Cleaning your home can be a tedious and time-consuming task, but it’s a necessary part of maintaining a healthy living environment. And, if you’re considering selling your house, a clean and well-maintained home can increase its value and reduce the costs of selling a home. Here are eight tips for more efficient home cleaning:

1. Declutter before you start cleaning

Before you start cleaning, take a few minutes to declutter. Put away any items that don’t belong in the room you’re cleaning, and remove any trash or items you no longer need. This will make cleaning easier and more efficient, as you won’t have to work around clutter.

2. Use the right cleaning tools and products

Using the right cleaning tools and products can greatly improve your cleaning efficiency. For example, use microfiber cloths instead of paper towels for dusting and cleaning, as they’re reusable and more effective. Also, consider investing in a quality vacuum cleaner or a Roomba to save time and energy.

3. Start at the top and work your way down

Always start at the top when cleaning a room and work your way down. Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures first, then move on to shelves and furniture and finish with the floors. This will prevent dirt and dust from falling onto areas you’ve already cleaned.

4. Set a timer

Cleaning can be overwhelming, especially if you have a large home. To make it more manageable, set a timer for 15 or 30 minutes and focus on cleaning during that time. Once the timer goes off, take a break or move on to another task. This will help you avoid burnout and make cleaning feel less daunting.

5. Use natural cleaning solutions

Not only are natural cleaning solutions better for the environment, but they can also be more efficient and cost-effective than store-bought products. For example, a mixture of vinegar and water can be used to clean floors, windows, and countertops. Baking soda is also a great natural cleaner for sinks, tubs, and toilets.

6. Clean as you go

Cleaning as you go is a great way to keep your home tidy and avoid spending hours cleaning at once. For example, clean up spills immediately instead of waiting for them to dry and become harder to clean. Also, wash dishes after each meal instead of letting them pile up in the sink.

7. Get everyone involved

If you live with others, cleaning shouldn’t be a one-person job. Get everyone involved in keeping your home clean and tidy. Assign tasks to each family member or roommate and make it a fun activity. This will not only make cleaning more efficient, but it will also teach your kids valuable life skills if you’re a parent.

8. Make cleaning more enjoyable

Cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore. Put on some music, listen to a podcast, or make a cleaning competition with your family or roommates. You can also reward yourself with a treat or some time to pursue other hobbies after cleaning.

9. Use the two-bucket method for mopping

Mopping can be time-consuming, especially if you must stop and refill your cleaning solution frequently. To make it more efficient, use the two-bucket method. Fill one bucket with clean water and the other with your cleaning solution. Dip your mop into the cleaning solution bucket and wring it out, then dip it into the clean water bucket and wring it out again before mopping. This will help prevent dirt and grime from spreading around your floors, and you won’t have to stop and refill your cleaning solution as often.

10. Use a squeegee to clean shower walls

Cleaning shower walls can be a challenge, as soap scum and hard water stains can be tough to remove. Instead of using a spray cleaner and a cloth, use a squeegee to clean your shower walls. Start at the top and work your way down, using a back-and-forth motion. This will remove excess water and soap scum, making it easier to keep your shower clean and reducing the time you spend cleaning.

11. Invest in storage solutions

One of the biggest challenges when it comes to cleaning is dealing with clutter. Investing in storage solutions can help you keep your home organized and make cleaning more efficient. Consider adding shelves, storage bins, or a storage ottoman to your living spaces. If you have a basement with space for storage, this is a great place to start. This will help you keep items off the floor and out of the way in your main living spaces.

12. Clean your cleaning tools

Cleaning tools like sponges, cloths, and brushes can harbor bacteria and dirt if not cleaned regularly. To ensure your cleaning tools are working effectively and not spreading dirt around your home, clean them after each use. Rinse them with hot water and soap, then let them air dry. You can also sanitize your sponges by microwaving them for 2 minutes or running them through the dishwasher. By keeping your cleaning tools clean, you’ll be able to clean your home more efficiently and effectively.

Cleaning your home doesn’t have to be a miserable experience. Following these eight tips can make cleaning more efficient, cost-effective, and enjoyable. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or moving to a new place, these tips will help you keep your home clean and tidy.