A professional cleaning service works wonders in giving your home that fresh, spotless feel. But, between scheduled cleanings, it can be tough to maintain that same level of cleanliness—especially when life gets busy. Fortunately, with just a few simple habits and maintenance tips, you can keep your home looking tidy and inviting. Here are 10 practical tips to help you maintain a clean home in between professional cleanings:
1. Tackle Clutter Daily
Clutter tends to accumulate quickly, but staying on top of it daily can make a huge difference. Set aside 10-15 minutes each evening to tidy up common areas like the living room, kitchen counters, and your entryway. A quick once-over can keep things from piling up, so you’re not overwhelmed when it’s time for a deeper cleaning.
Tip: Make it a family affair. Everyone can pitch in to put things away and keep messes under control.
2. Clean as You Go in the Kitchen
One of the messiest areas in any home is the kitchen. Cooking can leave behind crumbs, grease, and spills that, if left unchecked, can become harder to clean. Try to wipe down counters and clean dishes as you cook, rather than letting everything pile up. A few minutes of effort will save you time later and keep the kitchen looking pristine.
Tip: Keep a cleaning cloth and spray bottle handy for quick clean-ups during meal prep.
3. Wipe Down High-Touch Surfaces
Surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls accumulate dirt and germs quickly. Wipe them down every couple of days with a disinfecting wipe or cloth to keep things sanitized and fresh. This small effort can significantly improve the overall cleanliness of your home.
Tip: Keep a disinfecting wipe container near the door or remote control area for quick access.
4. Vacuum High-Traffic Areas
High-traffic areas, such as hallways, living rooms, and entryways, tend to accumulate dirt, dust, and debris more quickly. Vacuum these areas every 2-3 days to prevent dirt from building up and spreading to other parts of the house. If you have pets, frequent vacuuming will help keep pet hair under control as well.
Tip: Invest in a lightweight cordless vacuum for quick and easy touch-ups between professional cleanings.
5. Maintain a “No Shoes in the House” Rule
Shoes track dirt, dust, and bacteria into your home, making it harder to keep things clean. Implementing a “no shoes” policy helps reduce the amount of debris and dirt that’s brought inside. Provide a designated area near the door for shoes to encourage everyone to follow this rule.
Tip: Keep a basket or shoe rack near your entryway to make it easier for family members and guests to follow this rule.
6. Wipe Down Bathrooms After Each Use
Bathrooms can become grimy quickly due to water spots, toothpaste splatters, and soap scum. Wipe down bathroom surfaces, including the sink, faucet, and countertops, after each use. A quick once-over can help keep your bathroom feeling fresh and prevent build-up that requires a deeper clean later.
Tip: Keep a small, disposable cloth or wipe in the bathroom for easy clean-ups after each use.
7. Stay on Top of Pet Hair
If you have pets, you know how easily pet hair can accumulate on furniture, floors, and even clothing. Keep a lint roller handy to quickly remove hair from surfaces before it spreads. Regularly vacuum areas where your pets spend time to keep the hair under control.
Tip: Use a pet-specific vacuum attachment or a robot vacuum designed for pet hair to keep things tidy.
8. Spot Clean Walls and Baseboards
Dirt and grime can build up on walls and baseboards, especially in areas like hallways and stairwells. Take a microfiber cloth and quickly wipe down these surfaces when you notice smudges or dust. This will prevent you from needing a deep clean every time a professional cleaning service comes.
Tip: Use a microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish, and spot clean only the areas that need attention.
9. Change Linens and Towels Regularly
Fresh bed linens and towels not only make your home look cleaner but also contribute to a healthier environment. Regularly change bed sheets and bath towels to avoid the buildup of dirt, bacteria, and oils. Aim to change them once a week or more if needed.
Tip: Have an extra set of towels or linens ready to go so you’re never without a clean set.
10. Use Air Fresheners or Essential Oils
Even if your home is spotless, a fresh scent can elevate the overall feeling of cleanliness. Use air fresheners, essential oils, or scented candles to maintain a pleasant fragrance. This will help create the illusion of cleanliness, even if you haven’t had time for a deep clean.
Tip: Opt for natural essential oils like lavender, lemon, or eucalyptus for a fresh, calming scent.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your home clean between professional cleanings doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these simple tips and incorporating a few small habits into your daily routine, you can maintain a fresh, inviting environment. And when it’s time for your next professional Jim’s Cleaning, you’ll be that much closer to the pristine home you desire!
Remember, the goal is not perfection but consistency. With a little bit of effort each day, you’ll ensure that your home always feels clean and comfortable—no matter when the cleaning crew arrives.
