Feeling overwhelmed by a messy house? You’re not alone. The “clean one room a day” technique has gained popularity for a reason – it’s a manageable approach to tackling even the most cluttered spaces. But how can you make this routine even more effective? Here are some tips to perfect the “clean one room a day” technique:
Choose Your Battles Wisely
Not all rooms are created equal. On a busy day, prioritize quick wins like the bathroom or a small bedroom. These spaces often require less time and effort to tidy, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment. Save deeper cleaning projects, like the kitchen or living room, for days when you have more time.
Set a Timer (and Stick to It!)
The beauty of this technique is its focus on short, concentrated bursts of cleaning. Setting a timer, say for 30 minutes, keeps you on track and prevents the cleaning from spiraling into an all-day affair.
Declutter Before You Deep Clean
Decluttering takes less time than deep cleaning and sets the stage for a more efficient cleaning session. Start by removing unnecessary items from surfaces, putting clothes away and discarding trash. A decluttered space allows you to focus on tasks like dusting, wiping surfaces clean and mopping floors.
Follow a Cleaning Checklist
Consistency is key to maintaining a clean home. Having a room-specific checklist helps ensure you don’t miss any crucial areas. Some common tasks might include dusting surfaces, vacuuming carpets, cleaning mirrors, wiping down appliances (bathroom), organizing shelves and dusting electronics (living room).
Clean From Top to Bottom, Left to Right
A Molly Maid golden rule to cleaning, this technique prevents dust and debris from settling on surfaces you’ve already cleaned. Start by dusting high surfaces like shelves and ceiling fans, going from left to right and then down to furniture and floors. This will minimize the need for re-cleaning as you go.
Utilize Multipurpose Products
Having a multi-surface cleaner can save you time and money. Choose a product that’s effective on most surfaces, eliminating the need for multiple cleaning solutions. Opting for natural cleaning products like vinegar and baking soda is also an environmentally friendly option.
Embrace the Power of Music
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore. Turning up your favourite playlist can make the process more enjoyable and help you stay motivated.
Celebrate Your Victories!
Acknowledge your progress and reward yourself for staying on track. Even a clean bathroom or a tidy bedroom is a step towards a clutter-free home.
