthy home. By implementing these simple tips, you can make cleaning easier and keep your home looking its best.

Keep Pet Hair Under Control

Use pet-friendly fabrics to minimize pet hair accumulation.
Keep a lint roller handy for quick hair removal.
Regularly vacuum and clean pet-friendly surfaces.

Pet hair can be a constant cleaning challenge, but with the right strategies, you can keep it under control. By using pet-friendly fabrics and tools like lint rollers, you can make pet hair cleanup easier and more effective.

Less Is More

Use the recommended amount of cleaning product to avoid residue build-up.
Follow the directions on cleaning product labels for best results.
Avoid using excess cleaning solution to prevent dirt magnetization.

Using too much cleaning product can actually lead to more dirt buildup. By following the recommended amounts on product labels, you can ensure effective cleaning without leaving behind residue.

Clean Your Cleaning Tools

Clean your cleaning tools after each use for optimal performance.
Dirty mops and dusters can leave residue and scratches behind.
Regularly wash and maintain cleaning supplies to keep them in top condition.

To achieve the best cleaning results, it’s essential to keep your tools clean. By maintaining your cleaning supplies, you’ll ensure that they work efficiently and effectively every time.

Freshen Your Home’s Air With Easy DIYs

Use candles, scent sprays, or baking to freshen your home’s air.
Simmer citrus slices and spices for a natural air freshener.
Use these simple DIYs to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home.

Freshening your home’s air can create a welcoming environment for guests and help you relax. By incorporating these easy DIY air freshening ideas, you can enjoy a fresh and inviting home.

Unclog Sputtering Showerheads

Soak showerheads in distilled white vinegar to remove mineral deposits.
Use a plastic bag with vinegar for an easy overnight cleaning solution.
Clean showerheads regularly to ensure consistent water flow.

Sputtering showerheads are a common issue caused by mineral deposits. By using vinegar to clean and unclog showerheads, you can enjoy a steady water flow and a more enjoyable shower experience.

Attack Soap Scum Often

Rinse bathtubs and showers with a vinegar and water solution.
Use a squeegee to wipe down shower walls to prevent soap scum buildup.
Keep shower curtains dry and free from mildew with proper ventilation.

Prevent soap scum buildup by regularly rinsing your bathtub and shower walls with a vinegar solution. By incorporating these simple cleaning habits, you can keep your bathroom clean and fresh.

Fix Slow-Running Drains With Vinegar and Baking Soda

Use vinegar and baking soda to unclog slow-running drains.
Allow the mixture to sit for twenty minutes before rinsing with warm water.
This natural hack works well for all household drains.

Clear slow-running drains with a simple mixture of vinegar and baking soda. By using natural ingredients, you can unclog drains effectively without harsh chemicals.

Keep Cleaning Supplies Handy

Keep a stocked cleaning caddie in high-traffic areas for quick clean-ups.
Include essential cleaning supplies like disinfectant wipes and glass cleaner.
Spot clean regularly to keep your home guest-ready at all times.

Having cleaning supplies on hand in key areas of your home can make quick clean-ups a breeze. By keeping your bathroom stocked with essential cleaning products, you can maintain a clean and tidy space with minimal effort.

Remove Hard Water Stains from Toilets With Household Essentials

Use vinegar, baking soda, or borax to remove hard water stains.
Scrub toilet bowls regularly to prevent mineral buildup.
Keep your toilet looking clean and fresh with regular maintenance.

Hard water stains can be a common issue in toilets, but they can be easily removed with household cleaning products. By incorporating these cleaning tips, you can keep your toilet free from unsightly stains.

Quick-Clean the Bathroom Often

Follow a quick cleaning routine for a fresh and tidy bathroom.
Use essential cleaning products like toilet cleaner and disinfectant wipes.
Wipe down surfaces and floors for a quick refresh.

If you need to quickly freshen up your bathroom before guests arrive, follow these simple cleaning steps. By following a quick cleaning routine, you can ensure that your bathroom always looks clean and inviting.

Don’t Forget to Disinfect Door Handles

Clean appliance handles, door knobs, and switches regularly to remove germs.
Use disinfectant wipes or cleaner to kill germs effectively.
Clean high-touch surfaces to prevent the spread of bacteria.

High-touch surfaces like door handles can harbor germs and bacteria if not cleaned regularly. By disinfecting these areas, you can create a healthier environment in your home and prevent the spread of illness.

Clean Rugs and Carpet When You’re Home Alone

Vacuum and spot clean rugs and carpets when foot traffic is minimal.
Use a vacuum with upholstery attachments for effective cleaning.
Keep rugs clean and fresh for a healthier home environment.

To maintain clean and fresh rugs and carpets, choose a time when foot traffic is low to tackle cleaning tasks. By regularly vacuuming and spot-treating stains, you can keep your floors looking their best.

Keep Rugs From Slipping With Floor Gripping Pads

Use non-slip pads or gripper tape to keep rugs in place.
Prevent slips and falls by securing area rugs properly.
Ensure rugs stay in place for a safer and more comfortable home.

Prevent rugs from slipping and sliding with floor gripping pads. By using these simple solutions, you can create a safer and more stable surface in your home.

Keep Hardwood Floors Shiny

Sweep, vacuum, or dust mop hardwood floors before cleaning.
Use a damp mop with the right cleaning products for shiny floors.
Buff clean floors with a dry microfiber mop for a streak-free finish.

Maintain the shine of your hardwood floors with proper cleaning techniques. By following these tips, you can keep your floors looking their best and enhance the overall appearance of your home.

Clean and Freshen Window Coverings Yearly

Clean curtains, drapes, and shades annually to remove dust and odors.
Follow care instructions for proper cleaning of window treatments.
Use a clothes steamer to remove wrinkles and freshen up window coverings.

Window coverings can attract dust and odors over time, so it’s essential to clean them regularly. By incorporating these cleaning habits, you can keep your window treatments looking fresh and new.

Take Care of Furniture Upholstery Often

Vacuum upholstery weekly to remove dirt and debris.
Use appropriate tools and cleaning products for different types of upholstery.
Maintain upholstery to extend its lifespan and keep it looking new.

Regularly cleaning and maintaining furniture upholstery can prolong its life and keep it looking fresh. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your furniture remains clean and comfortable.

Clean Light Bulbs and Fixtures

Dust light fixtures and clean light bulbs regularly.
Remove dust and dirt to improve light output and appearance.
Keep fixtures clean for better lighting and a more attractive home.

Dirty light fixtures can detract from the appearance of your home and reduce the amount of light in a room. By cleaning light bulbs and fixtures, you can enhance the lighting and overall ambiance of your space.

Remove Dirt and Smudges from Walls

Dust and clean walls regularly to maintain a clean and fresh appearance.
Pay special attention to high-traffic areas near doors and light switches.
Clean walls promptly to prevent dirt and smudge buildup.

Cleaning walls regularly is essential for maintaining a clean and visually appealing home. By incorporating these cleaning habits, you can ensure that your walls always look their best.

Clean and Shine Leather Furniture

Vacuum leather furniture to remove dust and debris.
Use saddle soap to clean and condition leather upholstery.
Maintain leather furniture for a luxurious and comfortable seating option.

Leather furniture adds a touch of elegance to any room, but it requires regular cleaning and maintenance. By following these simple tips, you can keep your leather furniture looking beautiful and inviting.

Rearrange Your Furniture

Identify focal points and arrange furniture around them.
Use statement pieces to anchor your furniture layout.
Rearrange furniture for a fresh and updated look.

Simply rearranging your furniture can give your home a new and updated look. By following these tips from interior designers, you can create a more functional and visually appealing space.

Add Slipcovers to Furniture

Use slipcovers to protect and update furniture.
Clean slipcovers regularly to maintain their appearance.
Wash all components together to prevent color discrepancies.

Slipcovers are a versatile and practical solution for protecting and updating furniture. By incorporating slipcovers into your home decor, you can easily change the look of your furniture and keep it clean and fresh.

Simply Paint a Room for a New Look

Use paint to refresh and update the look of a room.
Add an accent wall for visual interest and focal point.
Choose paint colors that complement your decor and personal style.

Painting a room can completely transform its look and feel. Whether you opt for a fresh coat of the same color or add an accent wall, painting is a simple and affordable way to update your home decor.

Freshen Your Trash Can

Clean and disinfect your trash can regularly.
Use disinfectant wipes and all-purpose cleaner for a quick clean-up.
Keep your trash can clean to prevent odors and bacteria growth.

Don’t neglect your trash can when cleaning your home! By incorporating this simple cleaning task, you can prevent odors and bacterial growth in your kitchen or bathroom.

Clean Windows Often

Clean windows regularly for improved light and visibility.
Use homemade window cleaner for a streak-free shine.
Keep windows clean for a brighter and more inviting home.

Cleaning windows is a simple yet effective way to enhance the appearance of your home. By following these tips, you can enjoy clean and sparkling windows that let in more light and improve the overall aesthetic of your space.

Add Natural Elements to Your Home

Bring the outdoors inside with houseplants or fresh flowers.
Use natural elements to add color and freshness to your decor.
Choose plants that purify the air and provide visual interest.

Adding natural elements to your home is a great way to bring life and freshness into your space. By incorporating houseplants or fresh flowers, you can create a more inviting and visually appealing environment.

Make Dishwashing Easier

Use plastic dishpans to streamline dishwashing.
Keep dirty dishes in a separate container for easy washing.
Reduce water use and protect dishes by using dishpans.

Make dishwashing more efficient and eco-friendly by using plastic dishpans. By following these tips, you can streamline the dishwashing process and keep your dishes clean and protected.

Add Under the Cabinet Lighting to a Kitchen

Install under-cabinet lights for improved task lighting.
Use puck lights for affordability and easy installation.
Enhance your kitchen’s ambiance with under-cabinet lighting.

Under-cabinet lighting can transform the look and functionality of your kitchen. By following these tips from interior designers, you can create a well-lit and welcoming space for meal prep and cooking.

Do an Inspection

Hire an inspector to check hidden areas of your home.
Identify and address hidden problems to protect your home’s value.
Make a list of repairs and hire professionals for necessary tasks.

Protect your home and investment by conducting a thorough inspection of your property. By addressing hidden issues and making necessary repairs, you can maintain your home’s value and safety.

Create a Welcoming Front Entrance

Clean and decorate your front entrance for a welcoming vibe.
Add a clean mat, plants, and decor to enhance the entryway.
Make a great first impression with a tidy and inviting front entrance.

Your front entrance sets the tone for your home, so make sure it’s clean, organized, and welcoming. By following these tips, you can create a warm and inviting entryway for guests and visitors.

Trim Foundation Plants

Maintain foundation plants to improve curb appeal.
Trim overgrown plants and low-hanging branches blocking light.
Keep hedges and lawns manicured for a neat and appealing landscape.

Keeping your foundation plants trimmed and tidy can enhance the appearance of your home’s exterior. By following these landscaping tips, you can create a more appealing and well-maintained outdoor space.

Clean Your Gutters Without a Ladder

Use a wet/dry vacuum with an attachment to clean gutters.
Vacuum leaves and debris to prevent clogs and water damage.
Keep gutters clean for optimal drainage and roof protection.

Cleaning gutters is essential for maintaining your home’s exterior and preventing water damage. By following these tips, you can clean your gutters safely and effectively without climbing a ladder.

Incorporating these expert-approved tips and tricks into your household routine can help you maintain a clean, organized, and aest