No matter how often we clean, dust seems to accumulate everywhere. Whether it’s a persistent layer on your shelves or a never-ending battle with allergens, dust can feel like an unwelcome guest that refuses to leave.

There are several factors contributing to ongoing dust, from the air quality in your home to the materials you use for decor, many of which can be changed to help make your home a little less dusty over time.

Here, expert cleaners reveal the six reasons dust builds up faster than you can clean it away, and share effective tricks to remove dust properly in the long term, for a cleaner and healthier home.

6 reasons your home gets dusty quickly

A build-up of dust is one of the many ways your house is making you ill. It might seem harmless, but it can significantly reduce air quality and encourage dust mites, worsening allergies.

A quick clean-up and some smart anti-dust strategies will go a long way to making your home more comfortable.

1. Your HVAC filter is dirty or too small

Your HVAC system plays a big role in the air quality of your home. Forgetting to clean your HVAC system is a common cause of dust build-up around your home.

Ryan Meagher of BVM Contracting explains, ‘If your HVAC filter is dirty or not sized properly or there is no filtration, you are going to accumulate duct a lot faster than a system that has a filter which catches dust and other airborne matter.

'To prevent homes from getting dusty as quickly I would start with a review of the filtration system in the home, and upgrade the filter if needed. You can also look into getting standalone air purifiers for areas that have a lot of dust accumulation or to help supplement your HVAC filtration system.'

It is also a good idea to clean vents around your home and improving air quality.

2. Dusting incorrectly

There are several common dusting mistakes that make your home dirtier, warns Aminah, head of marketing and innovation at Inspire Clean.

She explains, ‘Wiping with a dry cloth often just moves dust around, making it settle back again. Try using a microfiber cloth instead as it grabs onto dust better, and always clean from the top down to avoid messing up areas you've already cleaned.’

Remember to dust before vacuuming, too, to collect fallen dust from your flooring.

It can also help to damp dust. I swear by the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster for this, as it picks up dust in one swipe, rather than move it around or disturb it into the air. This prevents any resettling for a cleaner home.

3. Unsealed doors and windows

Draft-proofing a home is important for more than stopping cold air leaks and making heating more efficient. Blocking gaps with door brushes (available at Walmart), and silicone sealant such as Gorilla Glue Clear caulk, also at Walmart, can help prevent outdoor dust from blowing in and making your home dirtier.

This is especially important in summer when pollen adds to dust to create an allergen nightmare. Pair draft-proofing with cleaning tips for allergen sufferers for a home that doesn't make you sneeze from morning to dusk.

4. Shedding fabrics

We have all fallen victim to picking up fluffy throws, decor and clothing to make a house cozy, but these items almost always shed, releasing particles and threads that contribute to dust piles. Synthetic fibers are the worst offenders, releasing plastic particles and microfibers that build up on the surfaces of your home.

Punteha van Terheyden, head of Solved at H&G suggests skipping these items at the store. If this isn’t possible, however, she says, ‘Consider washing them when you first bring them home. Running them on a normal laundry cycle, checking first the laundry symbols to avoid damage. This will help to remove most of the loose particles straight off the bat, reducing dust around your home.’

5. Ignoring vertical spots

We might think it is only flat surfaces that collect dust, but everything vertical from our walls to furniture and window treatments can collect dust. These are overlooked spots you're forgetting to dust, reminds Aminah.

She says, ‘Carpets, curtains, and furniture collect dust more than you might think. Vacuum these areas regularly with a good vacuum cleaner, and wash things like throws or cushion covers every few months to keep them fresh.’ ]

Vacuuming your curtains is one of the more unusual ways to use your vacuum but just keep it on a low suction level and be careful not to pull too hard and damage or loosen any wall fixtures holding the rails in place.

6. You have pets

It is inescapable – if you have pets, you will have a dustier home. Pet dander and hair are one of the main contributors to dust buildup, and it is tricky to tackle.

Ottilie Blackhall, Solved news writer and owner of four beloved dogs, says, ‘Regularly grooming your animals can make a difference in the dust levels around your home, helping to remove loose hair before it can settle on your surfaces. Washing your pets with pet-safe shampoos can also help to remove dead skin for a cleaner, happier pet and a cleaner home.

‘My partner also finds that using an air purifier can help with pet dander, helping to collect hair and dust from the air before it settles.’

Choosing the right air purifier for your home is vital, however. Pick a device that is suited to the size of your space (working out the square footage by multiplying the length of the room by the width of the room), and optimized for homes with pets.

Remember to also check and clean or replace the filter regularly to keep your home cleaner for longer.

FAQs

Does opening windows help with dust?

While keeping your windows closed might seem like a surefire way to trap dust inside your home, leaving them open actually introduces more dust to your space. While you don’t need to keep your windows closed all the time (doing so is a bad habit increasing the risk of mold in your home), only opening them when you need to cool a space or improve your ventilation is a great approach if you want to cut back on cleaning.

Preventing dust is difficult, but it is possible to cut back on dusting with these quick tips and cleaning shortcuts. Nevertheless, remember to dust occasionally, even with these dust-controlling measures in place, to help keep your air clean, reducing allergies and the risk of respiratory illnesses.

Window vacs are really starting to pick up traction as one of the best ways to get glass gleaming, be it for their traditional use, or for cleaning shower glass, mirrors, and car windscreens.

But the vacuum alone won’t do much to shift dirt. For truly spotless results, you need to pair it with a good window cleaning solution that breaks down dust and grime and doesn't leave streaks. But what happens when you run out of the commercial cleaner it comes with?

Rather than splash out on more, you can make your own sustainable cleaner for cleaning windows without streaks. I tried three homemade cleaning solutions for use with my window vacuum and loved them.

The best homemade window cleaning solutions for a window vacuum

Window vacs work by sucking up moisture to minimize streaking and watermarks, leaving behind a truly gleaming window pane. The best homemade window cleaner, therefore, needs to be able to break down grease and grime without clinging to the window and being too sudsy for the vacuum to remove.

I tested a few out (made some window cleaning mistakes so you don’t have to) and settled on three recipes that work perfectly.

Before cleaning windows, you will need a few tools:

• A window vacuum, available at Amazon
• Microfiber cloths from Walmart, or sponges, also from Walmart
• A clean spray bottle, available at Walmart, for easy application

1. Castile soap and water

One of my all-time favorite solutions for freshening up my windows is cleaning with Castille soap mixed with warm water. I started using this method when I picked up a copy of Lisa Bronner’s Soap & Soul from Amazon – it is essentially a Castile soap bible, packed full of nostalgic cleaning tips for just about everything.

This solution is perfect because you can use it both inside and out for clean windows. I followed Lisa’s recipe for this, mixing one tablespoon of Castile soap with one quart of warm water.

For use outside, I soaked a sponge in a bowl of the mixture before slathering the window, buffing to dissolve grime and dust. I then rinsed away the suds with plain water (usually using a watering can from Walmart for ease) before using the window vac to suck up the water for a streak-free shine.

For window cleaning inside, I mixed up the solution in a spray bottle, shaking it up before lightly misting the window and letting it sit for a minute or two before using the vacuum to remove it.

Another big pro to this solution is you can use it to clean window tracks, too, removing built-up grime for a smoother-moving window pane.

2. Vinegar

Cleaning with vinegar is another homemade staple that is great for cleaning windows (or even cleaning glass shower doors) that are obscured by hard or dusty watermarks. The acidity of distilled white vinegar helps to remove limescale from shower glass and windows, eating away at the minerals to make them easier to remove. For that reason, it's far more effective than the Victorian window cleaning hack we recently tried here at Homes & Gardens.

Punteha van Terheyden, head of Solved, explains, ‘Mixing equal parts distilled white vinegar, from Walmart, with warm water and a drop or two of high-quality dish soap (like Dawn from Walmart) creates an easy to use solution for both sides of your window. The dish soap acts as a surfactant, allowing the solution to spread more evenly on the glass and cling to it, making it easier to buff with a microfiber cloth or sponge before removing it with the window vac.

When working outside, you might also want to allow the mixture to sit on the window for a minute or two to break down any limescale deposits before buffing.

She adds, ‘Remember to work from side to side slowly for the vacuum to work properly.'

3. Baking soda and water

It might sound strange to use a powder, but cleaning with baking soda is another great way to remove tough deposits on the outside of windows. I usually use it after a dusty summer rain, but it proved particularly useful after some recent construction left my window coated in grime.

To use baking soda to clean windows, you need to form a paste. You are essentially making a homemade version of The Pink Stuff paste, available at Walmart to mimic our Pink-and-Blink window cleaning hack.

How much you make will depend on the size of your window, but the general idea is to mix a small amount of warm water at a time with baking soda until it forms a spreadable paste that you can scoop up with a cloth or sponge (like a Scrub Daddy, from Walmart).

Then, buff it onto the glass. It sometimes helps to dampen the glass with plain water first to let the paste glide a little more easily. You want the whole pane to be concealed behind the mixture before rinsing it away with water again.

This doesn't have to be perfect, just enough to remove most of the small soda granules before using the window vac to suck up the rest, leaving a gleaming window behind.

Baking soda works perfectly because it acts as a a gentle abrasive, without scratching the window, making it easy to remove difficult, stuck-on grime.

FAQs

Why are my windows streaky after using a window vacuum?

If your windows still look streaky after using a window vacuum, it may be that you have pressed too hard or moved too quickly when using it to remove water. It is a delicate art that needs some practice to get right.

If you are well-practiced, however, and the streaks are a recent occurrence, the rubber edge on the window vac may have worn down with heavy use, creating an uneven surface that leaves streaks. It may be time for a replacement. Amazon window vacuums are plentiful and available for quick delivery.

What should you not use to clean windows?

When cleaning windows, it is best to avoid any harsh chemicals such as bleach, or strong abrasives like hard bristled brushes, as these can damage the glass, leaving permanent scratches and cloudy marks.

With your windows sparkling, read more about what I wish I knew before buying a window vacuum to discover more smart ways to use these surprisingly versatile devices all around your home.

Oxygen bleach is a powerful, eco-friendly cleaning agent that can tackle tough stains, odors, and grime around the house. Unlike chlorine bleach, it’s gentler on fabrics and surfaces while still being highly effective.

In this expert-led guide, we reveal 10 clever ways to use oxygen bleach our cleaning pros swear by.

From brightening bathroom grout to replenishing sweaty pillows, these amazing oxygen bleach cleaning tips will bring a new 'zing' to your home.

The best ways to clean with oxygen bleach at home

1. Brighten bathroom grout

Over time, grout lines between bathroom tiles can become discolored and grimy. Oxygen bleach can help banish mold and lift stubborn stains to restore brightness.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, 'Oxygen bleach penetrates and lifts stains while killing mold and mildew, leaving grout looking fresh without the harshness of chlorine bleach.

'To do this, mix a paste of oxygen bleach and warm water, following the product instructions for ratios. Apply the paste to the grout using an old toothbrush or grout brush, then let it sit for 15–20 minutes to allow the oxygen bubbles to break down stains. To finish, scrub the grout gently, then rinse with warm water.'

Steve Evans, owner of Memphis Maids cleaning service, adds, 'For bathroom wall tiles, I recommend adding a little more powder to ensure the paste is thick enough to stick. Then consider adding a brush attachment to your drill for extra power.'

2. Freshen outdoor furniture

Patio furniture is exposed to dirt, mold, and mildew, and with months spent in the elements, can be left looking worn out. Oxygen bleach is safe for most outdoor furniture materials.

Toner says, 'Oxygen bleach safely removes dirt, mildew, and stains from plastic, wood, or metal outdoor furniture without discoloration.

'Simply dissolve 1/2 cup of oxygen bleach in a gallon of warm water, use a sponge or soft-bristle brush to scrub the furniture with the solution, then allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with a garden hose.'

Toner recommends Seventh Generation Oxygen Bleach Powder, available from Amazon, adding, 'This biodegradable and eco-friendly option is ideal for outdoor cleaning tasks.'

Look out for these common outdoor furniture mistakes when arranging your backyard.

3. Revive stained laundry

Tough stains on clothes and linens, from coffee spills to sweat marks, can often resist regular detergents. Oxygen bleach offers a fabric-safe alternative for lifting deep stains.

Toner says, 'Oxygen bleach is excellent for removing tough stains like wine, coffee, or sweat while being gentle on colors.

'Fill a basin or sink with warm water and add oxygen bleach according to the package instructions. Submerge the stained garments and let them soak for 30 minutes, or a few hours for tougher stains. Wash as usual in the washing machine to finish.'

Alex Varela, a cleaning expert at Oakville Maids, adds, 'Ensure your water isn't too hot, as this will set stains rather than lift them.'

For more top tips to keep your whites sparkling, check out these laundry hacks experts swear by.

4. Deodorize trash cans

Trash cans can harbor unpleasant odors and bacteria, even after they’ve been emptied. Oxygen bleach can neutralize these lingering smells effectively.

Evans says, 'To deodorize and remove stains from trash cans (as long as they’re not metal), mix 1/2 cup of oxygen bleach in 1 gallon of water. Scrub with a soft sponge, rinse, and let dry. Oxiclean is a reliable brand choice, but for a cheap alternative, I find Up&Up Oxi-Based Powder Stain Remover from Target works great.'

Check out what happened when our writer tried the paper towel hack for better-smelling trash cans.

5. Clean patio stains

Concrete patios and pavers are prone to algae, mold, and stubborn stains. Oxygen bleach is a great tool for deep cleaning outdoor surfaces.

Toner says, 'Oxygen bleach lifts oil, dirt, and algae stains without damaging the concrete or stone surfaces of your patio or driveway.

'Simply mix oxygen bleach with hot water in a bucket, pour the solution over the stained area and scrub with a stiff brush. Allow the solution to sit for 10–15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with a pressure washer or hose.'

Toner recommends 365 by Whole Foods Market Oxygen Whitening Powder from Amazon, adding, 'It's cheap, eco-friendly and highly effective for outdoor cleaning projects.'

For more, check out our detailed guide on how to clean a patio.

6. Remove carpet stains

Carpets can hold onto spills, pet accidents, and general grime. Oxygen bleach provides a safe yet effective solution for spot-treating carpet stains.

Varela says, 'Oxygen bleach works well for carpets and rugs. Personally, I recommend OxiClean Odor Blasters Versatile Odor and Stain Remover from Amazon, because it removes both stains and odors – a common problem with carpet floors or rugs.

'This one is powder, so I recommend creating a paste with warm water, letting it sit for 15 minutes, before blotting the surface to absorb stains. You'll want a thick microfiber cloth of 300 GSM or more, like these lint-free Generic Microfiber Cleaning Cloths from Amazon.'

Check out our guide for how to clean a carpet without a machine.

7. Sanitize sink drains

Kitchen sink drains are often overlooked in routine cleaning, yet they can harbor bacteria, food residue, and unpleasant odors.

To clean your kitchen drain with oxygen bleach, start by mixing two tablespoons of powdered oxygen bleach with warm water. Pour the solution slowly down the drain and let it sit for about 15 minutes. The oxygen bleach will break down grease, eliminate bacteria, and neutralize lingering smells. Finally, flush the drain with boiling water to clear away any remaining debris.

For more top tips, check out our guide on how to fix a clogged kitchen sink.

8. Clean cutting boards

Cutting boards can trap bacteria and odors from food preparation. Oxygen bleach is a food-safe option for deep cleaning wooden and plastic boards.

Ben Soreff, professional organizer at House to Home Organizing, says, 'Since plastic cutting boards can lead to micro plastic in your food with every cut, I much prefer opting for wood. The problem? Since they can't go in the dishwasher, people often don't know how to clean them. Simply use oxygen bleach powder, mix with hot water, and use a sturdy brush to clean.'

Soreff recommends this OXO Heavy Duty Scrub Brush from Target, which has stiff nylon bristles and a comfortable non-slip handle.

9. Freshen musty towels

Towels can develop a musty smell over time, even after washing. Oxygen bleach can refresh fibers and remove trapped odors.

Will Cotter, owner of HappyCleans, says, 'For those towels that have seen better days and now smell a bit, well, not so fresh, here’s a great way to bring them back to life! Aside from tackling odors head-on and reviving dull colors, oxygen bleach also softens the fibers, making your towels feel all fluffy and cozy again.

'Before tossing in the laundry as usual, soak your towels for 30 minutes in a bucket of 1 gallon warm water plus a scoop of oxygen bleach. Follow with a regular machine wash, then dry under the sun – it’s a natural disinfectant, plus the fresh air will give a nice crisp, clean scent that no fabric softener can beat.'

For more tips, take a look at our piece on how often to wash towels.

10. Replenish sweaty pillows

Pillows can absorb sweat and body oils, leading to discoloration and unpleasant odors. Oxygen bleach can help rejuvenate them.

Cotter says, 'Pillows are one of those things we just don’t really think about until they start looking a little sad and yellowed. To keep them looking brand new, soak them in a bathtub with warm water and about half cup of oxygen bleach for 30 minutes. Wash them as you normally would in the washer but add a rinse cycle to make sure all that bleach and detergent come out.

'In the dryer, for that extra fluff, try using dryer balls like these Cleancult Dryer Balls from Walmart. They’ll help get your pillows nice and puffy while also reducing drying time.'

FAQs

Is oxygen bleach as effective as chlorine bleach?

Oxygen bleach is highly effective for removing stains, odors, and grime, but it works more gently than chlorine bleach. While it’s not as powerful for sanitizing, it’s much safer for fabrics and colors.

Does oxygen bleach sanitize laundry?

Oxygen bleach can reduce bacteria and odors in laundry but is not considered a full disinfectant like chlorine bleach. For sanitation, use hot water along with oxygen bleach for the best results.

Can oxygen bleach be used on all surfaces?

While oxygen bleach is safe for many surfaces, it’s not suitable for delicate materials like silk or wool. Always test a small, hidden area first before applying it widely.

What's the best oxygen bleach?

The best oxygen bleach depends on your needs, but popular brands like OxiClean and Seventh Generation are highly rated by our cleaning experts.

Karina Toner recommends this OxiClean Stain Remover Bundle from Amazon, saying, 'This pack will have you covered for multiple jobs around the home, and is specifically designed to tackle odor-heavy cleaning tasks.'

Look for products with a high concentration of sodium per carbonate for maximum effectiveness.

So there you have it – 10 genius ways to use oxygen bleach to clean your home. Oxygen bleach is an incredibly versatile cleaning tool that’s both powerful and safe for your home. From tackling tough stains to deodorizing surfaces, it’s a must-have for any cleaning routine.

Next, check out the cleaning myths that will damage your countertops – plus what to do instead.

Stainless steel pots and pans not only work well – they look great too if you can avoid cleaning mistakes.

Non-toxic, durable and non-porous, steel cookware is resistant to bacterial growth, making it great for professional chefs and novice home cooks alike. But, how do you clean them without damaging them in the process?

I spoke to professional cleaners for their cleaning tips to take your stainless steel cookware from stained to sparkling, and make it look (almost) good as new.

7 stainless steel cleaning mistakes to avoid

1. Scrubbing with abrasive sponges

One of the main mistakes to avoid when cleaning kitchenware, in particular stainless steel, is using any kind of abrasive sponge or brush.

Steve Evans, owner of Memphis Maids, explains, 'These will create micro scratches, and they're just not necessary.' Instead, Evans recommends using a non-scratch scrubber, such as the Scrub Daddy Color Sponges available at Amazon, and wiping in a soft, circular motion.

Similarly, Carolina Kazimierksi, president and co-owner of Sophia's Cleaning Service, advises that stainless steel is one of the things to never use steel wool on, saying, 'While many people might not care as much about the aesthetic appearance of their cookware, I recommend sticking with softer cloths and brushes for cleaning if you're looking to keep stainless steel cookware in the best possible condition.'

To avoid scratches, you can also polish stainless steel by cleaning it with old socks. Sounds strange, we know, but it works a treat for a shining finish.

All prices correct at time of publication.

2. Overheating your cookware during cleaning

Karina Toner, cleaning expert and operations manager at Spekless, says, 'Using extremely hot water or overheating an empty pan while cleaning can cause discoloration (rainbow or blue stains) on stainless steel.'

To avoid this, always let cookware cool down before cleaning, and use warm – not boiling – water to wash and rinse.

If your cookware is already discolored, Toner recommends using Bar Keepers Friend Superior Cookware Cleanser & Polish available at Amazon, to effectively remove discoloration without damaging the surface, which also works well to clean a burnt stainless steel pan, too.

3. Using strong chemicals

Stainless steel pots, pans and other cookware are items to never clean with bleach, says Steven Ip, owner of Cleanzen Boston Cleaning Services.

He warns, 'Bleach or any cleaners with strong chemicals can cause the metal to corrode or get damaged. Avoid these entirely!'

Instead, stainless steel is one of the things you can clean with the Pink Stuff, which will remove stubborn stains without causing any damage.

4. Cooking with stainless steel incorrectly

While not necessarily a cleaning mistake per se, cleaning expert Evans advises that neglecting to use stainless steel cookware correctly when cooking will make cleaning it afterward much more difficult.

He says, 'Stainless steel is a fantastic material for cookware, but a mistake I can think of is people not using their cookware properly. You have to let it reach the right temperature, so your food won't stick to it.

'If you add a few drops of water, it should form small beads that slide across the surface. At that point, it's hot enough that food won't stick to it, which makes it easier to clean.'

Next time you're testing any party food recipes, trying your hand at Italian recipes, or simply cooking a midweek meal in your stainless steel pan, ensure it's up to the right temperature before adding any food, particularly high protein foods such as eggs, fish or meat, which can easily stick when pan frying.

5. Using excessive dish soap

While stainless steel certainly isn't one of the things you shouldn't clean with soap, Dan Schneider, cleaning expert and co-founder of Good Laundry advises against using too much.

He explains, 'Using excessive dish soap or skipping the rinse can leave behind residue that dulls the cookware over time. This residue may also impact the taste of your food.

'After washing, wash and pat dry with a soft towel to help retain the appearance of the shine. If maintained properly, the stainless steel cookware may also last longer.'

We also recommend using a natural dish soap, such as the Molly's Suds Liquid Dish Soap available at Amazon, rather than a stronger alternative, which has a mild pH and is gentle on both cookware and hands.

6. Cleaning a hot pan with cold water

Just as you shouldn't overheat your pan when washing it, it's also crucial not to cool it down too quickly, says cleaning expert Kazimierski.

'I think people underestimate just how delicate a material stainless steel can be,' she reveals. 'As with lots of other cookware materials, running cold water over a hot stainless steel pan can result in warping,' which is also why you shouldn't put stainless steel, or non-stick pans in the dishwasher.

'If you have a stainless steel pan that no longer sits flat on your burner, this could be the cause. This will result in uneven cooking and is a sign it's time to replace your pots and pans.'

Kazimierski recommends instead always allowing a hot pan to cool down to room temperature before putting it in the sink to clean. Moving it to a cold ring on your cooker while you eat will usually do the trick so by the time you're ready to wash up, it will have cooled down enough to prevent damage to the pan, or to your hands.

7. Cleaning with baking soda alone

While stainless steel cookware is one of things you can clean with baking soda, it's important to do so with caution.

Logan Taylor, founder of Dazzle Company, says, 'I would never recommend using baking soda alone to clean stainless steel cookware, as it is a mild abrasive that can also cause scratches and micro-abrasions.'

To avoid this, mix baking soda with water to form a past and apply it gently, which can also come in handy when cleaning a stainless steel sink. If you do prefer not to use chemicals, you can also clean stainless steel pans with vinegar, too.

'I often use a specialized stainless steel cleaner like Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner and Polish available at Amazon for a shiny finish,' adds Taylor.

Castile soap, available at Amazon, is a non-toxic and extremely versatile cleaning agent. Its natural oils will combat grease, grime, and help polish up the stainless steel. Essential oils are brilliant for cleaning stainless steel.

FAQs

Why does my stainless steel pan never look clean?

If you're struggling to make your stainless steel pan look clean, no matter how hard you try, it's likely that you have hard water that is causing mineral buildup. This can be removed by cleaning with vinegar, and you may want to install a hard water filter such as the Brita Faucet Mount Water Filter for Sink available at Amazon.

Struggling to clean enameled cast iron? These coveted cookware items need special care, says our kitchen editor Lydia Hayman.

Given that I live in a small two-bedroom terrace, my rooms have to work hard and house a lot of stuff. Nowhere is this more true than in my home office, which is forced to double as a guest bedroom when we have people come to stay (and a laundry drying room the rest of the time).

It is perhaps unsurprising, then that this spot quickly becomes backed up with clutter. It is my universal dumping ground, where I do all my work and spend a fair bit of my free time crafting. When I learned that I had a guest coming to stay for a night mid-week, I knew I had to pull off something drastic to get it ready.

Tight on time, I started looking for quick decluttering methods that wouldn’t leave me more stressed than I started. That is when I stumbled across the 1-3-5 trick – an approach that helps cut clutter and keep it that way for longer, and I’m thankful to say it made the whole task 10 times more manageable.

What is the 1-3-5 hack?

The concept of this '1-3-5' decluttering tip is straightforward – something I was incredibly grateful for when desperate to tackle decluttering when I feel overwhelmed and prepare to host guests without a guest bedroom.

1. Focus on one main task that will help you achieve your goal. For me, this was clearing visual clutter from my office to make room for a guest bed.
2. Set yourself three secondary tasks that are easier to tackle than the first (i.e. they do not require as much time or energy), but still help you achieve your goal.
3. Finally, do five much smaller tasks that take no effort at all to finish the space off and help to keep it neat.

I tried it

I gave it a go, and here is how it went in my home ahead of guests arriving:

I removed the bulk of my clutter

The first step was the biggest – removing all the visual clutter and sorting it into things that needed to go away, and things that needed to be thrown out. This felt a lot like doing the scary hour productivity trick. To make this easier, I used my trusty ski-slope organizing technique, working back and forth across the room with my laundry basket to collect anything that didn't belong in the space. I prefer this one, as it allows me to corral everything into an easily movable basket so I can walk around with it to put things away.

This means I can take everything into my bedroom and pick out all the items that live in there to go away, then the living room, etc. By the end, I am left with items that don’t have a home. These are usually trash items I can then toss out, or pieces I need to find a spot for, which can be sorted using the pile tip. And, given that I need to use my laundry basket regularly to do laundry, I have no choice but to empty it completely each time I commit to a decluttering session.

This was the most time consuming part of the task, as I ended up having to also declutter and organize my drawers to fit all my essential items back in. Let’s just say a lot of items ended up going in the trash – from dried out pens to old note paper that had scrawled notes even I couldn’t read. The room was already starting to look far tidier, functional and presentable.

I did three medium tasks

Even with everything put in their proper homes, the room was still looking a little busy to the eye. This is perhaps unsurprising, however, given the lack of closed storage and the fact that we’re stressed by the visual clutter of open storage. I took the time to identify three areas I reckoned could be improved before my guest arrived.

1. The bookcase: It's my only real storage in my office besides my office desk drawers and a storage basket beneath a chair in the corner. This is a massive source of visual noise in the room – which is something you want to avoid to improve sleep. To help my guest sleep better and feel at home during their visit, I decided to organize my bookshelf so that all the books were together and standing upright, rather than being laid down haphazardly on top of stacked books or in front of them. This also meant decluttering books, which I am going to donate to my local thrift store.
2. The drop zone: Whether I like it or not, my office is the main drop zone for items that don't have a home yet in my house. Because of the lack of storage, this is not something I can get around – but I knew it had to be improved upon. So, I sourced an underused storage basket from elsewhere in my home and popped it in the corner where I usually leave things ‘to be dealt with later’. It isn’t the ideal fix, but it helps keep everything together and look a little neater while we have someone staying over. This is a trick I learned when testing Desire Path decluttering.
3. Dealing with dirt: My home office is generally quite clean. I vacuum once a week and I keep a cloth on my desk to wipe up drink spills and remove dust whenever my desk is looking a little worse for wear. Since testing out (and falling in love with) the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster, I decided to make my third medium task dusting – making sure I targeted the newly organized bookshelves, the window ledge, and the side table my guests could use as a temporary nightstand.

I finished with five small tasks

The final five tasks were tiny finishing ones that would pull the room together with minimal effort. Having completed the main task and powered through the three medium tasks, I was easily motivated to get through the final five as I was on a roll.

1. I threw away all the trash I'd collected and emptied the office trash can.
2. I ensured the plug sockets closest to the bed were clear so my guest could charge their phone overnight.
3. I made the temporary guest bed and misted it with a linen spray, available on Amazon, to help my guest sleep well away from home.
4. I popped a copy of the Wi-Fi password on the temporary nightstand.
5. I moved the drop box basket out of the guest room and into my bedroom for the time being so it wasn’t in my guest's way.

My verdict

This way of breaking down the task of streamlining made tackling the whole room in one go a breeze. Rather than thinking of the entire space as one big daunting pile of clutter, it helped me visualize the essential steps of my pre-guests cleaning checklist and achieve my goal. I also loved that I could pair it with my favorite decluttering approach to make it work for me. It certainly helped me get motivated to declutter.

While I powered through everything in just under two hours, it is easily a task you could break down into timed sections too, working on the one major task before taking a break and coming back to do the three medium and five small tasks as you have the time and energy.

Overall, I think this is a great trick for completing any household tasks – be it decluttering or finding cleaning balance in your home. Better yet, it can be paired with the different day, different room housekeeping schedule to help you stay on top of all the spaces in your home – big or small.

It's also a simple way to tackle the five things designers declutter from living rooms to prepare for holiday hosting.

The rise of robot vacuums is a welcome innovation for those of us who dread the chore (and let's be real, who actually enjoys vacuuming?). One of the leading brands in the world of self-powered vacuums is Shark, who continues to release high-tech iterations of the smart robot vacuum – and considers some high-profile figures among their fans.

Kris Jenner is just one of Shark's users, having recently shared a promotional video for the Shark PowerDetect Self-Empty Robot Vacuum (available on Amazon). As Jenner jokingly states in the clip, it 'leaves no crumbs,' reaching every crevice of space for spotless floors.

With sale season in full swing, we are in luck – while this cult-favorite vacuum typically retails for $799.99, it is currently retailing for half price, at a reasonable $399.99.

Shop Kris Jenner's Vacuum Edit

Some of the main selling points include the vacuum's NeverStuck Technology, which lifts & lowers to maneuver over obstacles, as well as its DirtDetect Technology, which senses hidden debris and then boosts suction. Meanwhile, the EdgeDetect technology uses blasts of air to remove debris from corners and edges into its cleaning path.

You can also set cleaning schedules and timers while the vacuum itself holds up to 60 days worth of dust and debris. Additionally, there's a built-in odor neutralizer, ensuring that vacuumed rooms smell fresh and clean after use.

With boxing week due to wrap up in just a few days, we would make a move on this deal before it's too late. Shop the Shark PowerDetect Self-Empty Robot Vacuum below on Amazon, along with some essential accessories we have rounded up below. They're everything you need to prepare your home for a fresh start ahead of 2025.

Sometimes, getting the motivation to actually start cleaning can be really difficult.

I always seem to find myself rushing from one place to the next, and struggle to find time to get cleaning done between working and socializing. So, when I heard of the 'One Hour' cleaning method, I couldn't think of a more perfect solution for me.

Having tried it out, it's a cleaning tip I will definitely be using going forward. Here's why.

What is the 'One Hour' cleaning method?

In a world of methods that promise to change up your cleaning routine, The 'One Hour' cleaning method is as simple as it sounds – you set a timer for one hour and see how much you can get done.

So, with my timer set and a podcast playing, I set to work. This is everything I managed to get done in just one hour.

I washed up

First things first, I had some washing up to get done, so figured that was a good place to start.

Using Fairy Liquid Lemon available at Amazon, I got that done, and even deep cleaned my oven tray. At the end of the hour, my washing up was dry, so I was able to put it away into my kitchen cabinet ideas, and drawers promptly – which is one of my rules for a clutter-free kitchen.

Put away groceries

While not necessarily cleaning as such, I put away some groceries I had picked up earlier in my fridge storage ideas. There are ways to organize your home after bulk buying, but as I had only got a few bits, I popped them away to reduce visual clutter in the kitchen.

Straightened up the living room

Next, I headed into the living room to straighten up my sofa, put blankets away and fixed my sagging couch cushions by fluffing them up.

Sorted and put away laundry

If you're anything like me, you will always be looking for laundry hacks to save time, which are perfect when trying out the 'One Hour' cleaning method.

One of the organizing tricks I use to make laundry easier is sorting my dirty washing ahead of time. Within my allotted hour, I picked up the clothes that were ready for the wash from my bedroom, and put away my ironing into my closet organization ideas.

If you're not sure how to sort clothes for laundry, separate by color primarily, then fabric – and don't forget to wash heavily soiled items separately. For example, I always wash my running gear separately, as gym and normal clothes are things you should never wash together in the washing machine.

Cleaned the bathroom

Next, with time still left on the clock, I headed downstairs to clean the bathroom. This is where I spent the bulk of my time. I:

• Cleaned mold in the shower: using spray such as the RMR-141 Mold and Mildew Killer available at Amazon.
• Cleaned the sink and bath: Using the Lysol Power Foaming Cleaning Spray for Bathrooms available at Amazon.
• Polished the faucets: Using the same spray and J-cloth, such as the Clorox Handi Wipes Multi-Use Reusable Cloths available at Amazon. Recently I tried cleaning hard water stains on my faucets with toothpaste, and was thoroughly impressed with the results.
• Dusted surfaces: I just used another, clean, dry J-cloth, but you could also use a microfiber cloth, such as the MR.SIGA Microfiber Cleaning Cloths available at Walmart, or the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster, available at Amazon.

I even had time to empty the bathroom trash can and sort out the recycling. Then, my time was up!

My verdict

Would I use the 'One Hour' cleaning method again? Yes.

It was such an efficient way to clean a house fast for someone who loves to procrastinate cleaning tasks, and I even managed to almost completely clean my bathroom in less than 30 minutes. Next time, I think I'll use a Wheel of Chores to determine the order in which I do things, but even just working through my to-do list was effective, too.

FAQs

How do professionals clean so fast?

Cleaning pros are so efficient as they don't circle back to areas, and instead complete all the tasks in one specific space before moving on.

Similarly, the one touch tidying rule is an effective way to speed up sorting, by putting items away with one touch, without setting them down to deal with later.

With my newfound enthusiasm for quick cleaning, I will be trying the one spot cleaning trick next – after all, why not not harness the feeling of getting motivated to clean.

It's difficult enough to find space to store items around the home, but the problems only increase when things are stuffed away incorrectly.

In fact, from books to kitchen gadgets and luggage, storing items incorrectly doesn't just make your life more difficult – it also risks damaging them, and exposing them to damp, mold and mildew in the process.

Here, our panel of professional organizers and storage experts share the items you're definitely storing in the wrong place, and advise on avoiding the organizing mistakes everyone makes.

Why storing things in the 'wrong' place is a problem

Billy Kornfield, owner of Camelot Moving and Storage Company, explains, 'The main culprits that can damage items in our home are temperature, light, and moisture.

'So whether you're choosing where to store something based on convenience or presentation, keep in mind how that item’s environment might change throughout the day.'

1. Books

Bookshelf ideas are a beautiful way to show off your collection and bring a charming cozy feel to a space, but Peter Corry, founder and CEO of Moore Storage, points out that many homeowners put books away into bedroom closets because of limited shelf space.

He says, 'Out-of-sight books often go unread and collect dust. Depending on the situation, they may even get moldy.' They can also become prone to cockroaches, which like to eat the glue, silverfish that light to eat paper and other indoor pests.

To avoid this, Corry recommends hanging floating shelves in your living room ideas, or consider reading nook ideas to elevate your treasured display. 'The Homfa Floating Wall Shelves from Walmart work great for book displays,' he adds.

It is then important to dust open shelves, says storage expert Kornfield, and keep the bookshelves and display cases against interior walls only. 'Exterior walls experience greater changes in temperature and are vulnerable to moisture and condensation,' he explains.

All prices correct at time of publication.

2. Rarely used kitchen gadgets in prime drawer space

Kitchen appliances are essential for cooking and baking, but ones that you don't use often shouldn't be stored in easily accessible spots when you organize kitchen drawers, says Di Ter Avest, professional organizer and founder of Diisorganized. Instead, reserve this space specifically for the things you should store in drawers.

She explains, 'Appliances and gadgets like waffle makers, fondue pots, or pasta rollers can take up valuable kitchen real estate while only being used occasionally. This makes your everyday tools harder to access,' and they end up becoming items cluttering your kitchen drawers.

'Relocate rarely used items to higher shelves, pantry ideas, or even a storage area outside the kitchen if space is tight,' recommends Ter Avest. 'Keep everyday essentials like knives, spatulas and measuring cups in accessible drawers or cabinets near where you cook.'

To organize kitchen drawers, we recommend using an organizer, such as the Pipishell Bamboo Expandable Drawer Organizer for Utensils Holder available at Amazon.

3. Medicine

When it comes to organizing a medicine cabinet, keep your medicines away from any bathing products, says storage expert Kornfield.

He advises, 'While medication is within easy reach in the bathroom cabinet, it is also susceptible to moisture and heat. Keep it in a cool, dry place, like a dresser drawer out of reach of children,' or, as professional organizer Ter Avest suggests, in one of your small linen closet storage ideas.

4. Seasonal items

As they're only needed once a year, it's best not to keep any Christmas decorating ideas, spring decor ideas, or any other seasonal items in prime storage spots.

Storage expert Corry says, 'For a better solution, use higher shelves or less accessible spaces for seasonal items,' such as garage shelving ideas.

'For frequently used items, I recommend the mDesign Storage Bins available at Amazon for more saved space.'

You can store them in your basement, attic or garage, but keep them in lidded plastic containers so you don't end up with pests seeking shelter or harborage among them.

5. Important documents

Even after getting rid of paper clutter, organizing paperwork at home can often feel stressful.

Professional organizer Ter Avest says, 'Scattering important documents like birth certificates, passports, or tax documents makes them hard to locate when needed and increases the risk of damage.

'Instead, use a fireproof document organizer or file cabinet. Keep it in a secure and consistent spot, like a home office or closet,' she suggests.

It's one of the items the pros say to never store in a basement or attic as these are usually not climate controlled and if there is a leak or flood, key items will be ruined.

6. Photo albums

Photo albums are a beautiful way to keep memories, meaning they should be enjoyed, not stored away in closet storage spaces, say Scott and April Goodger, franchise owners of Kitchen Wise and Closet Wise.

They say, 'Surprisingly, a disorganized closet can add to stress in your daily life. As closet design professionals, we regularly see master closets that are jam packed with just about anything you can imagine, like photo albums.

'However, many of these items belong in other areas of the house.' For example the Goodgers suggest keeping photo albums in your home office ideas, or bookcase.

Otherwise, why not display them in a gallery wall. If you're not sure how to hang a gallery wall, our expert-led guide breaks it down step-by-step, so you're able to avoid any gallery wall mistakes.

7. Luggage

Finally, professional organizer Ter Avest says, 'Luggage takes up valuable space in closets that could be better used for clothes or shoes.

'Instead, store luggage in the attic, basement ideas, or garage. You can also use the interior of suitcases to store seasonal clothes,' which is a clever way to organize a closet if you don't have seasonal storage.

Are you making any underbed organizing mistakes? It's a great spot to store items, but maximizing the space can help cut clutter around the home.

No one likes to think about cleaning at Christmas, but it is an essential task to avoid your home falling into disarray and knock out the risk of you New Year’s clean-up becoming overwhelming.

If you are already rushed off your feet wrapping gifts, going on a trip, or are feeling low energy at this highly charged time of the year, you likely don’t want to be spending hours refreshing your home.

Luckily, professional cleaners have an arsenal of super-quick last-minute pre-Christmas cleaning tasks that take less than five minutes apiece to help you reset your home for Christmas day without wasting the last of your energy.

Quick last-minute pre-Christmas cleaning tasks

Whether or not you deep clean your home before or after Christmas will come down to your energy levels, whether you are hosting or not, and how much available time you have.

If you need to opt for a quicker approach to cleaning before the big day, these are the six spots to focus your attention on.

1. Declutter key spaces only

It never hurts to work through some pre-Christmas decluttering rules, but if you only have a few spare minutes, focus on the key areas you will be using over the holidays.

Tim Conn, co-founder and president at Image One USA says, ‘Focus on the key spaces like the entryway, kitchen counters, and coffee tables. You can quickly stash items like mail, shoes, or small appliances to create a tidy, organized space. Guests will immediately notice a clean, clutter-free environment as soon as they arrive.’

2. Pick up tree needles

Keeping a home clean with a real Christmas tree is a never-ending battle, but vacuuming the space around your centerpiece is a quick way to instantly make a room feel less overwhelming.

However, Sarah Aparacio, a cleaning expert at Homeaglow suggests using your best vacuum cleaner as normal might not be the best approach. ‘Don’t just roll over pine needles with your vacuum cleaner! The needles (along with any sap and resin) can easily clog roller brushes or damage the internal parts of your vacuum cleaner. While there is still a risk of clogging, using your vacuum’s attachments and hoses can help to reduce this and still quickly pick up pine needles that have fallen.’

She also adds, ‘Lint rollers [from Walmart] are great for picking up small amounts of pine needles that have fallen from your Christmas tree, especially on upholstery or even carpets, where the needles can get bedded into the fibers. It is best to keep lint rollers for quick and isolated amounts of pine needles, as you’ll likely need to replace sheets often,’ she points out, ‘and the costs associated can quickly add up if you need to buy new rollers.’

There are some ways you can stop your Christmas tree from shedding needles if you want to try to stop the problem at the source and cut back on cleaning entirely including keeping it adequately hydrated.

3. Polish high-touch surfaces

Spot cleaning to 'target hygiene' (cleaning high-touch surfaces) is essential in winter when coughs and colds are incredibly prevalent and the number of people coming in and out of your home likely increased.

Tim Conn, a cleaning expert suggests, ‘Using a microfiber cloth and giving high-touch areas like door handles, faucets, counters, and stainless steel appliances a quick polish. These small touches can instantly make your home sparkle and feel fresh.’

Spritz an anti-bacterial cleaning solution, such as Lysol sanitizing spray available at Amazon, onto your cloth for germ control. Color zoning your cleaning cloths will stop the spread of illness-inducing bacteria from bathrooms to other spaces in the home.

4. Freshen up floors

Mopping floors the right way and knowing how often you should vacuum will play a huge part in keeping your home looking its best both before and after Christmas – and they are super quick to do before guests arrive or you slump onto the sofa with post-Christmas dinner exhaustion.

Tim continues, ‘Give your floors a fast refresh by sweeping high-traffic areas, then spot-vacuuming areas like the living room, dining room, and entryway. This is a simple way to make your home feel tangibly cleaner and more inviting without having to do a full deep clean.’

This is when having one of the best robot vacuums in play will save you even more time. Punteha van Terheyden, head of Solved, tried and reviewed the eufy Omni Pro S1 robot vacuum and mop, available at Amazon and eufy, and found it reduced her canister vacuum use by a whopping 90 per cent. She gave it five stars after testing it in her home for a number of weeks.

5. Freshen up the air

It is easy to feel rough around the edges when we are shut up indoors all day. Improving your indoor air quality is a must to help boost your energy levels before the big day.

If you don’t want to cool your house down, the best way to do this is with the best air purifier, however, we recommend opening windows in winter to allow fresh air to flow through your home. Doing this first thing in the morning before you turn your heating on will help flush stale air out and make your home smell nice. Opening one or two windows on opposite sides of your home will create a through-breeze to clean your home’s air quickly.

Just remember to shut them again before burning on heating to make heating more efficient. Even 10 minutes of fresh air can be very restorative and also help reduce humidity and condensation in your home.

6. Run a cleansing dishwasher cycle

If any appliance is going to see some serious use over Christmas, it is going to be your best dishwasher. Taking five minutes to run a cleaning cycle will ensure it stays working at maximum capacity over the holiday, so you spend less time rewashing or scraping stubborn food.

Cleaning expert at My Job Quote, Sarah Dempsey says, ‘Cleaning your dishwasher regularly is the best way to keep it clean from mold and limescale. Focus attention specifically on the door seal, filter and spray arms. Use white vinegar [available at Walmart] to target limescale and run it empty on its hottest cycle, to help remove food residue and any associated smells.  

‘For quick cleaning before Christmas, invest in a specific dishwasher cleaner [such as the best-selling Affresh, available at Walmart] and ensure salts and rinse aid are topped up. Dishwasher salt softens the water and ultimately improves the machine's overall cleaning performance. Rinse aid [such as Finish Jet-Dry Rinse Agent, from Walmart] helps the water to rinse off the items inside the machine, meaning they dry quicker and with fewer water marks.’

Running through these simple and quick last-minute cleaning tasks will make tidying as you go on Christmas day a little bit easier, no matter if it is just the two of you, or a full house with all the extended family. And they won’t zap all your energy before, either.

When it comes down to it, cleaning your home caters for your five senses. You want your home to look beautiful, smell amazing and fresh, feel comfortable, be sanitized for eating delicious meals, and sound peaceful – think soft music or a familiar radio station.

So, why not use your five senses to clean? After all, a home that is sensory-pleasing will be a relaxing sanctuary.

Here, we spoke to cleaning experts for their cleaning tips on using this method – for a beautiful home that reflects a tranquil mind.

What is the 'Five Senses' cleaning method?

Karina Toner, cleaning expert and operations manager at Spekless, explains, 'This method transforms cleaning from a purely functional task into a full experience to stimulate and satisfy all five senses.'

• Sight: 'A clean, organized space simply looks better – it's tidy, bright, and inviting, making the whole room feel more put together,' says Toner.
• Sound: Adding relaxing sounds which suit your space, whether they are soft music, rain sounds or something else, can instantly make you feel calm. And, if you're a lover of cleaning, Will Cotter, owner of DeluxeMaid, says, 'Sound can be enjoying the the hum of your best vacuum, the swish of a mop, the trickle of water, or the satisfying click of a drawer closing.'
• Smell: This can be letting in fresh air through open windows, lighting your best candle, using essential oils, or simply using great smelling cleaning products to set the mood of your space.
• Taste: Cleaning your kitchen will ensure that your home is safe for food prep, presentation and eating home-cooked meals with friends and family. Or, as Cotter says, 'Once the job is done, it’s great to treat yourself to a tasty snack or whatever you’re craving.'
• Touch: Of course, no one wants to touch a surface and be left with a sticky, sinking feeling. Beyond that, 'Soft blankets, smooth countertops, and freshly laundered towels feel amazing and make your home more comfortable and welcoming,' says Toner.

'It’s really more than just making your home look good – it helps make it feel like home too.'

Why is the 'Five Senses' cleaning method effective?

So, why is cleaning with your five senses so effective?

Well, Galia Ivanova, owner at Cleaning Estimate, says, 'What I like most about this method is that it goes beyond just making things look tidy. Normally we think of "clean" as just a shiny counter, or a vacuumed rug, but this approach makes you consider how a space feels, smells, sounds, and even tastes in a subtle way, like having fresh fruit out or choosing cleaning products that don't leave a weird aftertaste in the air.

'It’s really about creating a place you actually want to spend time in, not just a room that’s technically dirt-free,' by grounding yourself in your space and taking it all in. Therefore, it's especially good for cleaning when feeling overwhelmed.

Does a clean house make you happier? We're not suggesting that cleaning is the answer to all of life's problems, but studies have shown that a tidy house really can reflect a tidy mind – so using your senses can ensure that your space aligns with what you, as an individual, need from your home.

How to use the 'Five senses' cleaning method

Unlike most things in life, this method really is as simple as it sounds. First, begin by gathering your cleaning supplies, so you can tackle problems as you notice them. It might make it easier, and more enjoyable, to throw them all into a big plastic basket, such as the Mainstays Large White Decorative Storage Basket available at Walmart, which will also come in handy when doing laundry.

Then, Hilary Cooper, home organizer and founder of Uncluttered advises, 'Touch all of your bathroom and kitchen countertops, walk barefoot throughout your home, open every drawer and cabinet. This is an ideal way to look at your home as an outsider.'

As cleaning expert Karina Toner points out, this makes cleaning a mindful task, making you more attuned to details you might otherwise miss, usually resulting in a deeper, more thorough clean.

'It can also work for anyone,' she adds. 'You can tailor the sensory elements like the scents, sounds, and textures to match your personal preferences or mood.'

Which rooms to use the 'Five Senses' cleaning method in

Really, the 'Five Senses' cleaning method is suitable for use all around the house, but cleaning expert Cotter recommends it most for communal areas.

He says, 'It's great for the living room, definitely! Or any rooms or spaces that are commonly used. Also, entryway ideas. It might be the last thing for some people but for me, this space sets the tone for how the rest of the house would feel and look.'

Once clean, why not add one of your best reed diffusers, which is one of the things people with nice-smelling entryways always do.

For cleaning expert Toner, your kitchen ideas will benefit the most from the 'Five Senses' cleaning method. She says, 'Clean, shiny counters and sanitized surfaces not only look great, but also make food prep safer. Getting rid of lingering kitchen odors and replacing them with fresh scents, like citrus and herbs, really transforms the kitchen space.

The kitchen also presents the opportunity to play with scent – using more unusual fragrances, like Loewe's tomato candle. This unusual yet alluring LOEWE PERFUMES Tomato Leaves medium scented candle is available at NET-A-PORTER, but there are also plenty of more affordable alternatives available online.

For living room ideas, cleaning expert Ivanova says, 'I play attention to textures, making sure the throw blankets are actually soft and not just decorative.' Make sure you know how often you should wash your blankets, too.

'And I've realized even a small bit of ambient music – something light and not distracting – makes a difference,' she adds. 'It's about making the space feel right from every angle.'

Tips for making the 'Five Senses' cleaning method even more effective

As this cleaning method can be interpreted in different ways, the way it's used effectively will depend on the individual.

For cleaning expert Cotter, his 'non-negotiables' are food and music. He says, 'Eat before you clean so you’re fueled. If halfway you get hungry, it’s okay to eat too. Then, play your favorite playlist.

'I have one for workout (anything upbeat), for working (Christmas lo-fi this season!) and specifically for cleaning (my top 2024 songs on Spotify at the moment). It just gets me in the mood. Plus, singing along makes the time fly.'

Cleaning expert Toner prefers to think more practically, reminding us to declutter regularly, removing unnecessary items as part of an achievable cleaning routine, as 'a clean, uncluttered room instantly feels more organized and inviting.

'Clean windows and open blinds to let sunlight fill the space and brighten the room. Incorporate colorful accents like throw pillows or fresh flowers.

'Deep clean fabrics by washing and caring for curtains and drapes,' and neutralize odors with homemade room spray and cleaning with baking soda when tackling carpets or trashcans.

Then, polish wood furniture with Pledge Expert Care Wood Polish Spray available at Amazon, so it's smooth to the touch, and consider trying a simmer pot recipe to fill your home with a unique, personalized scent that's tailored to your space.

For cleaning expert Ivanova, 'The key is not the overdo it. You don't want competing scents or blasting music. Keep everything balances, and lean towards gentle, plant-based cleaners that don't leave a chemical smell.

'One I've really liked is the Aunt Fannie's All Purpose Cleaning Vinegar available at Amazon, because it cleans well but doesn't smell fake or overpowering.'

Ultimately, the beauty of this cleaning method is in the eye of the beholder – so why not give it a go yourself.

Next, learn about the 20/10 cleaning method, which is ideal for getting tasks done while incorporating breaks into your routine.

As much as I love cleaning, I don’t want to spend all my free time doing so. That's why, since moving in with my partner two years ago, I made it my mission to get all the menial chores out of the way on a Friday, so the weekends could be spent off-duty.

I love a clean and tidy home as much as the next person. A spotless space soothes my soul and helps me feel more calm, collected and in control. Taking 30 minutes every Friday to speed-clean bothersome sections of my home has been transformative.

Of course, everyone swears by their own cleaning tips but this truly works, and has made it easy to stick to for more than 100 weeks. Whether it’s giving my floors a once over, wiping down my dining table or tackling my bathroom – my 'Friday 30' routine kick starts the weekend just right.

My 'Friday 30' speed-cleaning hack

Studies have proven that a clean house makes you happier. I’ve definitely seen and felt the benefits a clean and tidy home can bring.

Previously, I'd start my weekends feeling like I was on edge or unable to sit down. But after cleaning for just 30 minutes at the end of the working week, I've reclaimed my weekends.

Come Friday night, no matter what the week has thrown my way, I feel in control and calm.

Explaining why this might be the case, Carolina Kazimierski, president and co-owner at Illinois-based Sophia's Cleaning Service says, ‘A messy or dirty home can make people feel on edge because it can serve as a constant reminder of something they have to do at some point.'

‘We’ve all experienced times where we want to relax, but we can’t because we have a responsibility looming over our heads,' the expert continues. 'When your home is messy or dirty, you physically can’t escape the reminder that, at some point, you’ll have to clean, and that can lead to feelings of anxiety or stress.’

Noticing how much happier I feel on the weekends after a quick spruce-up is the sole reason why I have stuck to this 30-minute cleaning ritual for the past two years. It helps me roll into Saturdays feeling like I've already won, and is undoubtedly a cleaning habit to beat winter blues throughout the colder months, too.

Whether it’s putting pots and pans away, disinfecting the WC or vacuuming away crumbs left by the wayside, this smart habit helps me spend less time cleaning and more time relaxing. Which is what weekends are for, right?

What you'll need

The products you'll need will depend on the areas of your home you intend to clean.

Everyone has their favorite products that work for them and their home. But these are a handful of my ultimate cleaning supplies I reach for time and time again (and especially on a Friday afternoon).

Not only do these tried and tested faves help me freshen up my home quickly, they smell great and don’t cost the earth.

• Floor cleaner: If, like me, you have wooden floors throughout your home, Method’s Squirt + Mop Hardwood Floor Cleaner, which you can pick up from Amazon. It's the floor cleaning product I swear by. Easy to use, the one-stop wooden floor cleaning product smells good and is planet-friendly. You'll just need to pick up a reusable mop with a microfibre head, like this Wet Spray Mop with 14 oz Refillable Bottle which is an Amazon best-seller, and lather your space in the cleaner. In minutes, you’re floors will be sparkling.
• Multipurpose cleaner: Ideally, it’s a good idea to invest in one that can be used on multiple surfaces, like Zoflora’s Linen Fresh Disinfectant. Available at Walmart for $15 and killing 99.9% of bacteria, the concentrated multi-tasking must-have can be used on most hard surfaces and smells divine. I mix a capful of the stuff in a spray bottle with 400ml of water and spray it all over my kitchen countertops, marble-effect side tables and handles. Then I use a microfiber cloth, like these $6 Amazon Choice HOMEXCEL Cleaning Towels, to wipe dirt away.
• Microfiber towels: These come in handy all over the home. We recommend a multi-pack of microfiber cloths, available from Amazon in different colors so you can color zone your cleaning and avoid cross contamination from naturally dirtier areas of the home.
• Vinegar or baking soda: Both available at Amazon, for natural deodorizing, DIY cleaning solutions and easy grime busting. Learn how to clean with vinegar, and baking soda all over the home.

Why I swear by cleaning for 30 minutes every Friday

1. It’s therapeutic

At least I find it to be! With a ton of emails to tackle, ideas to pitch and articles to write, my 9-5 is spent sitting down and tapping away furiously behind a screen. But cleaning, I feel, gives me a valid excuse to step away from my laptop, clock up some steps and reset my posture (and home at the same time!).

I have also been known to clean when feeling overwhelmed. So, setting aside 30 minutes on Friday has almost become a little act of self-care that not only signals the end of the working week and the start of the weekend, but it helps me feel like I’ve restored some order and headspace.

If you need to get motivated to clean, there are many ways to make cleaning fun. From listening to music and gamifying the cleaning process to encouraging your family to declutter or clean. I tend to listen to a podcast or blast some music.

You can also task stack or body-double to get things done, even if you don't feel like it.

2. A little clean can go a long way

It never fails to surprise me how much can be achieved in 30 minutes.

More often than not, half an hour is long enough to help me clean my house fast. Most Fridays, I’ll tackle areas that I know need doing, like switching out the bed sheets, giving my wooden floors a quick vacuum and tackling the bathroom.

Other Fridays I’ll mop the floors and dust.

While 30 minutes gives me plenty of time to do these tasks, I leave more time-consuming kitchen cleaning chores, like cleaning my oven, or cleaning my washing machine to a monthly schedule.

To help make my Friday 30 cleans quick, I do some basic tidying up during the week, which Kazimierski points out is ‘key’ to making a speed cleaning session quick. 'That way, when the time comes for a speed clean, there are less things you have to do,’ she says.

3. It will make you feel better (I promise)

Who doesn’t love a clean and tidy home? Especially at the start of the weekend, when there are other more important plans, like catching up with friends, family or watching your favorite box set.

I have long given up on the idea that my home has to be spotless, or my cleaning routine has to be perfect. Instead, setting aside a speedy 30 minutes to do quick chores on a Friday, has helped me find the right balance when cleaning my home. If you want to give it a go, and are not sure where to start, why not try cleaning with your five senses to set your space, ideal for cleaning when feeling overwhelmed.

Instead of starting my Saturday feeling chaotic or as though I’ve forgotten to do something, I feel calm, collected and very pleased knowing that my cleaning chores are off my to-do list.

My verdict

Everybody is different. So cleaning for 30 minutes on a Friday is just something that works for me and my schedule. But, as Kazimierski highlights, the best time to clean will depend on the person. ‘We all experience varying levels of motivation and energy at different times of the day, so the key is figuring out when that is for you.’

Kazimierski suggests cleaning sometime during the daylight – not before the sun rises or after the sun sets. ‘Natural light helps with cleaning efficiency, making it easier to do things like notice spots you’ve missed while dusting,’ the expert adds.

But either way, if you’re feeling weighed down come the weekend with the sheer amount of cleaning tasks you have to do, or you’re looking for ways to change up your cleaning routine, this Friday ritual is my favorite hack to help make my to-do list less overwhelming.

For more cleaning tips, check out the best tips we’ve learned from professional cleaners or discover the top 10 cleaning tips for anyone living alone – and why you should never worry about task perfectionism.

Here on the Solved team at Homes & Gardens, we love the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster.

Whether it's wiping sideboards, battling baseboards, or shining mirrors – they're a versatile, reusable cleaning hero for use all around the home. But, like most good things, they don't last forever.

So, how do you know when it's time for a replacement? From bad odors to mold, these are our signs that it's time for a new Scrub Daddy Damp Duster, available at Amazon.

5 signs it's time to replace your Damp Duster

With the right care, a Scrub Daddy Damp Duster will last up to a year, even with all the ways you can use a Damp Duster. However, as with most essential cleaning tools, this will largely depend on how often it's used, and how well you treat it.

All prices correct at time of publication.

1. It smells

It goes without saying, but if you're Damp Duster is starting to smell, it's time for a new one.

This is a hard and fast rule that I always stick to when it comes to replacing any kind of cleaning cloth or knowing when to wash a microfiber cloth, as the sour odor is an indicator of the presence of bacteria. You don't want to spread this around your home.

Before trashing it, try rinsing it, wringing it out, and leaving it to dry completely. Then, check whether the odor is still present. If it perseveres, that's a sign that bacteria has taken hold of the material, so replace it to avoid any cleaning mistakes that might make you sick.

2. It no longer works effectively

Chiana Dickson, content editor on Solved, says, 'I swear by my Damp Duster to remove dust, but once it no longer works effectively, or helps me to clean a house fast, I know it's time for a new one.'

Over time, dust will accumulate more and more on the sponge, becoming embedded in the grooves with each use. As Chiana points out, a Damp Duster already needs frequent rinsing, as it gets dirty so quickly when using it, so if it is particularly clogged, it won't work nearly so well.

Look out for dust residue being left behind, or, worse, your sponge spreading dust rather than picking it up.

3. It's falling apart

As with anything, if your Damp Duster is falling apart, it's a clear sign that it is too old for use, and needs replacing.

Punteha van Terheyden, head of Solved, says, 'If your Damp Duster has been used and loved so much that it's falling to pieces, it won't be working properly, and will trap dust and grime in every crevice. Clinging on to old tools is a bad cleaning habit to break, so regularly check yours over for signs of wear, tear and disintegration.'

Indeed, neglecting cleaning tool maintenance is a counterproductive cleaning practice, that could be spreading dirt and dust, rather than cleaning them.

4. It's moldy

No one wants to have to get rid of black mold, so keep an eye out for mold blooming on your sponge, caused by damp and moistness, to avoid spreading it around.

As a Damp Duster works solely with water, getting it wet is, of course, unavoidable. But, neglecting to wring it out, or leaving it to 'dry' in any humid environment such as bathroom ideas, will only allow common types of household mold to thrive.

It is also advisable that you never use your Damp Duster to clean mold in the shower, or anywhere else for that matter, and leave it to thoroughly dry in a cool, dry place.

If you do spot any mold spots or spores, put it in the trash immediately and grab a new one.

5. It's stained or feels different

Much like mold or a bad odor, an unsanitary Damp Duster will simply spread dirt and bacteria.

Unlike washing kitchen sponges, which are items you should always wash in hot water, with some dish soap, such as the Dawn Ultra Liquid Dish Soap available at Walmart, a Damp Duster should not be rinsed or cleaned with anything but water.

Therefore, if yours looks or feels any different, indicating that it's no longer sanitary for use, cut your losses and replace it as soon as possible – you'll thank yourself later.

Shop our other Scrub Daddy favorites

FAQs

Why is my Damp Duster hard?

Your Damp Duster will go rock-hard once fully dry, but don't worry – all it needs is a quick soak in some water to re-activate it ready for use. For this reason, some people choose to store theirs damp, in one of the surprising uses for Ziploc bags, but be warned that this is likely to invite mold and bacteria, and may speed up the need to replace it.

Is damp dusting better than dry dusting?

Damp dusting is the most efficient, thorough way of dusting, lifting dirt and debris from surfaces without spreading it, or leaving behind any residue.

If you don't have a Damp Duster, pairing a microfiber cloth, such as the MR.SIGA Microfiber Cleaning Cloth available at Walmart with a homemade cleaning spray to repel dust is a brilliant and inexpensive way to efficiently bust dust.

Next, check out these best Black Friday cleaning deals 2024 to find out what else our team recommend spending on.

Truth be told, I’m not the biggest fan of cleaning. Even if I do love the final result of glistening worktops, and discovering the true shine of my somewhat toothpaste-splattered sink, the cleaning obsession that surged during the pandemic seems to have passed me by.

Therefore, I’m always looking for cleaning tips to streamline the process. Got a hack to clean a whole house in 20 minutes? Sign me up. Got a good recommendation for a spray? I’m there.

So, when I came across the viral Minky Homecare M Cloth Cleaning Pad available at Amazon, a dual-sided do-it-all microfiber cloth, I had to give it a go.

Why I love the all-in-one cleaning Minky cloth

Everyone wants their deep clean to be as effective and easy as possible, particularly when it comes to cleaning a house fast. But, this can often mean reaching for disposable cleaning cloths. They're convenient, but not a great way to be sustainable at home, and can often wind up being pretty expensive, too.

As Maria Mooney, non-toxic cleaning expert at Truly Free Home and Truly Free Market, says 'The cloth you choose to clean with will significantly impact the effectiveness, efficiency and outcome of your cleaning efforts,' so it's important to choose the right one to get the job done.

'Whether you’re looking to protect surfaces, trap dirt, or eliminate grease and bacteria, you should base your decision off of the cleaning task at hand to ensure optimal results.'

Enter: the Minky Homecare M Cloth, available at Amazon. It's an ultra-absorbent, soft cleaning pad for use all around the house, ideal for leaving a streak-free finish after every clean. The best part is it can be washed in your best washing machine and reused again and again, making it an inexpensive solution to cleaning your home without harming the planet.

It's great for dusting, scrubbing surfaces, mopping up spills and even dusting down sideboards and countertops. I also appreciate that it comes in three colors to add a bit of flare to my daily chores and make color-coded cleaning a breeze.

After all, as Mooney explains, 'It's important to separate dirty bathroom cloths from other cleaning materials to prevent cross-contamination,' so assigning a color to rooms or areas makes this easier to keep track of.

I like to pair mine with a good strong antibacterial surface cleaner, such as the LYSOL Power Clean Multi-Surface Cleaner available at Amazon, or, if you prefer not to use harsh chemicals, why not try cleaning with vinegar for an eco-friendly alternative. We recommend using the Great Value Distilled White Vinegar available at Walmart to do so, as it's diluted to a 5% acidity to effectively banish bacteria.

There are lots of ways to use vinegar to clean at home so none of the bottle will go to waste.

My verdict

As disposable cloths are a cleaning product I've always thought are a waste of money, I'm ready to save money at home and make this sustainable swap for good. With such sparkling results, it's clear to see why so many people love this unassuming cleaning pad – and now I do too.

One thing to note is, while Minky M Cloths are great for reducing the amount of bacteria on your surfaces, as the small fibers enter small nooks and crevices and whip away dirt much deeper and more effectively than paper towels or wipes, it is still important to know how to wash a microfiber cloth, and do so regularly.

'When washing a microfiber cloth, select a gentle wash cycle in lukewarm water to prevent damaging fibers with hot water,' advises Mooney. 'And be mindful of the detergent you're using, as harsh detergents and fabric softeners can reduce the absorbency of the material.'

Therefore, avoid any microfiber cloth mistakes by washing them often (as they're probably one of the things you aren't washing enough) and correctly. This will keep them hygienic and ensure a thorough, safe clean next time you grab them to clean a bathroom or clean a kitchen.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Our favorite reusable home heroes

Do you have the essential cleaning tools everyone needs? Keep your cabinet stocked with these for a clean and sanitized space, without any unneeded extras.

As a longstanding cleaning professional, I’ve seen it all when it comes to bathrooms, including the good, the bad and very dirty.

Here are the top seven filthy things I always notice in people’s bathrooms that could use some attention, along with easy solutions and product recommendations to keep yours spotless and hygienic.

Being aware of these bathroom dirt hot spots is the first step, so I've provided my top cleaning tips to help you get these areas back on track.

7 things I always notice in dirty bathrooms

I've been a professional cleaner for years, and I am operations manager at Spekless. These are the seven things I never miss in dirty bathrooms.

1. Soap scum build-up on shower doors and tiles

Soap scum creates a cloudy, unsightly layer that’s difficult to clean if left unchecked. It can also harbor bacteria and mold spores, particularly if you neglect to clean the shower tracks.

To clean a shower well, use a dedicated soap scum remover such as the Rain-X Shower Door Cleaner from Amazon — it's effective at removing tough soap scum while adding a protective barrier.

Pair this with a non-abrasive scrubber such as the Scrub Daddy, available at Walmart. It remains stiff when used with cold water, and more malleable in hot water, making it effective but not abrasive to your surfaces. You can also use the Joseph Joseph telescopic scrubber for hard to reach cleaning.

After cleaning, you can also apply a water-repellent spray to prevent build-up. For faucets, consider using wax paper. One of H&G's Solved writers tried buffing candle wax onto faucets to prevent watermarks and found the remarkable results lasted at least a week.

2. Mold and mildew in grout lines

Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments, causing discoloration and even health risks. Learn more about the signs you have mold in your home.

To clean grout of any mold, spay it with a bleach-based cleaner and scrub with a stiff-bristled brush, such as this hard bristle crevice cleaning brush from Amazon. It's slim profile will help you target these tricky areas well. The CleanTech™ 3-in-1 Spot Cleaning Tool available at Joseph Joseph as part of the CleanTech Joseph Joseph kit is great for this, too.

Whilst cleaning with bleach, ensure the bathroom is well-ventilated to avoid breathing in the fumes, and to reduce moisture levels overall, which is a leading cause of bathroom mold.

I recommend the Tilex Mold & Mildew Remover from Amazon as it's an excellent product for quickly eliminating mold and mildew in this space.

Whilst vinegar kills mold, you should never mix bleach and vinegar together.

3. Hard water stains in toilets and sinks

Hard water stains, a build up of mineral deposits found naturally in tap water, can make your sinks and toilets look dirty even when they are not, and can be hard to remove without the right tools.

Use a pumice stone or a descaling cleaner such as the Lime-A-Way Bathroom Cleaner from Amazon to scrub away mineral deposits. Regularly clean these areas to prevent stains from returning.

You can learn more ways to get rid of limescale in our dedicated guide.

4. Hair clogs in drains

Hair clogs not only cause slow drainage, but can also result in unpleasant odors over time. If there is any leak in your pipe, the soap scum and bacteria build up can also lead to mold in your plumbing.

Use a drain snake tool, available at Walmart, to remove hair and debris. Afterwards, prevention is better than cure so considering installing a drain cover to catch hair before it goes down the drain. Empty it after every shower.

I like the TubShroom Drain Protector from Amazon as it's easy-to-use, traps hair well, and keeps your drains clear.

5. Dust and grime on vent fans

Dust accumulation on vents reduce efficiency and recirculate dirt into the air, worsening air quality. It's why you should regularly clean air vents in your bathroom and around the rest of your home.

To do so, simply remove the vent cover, wash it with soap and water, and use your best vacuum on the interior with a brush attachment.

I recommend the Dust-Off Compressed Gas Duster from Amazon, which is perfect for reaching and cleaning hard-to-access areas like vent fans.

6. Rusty showerheads

Rust not only looks bad but also affects water pressure and cleanliness. To combat it, soak your showerhead in a mixture of vinegar and water to dissolve rust and mineral deposits, then scrub gently with an old toothbrush.

I recommend the KleenKing Stainless Steel and Copper Cleaner from Amazon, which is great for restoring the shine to your showerhead and other metal surfaces.

7. Sticky toothbrush holders

Toothbrush holders often collect water, toothpaste residue, and bacteria, which can easily spread germs.

To keep yours clean, rinse the holder weekly with warm, soapy water and let it air dry completely. If yours has been neglected for a while run in the dishwasher if the manufacturer information says that's OK, or scrub with your usual bathroom cleaner and a clean sponge. Rinse and dry before returning your toothbrush and toothpaste to it.

I like the OXO Good Grips Toothbrush Organizer on Amazon as it's designed to allow airflow and prevent water build-up.

By tackling these common issues, you’ll ensure your bathroom stays fresh and welcoming for you and your guests.

Next, learn the dirty things I always spot in kitchens and how you can quickly, and easily, spruce them up.

As a writer and product tester who focuses on cleaning, tidying, and organization at Homes & Gardens, I spend my days interviewing countless cleaning professionals on their tips, tricks, and product recommendations for beautifying a home on a budget.

Over time, I've noticed the way the same products just keep cropping up. From cleaning sprays to scrubbing sponges, it seems that some supplies are recommended by almost everyone with a bit of cleaning know-how.

Here, I've found the best Black Friday deals to stock up on while they're on sale. After all, if the pros never pass up on these products to perfect their cleaning tips, why should we?

Cleaning products experts always recommend

The Pink Stuff

When cleaning pros reveal the things they're stocking up on, I've genuinely lost count of the number of times The Pink Stuff is mentioned – it's considered a 'miracle' cleaner for good reason.

For a start, there are so many things you can clean with The Pink Stuff around the home. From tile grout and soap scum in the bathroom to shining up pans and surfaces in the kitchen, it's multi-use, versatile, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

The best part? The affordable price tag is another reason why cleaning pros just can't seem to get enough.

All prices are correct at the time of publication.

Method All-Purpose Cleaner

I'm a little biased on this one, as I love using Method cleaning products in my own home – but so do the pros.

Vegan, plant-based and cruelty-free, I love the way Method products are formulated without parabens and phthalates, while still effectively cutting through grease and grime. The products smell amazing, too, which is a bonus!

Molly's Suds Laundry Powder

If you have allergies and are aware of cleaning ingredients to avoid, Molly's Suds laundry power is a great option. It's free of synthetic dyes, fragrances, SLS, and optical brighteners, and is available in naturally scented or unscented varieties.

Experts love the way the safer ingredients still offer a powerful clean, helping to lift stains from laundry and get dingy whites white again. They're also certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny.

Scrub Daddy Sponge

Few – if any – cleaning sponges have ever taken the internet by storm the same way that the Scrub Daddy has, for scratch-free cleaning that really works.

With an innovative, exclusive material, the sponge is firmer when dampened with cold water, for scrubbing tough stains, and more absorbent with hot. It's also odor-resistant for up to eight weeks and can be used on all surfaces, including dishes, cutlery, glass, and even shoes.

Recently, Chiana Dickson, an editor on Solved at H&G tried the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster, and loved that too, for efficient dusting without the dread. If you've spotted any signs it's time to replace your Damp Duster, the 2-Pack Damp Clean Duster Sponge available at Amazon is also included in their Black Friday deals.

Microfiber cloths

One of the best tips I've learned from interviewing professional cleaners is that there are a few cleaning tasks that can't be done with a microfiber cloth. Experts love them for their softness, absorbency, and streak-free cleaning abilities.

They're also machine-washable and tumble-dry safe, making them a great reusable option for being sustainable at home. Just avoid any microfiber cloth mistakes by making sure you're clued up on how to wash a microfiber cloth before getting started.

Next, check which other items from our ultimate cleaning supplies list you're missing in your arsenal – now's the time to stock up!

No matter what type of home you are moving into, you should always consider a good deep clean to refresh the space and truly make it yours.

However, this is more true for a rental property that may have gone through a lot of tenants in quicker succession – and where you can’t change out fixtures and fittings and remove their dirt with them.

Here, professional cleaners have revealed the five places you should always clean when moving into a rental, offering their cleaning tips to help you scrub away the remaining dirt and make the space feel more like your home, however temporarily.

5 places you should always clean when moving into a rental

Cleaning is one of the easiest tricks to making a rental feel more like home. It helps to refresh musty odors and remove dirt so you feel more comfortable in the space.

Much like cleaning a new home before moving in, it is a good idea to give everything a deep clean before you move your stuff in, starting with these five vital places first for peace of mind.

1. Anything made of fabric

This is a big category, but everything made from fabric – be it cleaning upholstery or deep cleaning carpets, is a must when moving into a rental begins Seamus Nally, CEO of TurboTenant.

He explains, ‘Any fabric or fibrous material already in the unit needs close attention. For example, any carpet, curtains, towels, cushion covers, etc. These kinds of items can look clean without actually being clean, so it’s worth the effort to clean them well when you move in.’

If you can, hire a carpet and upholstery cleaning machine that can shampoo soft furnishings and suck the dirt out of them. This is a great way to remove odors from upholstery, too, so you feel more at home lounging on existing sofas or carpets. If you can’t hire a machine, the best steam cleaner is a more affordable and easy-to-store option that will help to kill bacteria in your property. There are over 20 things you can clean with a steamer, so it is a great investment.

2. Deep clean the bathroom

Carolina Kazimierski, co-owner and president of Sophia’s Cleaning Service says, ‘Personally, I always recommend cleaning a bathroom once you move in, even if it's been cleaned after a past tenant.

‘I'm picky about bathroom cleanliness and hygiene, so I like to make sure things are up to my standards versus trusting someone else's in an area with as much bacteria potential as a bathroom.

‘I'd also recommend cleaning out any out-of-the-way areas like cleaning fan blades, hard-to-reach cabinets, etc. You'll likely find some built-up dust or grime here, too.’

3. The kitchen

Katie Lambert, cleaning expert and owner of Clean Queen House Cleaning adds, ‘After the bathroom, the kitchen’s another area to focus on because you will, eventually, have to stop ordering takeout for every meal.’

When cleaning a kitchen, work from top to bottom, starting with the tops of wall cabinets, then any shelves and cleaning range hoods, before cleaning the counters, lower cabinets, and cleaning the kitchen sink (not forgetting to clean the kitchen sink drain), and finishing with the floors. This ensures that any dust or dirt you knock down doesn't land on a freshly cleaned surface, reducing duplicate efforts.

Katie adds that you should also pay attention to the doorframes, handles, and light switches to fully sanitize the space. If you bought a steam cleaner to sanitize your soft furnishings, now is a great time to clean an oven without chemicals, too.

4. Baseboards

It might not seem like an important spot, but baseboards are a magnet for dust, hair, and grease – all of which can contribute to musty odors. Cleaning baseboards is a quick, low-effort way to instantly refresh your new home.

Seamus Nally of TurboTenant suggests, ‘Something else to clean well is all of your baseboards. Baseboards are a commonly neglected area to clean for lots of people, and it’s easier to clean them before you’ve moved in all of your furniture.’

5. The closet

Justin Carpenter, cleaning expert and owner of Jacksonville Maids says, ‘One place many people overlook when moving into a rental is cleaning a clothes closet.

‘Closets are often neglected, yet they can harbor a variety of contaminants. From dust and mold to allergens and bacteria, the closet tends to accumulate dirt and germs that can affect your health and comfort. Be sure to clean this area thoroughly to ensure a fresh and healthy living space.’

Always clean and vacuum the closet space before unpacking your clothes and working out your closet organization ideas, using scented cleaning products such as Method’s French Lavender Multi-Purpose Spray, from Walmart, to remove musty odors and keep laundry smelling nice beyond laundry day.

Moving home is one of the most stressful times of anyone’s life – even when moving between rentals. To make it easier, Katie Lambert, a cleaning expert, suggests making a pre-moving cleaning checklist before the move itself to help you keep track and avoid cleaning when you feel overwhelmed.

She says, ‘Your move-in checklist is your detailed record of what needs cleaning vs. what’s been cleaned. The idea is to cross everything on the list to ensure all corners of your home have been wiped clean and ready for occupancy. You can use this comprehensive move-in checklist to get started. Alternatively, you can personalize your approach by creating a to-clean list under each room.’

I love the act of cleaning. Once I've popped a podcast on and dug out all of my cleaning essentials, I find sprucing up my space to be a therapeutic and meditative process.

That being said, when time isn’t on my side, my daily cleaning habits for a tidier home can start to unravel, with quick tasks, like wiping down my kitchen countertop and sanitizing high-touch surfaces, like handles, falling further (and further) down my to-do list.

But that’s where Zoflora’s Linen Fresh Disinfectant quickly rises to the occasion and makes every room in my home smell like freshly washed sheets. From my bathroom to my kitchen, here I detail where I use this do-it-all disinfectant, how I use it and why it's changed my cleaning game for good.

How I use Zoflora's Disinfectant to clean my home and make it smell great

One quick look at the grocery store shelves will show you there isn't a shortage of cleaning product that promise and deliver on transforming grubby areas of your home from scruffy to sparkling.

For example, the luxury-smelling Method cleaners can help you cut through grease and grime easily, while Lysol's All Purpose Cleaner, available from Amazon, can eliminate viruses and bacteria in minutes.

However, finding a multi-purpose product that ticks all the boxes and more, like sanitizing your countertops when you're cleaning your kitchen, to making your handles shine, is, in my opinion, few and far between.

But that's what makes Zoflora’s easy-to-use and multi-functional concentrated disinfectant stands out from the rest of the cleaning crowd for me. Able to kill 99.9% of bacteria, Zoflora's Linen Fresh disinfectant can be used to spray down kitchen countertops, wipe along hard surfaces and mop your floors.

Then, once you're done cleaning, you can soak all your sponges, mop heads and cloths in the product to help you keep your cleaning supplies clean.

And, thanks to its Linen Fresh aroma, this handy cleaning hero can also banish bad kitchen smells and other unwanted home aromas, leaving behind a space that smells of cotton, lavender and violet all day. It's not just a gimmick either, I swear by this cult classic cleaning product and stock up whenever I find it as it often sells out for good reason.

How I use Zoflora Disinfectant to clean my home

Due to the fact it’s concentrated, you'll need to dilute Zoflora Disinfectant to make it safe to use around the home. I don't mind this as it makes it go much further. To do so, I make up my own cleaning spray using Zoflora Disinfectant and water.

My diluted Zoflora disinfectant lives in an old green spray bottle I had lying around. You could use these sturdy and reusable 500ml Amber Empty Glass Spray Bottles for Cleaning from Amazon, which are more aesthetically pleasing.

A little goes a long way with Zoflora so to concoct my cleaning spray, I pour a capful of Zoflora into a bottle, so around 10ml, and add 400ml of water. Simple!

What I use it for

1. To wipe down my kitchen countertops

It would probably be easier (and quicker) for me to list the things I don't use my trusty Zoflora Disinfectant for. But its number one purpose around my home is for wiping down kitchen countertops in a flash.

Both my partner and I work from home 75% of the week. This means we’re using our kitchen to make six breakfasts, lunches and dinners a day. Along with multiple cups of tea and coffee.

More often than not, rogue food spillages occur as we juggle quick lunches and get back to work tasks, and I find myself clearing up coffee mug stains at the end of the day.

In just a couple of zaps, my Zoflora disinfectant spray helps rid these stains and it has become a daily thing I do to help keep kitchen counters clear.

2. In my bathroom

I love a fresh-smelling home. And when cleaning a bathroom, my stance on this is no different. So what if I told you, you could make your bathroom smell of freshly laundered clothes?

This is just another reason why I swear by Zoflora. After I’ve cleaned my bathroom sink and toilet, I tend to spray some of the disinfectant over my silver faucets and use a cloth, like this five-star-rated Scotch Brite 3-in-1 microfiber cleaning cloth from Target, to create a beautiful shine.

I also tend to pour a capful of the do-it-all disinfectant down my toilets too, along with one-to-two capfuls of the stuff on my toilet brush to help rid bacteria. The fresh smell is unbeatable!

3. To wipe down handles

One of the best cleaning tips I’ve ever learned is to pop some Zoflora disinfectant spray on a microfiber cloth and wipe down my handles.

I do this on my front external door and my internal doors and not only does it add some sanitary shine to your silverware, but it will be the first thing you (or your guests) smell when they enter your home. Result!

My verdict

I know Zoflora's Linen Fresh Disinfectant product won’t be right for every home. Especially in those who are trying to use more natural cleaning solutions, like those who prefer to clean with vinegar or to clean with lemon juice.

But once decanted and diluted into a spray bottle, I think my Zoflora disinfectant spray is one of the best DIY cleaning solutions I put to good use.

I love the fact it can be used for most surfaces and spaces and leave a super-clean smell in its path for up to 24 hours.

When time is lacking, my Zoflora spray means I can still live, eat and work in a space that's clean and welcoming. Which does wonders for my productivity and mental clarity. It's a massive 'yes' from me.

Searching for more cult cleaning products? Discover why we love the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster and why it's changed one writer's life for the better. And, if you're trying to avoid cleaning products that are a waste of money, check out the things you should stop buying and what goods you should be getting instead.

When it comes to cleaning, there really is an abundance of tips, tricks and hacks to speed up the process and make your life easier. But, some might just be myths and getting in your way for no good reason.

From bleach and vinegar myths, dishwashers cleaning themselves and feather dusters being good for cleaning, our cleaning pro, who have spent decades cleaning all sorts of dirt, dust and debris, debunks them for good.

Here, we spoke to a cleaning pro for his cleaning tips on what's fact and what's fiction – so you'll know what to believe and turbocharge your chores.

Cleaning myths debunked

1. Bleach kills everything

Bleach – the stalwart of any reputable cleaning cabinet. From cleaning toilets to killing mold, it really does it all. Or does it?

Joshua Houston, cleaning expert at Household Quotes advises, 'It's widely believed that bleach will eliminate all germs, however this isn't true. Bleach is an extremely strong disinfectant, but some germs are resistant to it.

'This means germs will build up again, so regular cleaning is required. Using it continuously can also damage areas of your home, particularly metals, and, when not used correctly, it can irritate your skin.'

So, next time you reach for the harsher chemicals in your essential cleaning supplies, make sure you're clued up on which items to never clean with bleach, and have adequate protection, like wearing gloves such as the Playtex Handsaver Gloves available at Walmart.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

2. Dishwashers clean themselves

It's a myth! Unfortunately, dishwashers do not clean themselves, making it vital to know how to clean a dishwasher. Not only is it essential to keep yours running efficiently, it also ensures your dishes and cutlery are sanitized and hygienic.

Cleaning expert Houston explains, 'Due to the fact that dishwashers are used to clean plates and cutlery, many believe that they clean themselves. But, over time bacteria will build up, which will cause your dishwasher to smell, and any grime left will harden and prove difficult to remove.'

It may also clog up the bottom of your dishwasher, or stop the flow of water needed to clean the items in the dishwasher.

Houston advises, 'Run a regular cycle with dishwasher cleaner (such as Affresh W10549851 Dishwasher Cleaner available at Walmart) to remove build-ups and odors.'

If you're wondering how often you should clean your dishwasher, at least every three months is a good rule of thumb to follow, to get rid of any unpleasant dishwasher smells. And, don't forget to clean the dishwasher filter, too.

3. Vinegar is a miracle cleaner

While there are many things to clean with vinegar, it can't be used on everything.

Cleaning expert Houston says, 'Many people seem to believe that vinegar is an all-purpose cleaner that can get rid of anything. Vinegar can be useful, but it can also damage surfaces and furniture in your home due to its strong acidity.'

Natural, porous materials such as countertops and furniture made of wood, iron, granite, marble and other stone are the ones to avoid as a rule of thumb. Don't use it on chrome or stainless steel either, as it can knock the shine off for good.

Delve further into our dedicated guide on what not to clean with vinegar for more information. You can instead use a specialized cleaner, such as Granite Gold Daily Cleaner available at Amazon. For an eco-friendly alternative, essential oil is brilliant for cleaning stainless steel, leaving a streak-free finish.

4. Feather dusters help clean

According to cleaning expert Houston, relying on a feather duster is a dusting mistake to avoid.

He says, 'Feather dusters are seen as one of the best ways to get rid of dust from your home. But, actually all they do is move the dust problem to somewhere else, instead of capturing and removing it.'

Instead, use electrostatic dusters, like microfiber cloths, for a more effective solution. We recommend the MR.SIGA Microfiber Cleaning Cloths available at Walmart, as they are absorbent, lint-free and reusable.

Houston continues, 'Electrostatic dusters are a better alternative, as they use static electricity to attract the dust particles. This works as the dust and the duster have opposite charges. It’s a very efficient, inexpensive way to ensure dust is removed from your home.'

You might also like to try making your own homemade cleaning spray, which Zara Stacey, managing editor here at Homes & Gardens swears by to repel dust and stop it settling, or use the damp duster, which Solved content editor Chiana Dickson loves.

5. More cleaning products means a cleaner home

Finally, Houston warns against falling into the trap that more cleaning products will result in a cleaner home. Sometimes, less is more.

He says, 'It's common for cleaning creators to clean one area of their home with multiple cleaning products. But, this can be dangerous as the mix of chemicals could create something that is toxic to breathe in,' which is why there are cleaning products you should never mix.

'Also, there's often little benefit of using multiple chemicals on one surface, as one product should be able to do the job,' he continues. 'Instead, use multi-surface cleaners, which are versatile, and safe to use.'

I love the Method cleaning products, and recommend the Method All-Purpose Cleaner Spray available at Amazon. It's cruelty-free, plant-based, biodegradable, and smells amazing too.

'Cleaning is an essential part of our everyday lives, so it’s important that we can identify any myths or misconceptions,' says cleaning expert Houston. 'So, take these debunked myths into account during your next cleaning session.'

Next, learn about which decluttering myths to avoid.

Even though I genuinely do keep on top of my bathroom cleaning routine, there's one thing that always seems to keep coming back – hard water stains.

These bothersome marks are caused by mineral deposits left behind when water evaporates, meaning they will just keep returning to your shower, sink and faucets unless you soften your water at the source, with an often-expensive filtration system.

While I usually remove water marks successfully with a good clean, when I saw this cleaning tip involving the humble toothpaste, I was so intrigued I had to try it.

How to clean hard water stains on faucets with toothpaste

So, why does toothpaste work? Much like when I recently tried cleaning my mirror with shaving foam, toothpaste is a gentle cleaning product containing abrasives and surfactants, which work to polish teeth, and therefore can do the same for your faucets.

Make sure you go for toothpaste which contains fluoride, as this is the miracle component which effectively reacts with the magnesium and salt in hard water stains, breaking them down and banishing them completely.

This trick can also be used on porcelain, glass, and stone surfaces, and proved to be a great addition to my 15 minute bathroom cleaning and organizing routine. You might think you need specific cleaners for specific surfaces but think again – that's a cleaning rule you can actually break, and the success of this hack proves it!

What you will need

If you're as interested in trying this as I was, all you need is:

• Toothpaste: any you already have at home will work, or purchase an affordable, regular option, such as the Colgate Cavity Protection Regular Fluoride Toothpaste available at Amazon for your cleaning supplies.
• A cleaning cloth: I used a J-cloth, such as the Clorox Handi Wipes Multi-Use Reusable Cloths available at Amazon.

How to clean hard water stains with toothpaste

Step 1: Apply

First things first, to clean a faucet head or clean chrome faucets with toothpaste, you will need to apply it.

I squeezed some out onto my fingers, mixed it with a little water to loosen it up, and spread it on the faucet with my hand. As I was only tackling my taps, this was easy enough, but for larger areas, I recommend using a microfiber cloth to do so, such as the HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloth available at Amazon.

Step 2: Wait for five minutes

Then, I waited approximately five minutes, allowing the toothpaste to work its magic. This is a great opportunity to get other tasks done.

Task stacking will help you clean a bathroom in 30 minutes or less, such as using a damp duster like the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster available at Amazon, to quickly dust baseboards in a while I waited.

Step 3: Rinse

After around five minutes it was time for the grand reveal and, to be honest, I was feeling a bit skeptical.

But, I was genuinely amazed by the results – after I used my cloth and some water to wipe my faucets they were shining, sparkling and spotless, all in less than 10 minutes.

Step 4. Buff dry

I then buffed my taps dry with a soft towel, and stood back to admire my handy work.

My verdict

While I'll still be reaching for my Lysol Power Foaming Cleaning Spray for Bathrooms (available at Amazon) for cleaning larger areas, this is a great trick to speedily touch up taps, particularly if you need to clean a house fast.

Most importantly, unlike when I cleaned my shower with a potato, this hack actually works – and I love the results.

FAQs

What dissolves hard water stains?

There are plenty of other DIY solutions to dissolve a hard water stain, such as cleaning with vinegar or baking soda.

Simply mix up a paste of one part baking soda to two parts vinegar and apply liberally to affected areas, before letting it sit for 30 minutes. Then, rinse off – ideal for removing years of built-up hard water stains, or quickly brightening your bathroom.

Does The Pink Stuff remove hard water stains?

While there are many things you can clean with The Pink Stuff, it is not recommended for use on hard water stains.

This is because it is an alkaline cleaner, and acidic-based products, such as Lime-A-Way Bathroom Cleaner available at Amazon will work more effectively.

For a natural alternative to an acidic cleaner, why not try cleaning with lemon juice?

One of our editors tried cleaning stubborn faucet limescale with lemon juice, and it was so amazingly effective, they ditched shop-bought solutions for good.

The humble cup of tea solves many of life’s problems. The cold nights? Tick. The even colder mornings? Sure. And now, after trying out the tea bag cleaning hack for air fryers myself, I can confirm tea can even help you clean your air fryer.

Whilst handy air fryers cut down cooking times, lower energy usage, and make meals deliciously crispy, it need a good bit of elbow grease to clean the grease away after.

Learning how to clean an air fryer will keep your appliance in good condition so I was invested from the get-go with this hack, and hoped it would help cut through the grease with ease. Spoiler alert: it did, but that’s not to say I’ll be using this cleaning hack again as it was messy.

What is the air fryer tea bag cleaning hack?

Knowing how to clean kitchen grease can be a long and difficult endeavor. Therefore, I had major doubts over the legitimacy of this cleaning hack. Tea? To clean grease? Surely not! But after popping a used tea bag into my dirty air fryer basket and following the steps listed below, the grease disappeared before my eyes.

However, it did come with a 30-minute delay I could have done without, and the tea bag split when scrubbing.

If you are a fan of DIY cleaning solutions, and more patient than me, it's worth trying this tea bag air fryer cleaning hack.

You'll need to:

1. Pop a damp tea bag into the dirty air fryer basket and fill with boiling hot water. You can use whatever bags you have in the house, but if you don't usually stock tea, Twinings English Breakfast Black Tea is top-rated by happy customers for making a great cup of tea so you can enjoy a sip while you wait for the grease to be cut through.
2. Leave the tea bag to sit in the boiling hot water for 30 minutes, then pour out the water, saving the bag.
3. Wipe the tea bag around the basket and rinse it out. It really is that simple.

Tea, in all its guises, has been used domestically for years to help complete a range of household tasks.

For example, did you know that using tea leaves in the garden can help boost your plants’ health? Or that cleaning with tea tree oil can provide you with an all-natural solution to creating a clean and fresh-smelling home?

And now, as I learned for myself, a tea bag can work wonders at making grease disappear.

Everything I learned after trying out the air fryer tea bag cleaning hack

1. It works – but has its limits

I was pleased to find this hacked worked, cutting through the grease in my air fryer. Karina Toner, operations manager at Washington-based Spekless Cleaning, explains, ‘The tea bag cleaning hack can work due to the tannins found in tea. Tannins have natural degreasing properties, which can help break down grease, making it easier to remove.’

However, it is worth noting I tried this hack out on a relatively small amount of grease. So, as Toner notes, ‘While it works for light grease and general upkeep, it may not be strong enough for heavy build-up or deeply embedded grime.’

Instead, Toner recommends cleaning with baking soda to tackle dried grease from an air fryer basket. She says, 'For stubborn spots, mix baking soda with water to form a paste and apply it to the area. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then scrub gently.'

Or, if you're keen to learn how to make your air fryer last longer, investing in some air fryer accessories, like liners, is a good place to start.

2. You need to be gentle with the tea bag

I learned the hard way. With this cleaning hack, you’re essentially using a tea bag as you would a sponge – to help you clear up the grease and get rid of the dirt.

At first, I took this literally and ended up splitting the tea bag in my greasy air fryer basket, creating even more mess than there was to begin with. Definitely an air fryer cleaning mistake to avoid.

‘Tea bags can easily tear, especially after being soaked,’ Toner highlights. ‘If they break apart, the tea leaves may scatter throughout the basket, requiring additional cleaning.’ And that it did. This also occurred when testing teabag bathroom cleaning, too.

Using a zero scratch, strong Scotch Brite sponge from Walmart would have been easier.

3. You need to wash (and re-wash)

Now, as a lover of tea, I could drink the good stuff from morning, noon and night. But, after saving up and investing in one of the best air fryers, what I don’t want is my nifty kitchen appliance smelling of tea.

'Depending on the strength of the tea used, a faint tea aroma may linger in the air fryer for a short time, though it typically dissipates after use,’ Toner says.

So if you do intend to try this out, try washing and rewashing your air fryer basket.

My verdict

There is no denying that this ​​cleaning hack works. I’ve seen the results for myself. But personally speaking, I’ll be putting my tea bags to better use by making a cup of tea to drink rather than using them to help me clean my air fryer.

I want to look after my air fryer, you see. That's why I don't put my air fryer basket in the dishwasher and stay away from things you should never put in an air fryer.

While tea bags won't damage my air fryer, for me, the threat of them ripping outweighs the act of cleaning the basket the old-fashioned way – with a good old sponge and some simple washing-up liquid such as Dawn, available from Amazon.

Plus, I'd rather wash up my air fryer basket straight away than let it sit for 30 minutes in the hot water so the tannins can work their magic. After cooking, it's tempting enough to leave washing up until the day after – and this hack just gives me another excuse to do so!

Wondering can you use vinegar to clean grease from an air fryer? Or what common air fryer mistakes you should avoid? Discover the top tips on how to clean this kitchen staple according to experts.

As an H&G solved editor, I spend a good portion of my time testing new cleaning hacks and writing and reading about all the ways you can clean and organize a home. As a result, when it comes to actually keeping on top of my own space, I often have the next-to-no motivation. So, I have decided to be tidy, and not clean.

Following in the footsteps of home guru and content creator Audrey Barton (@organizedchaos4 on TikTok), I decided to stop chasing perfection and prioritize tasks and cleaning tips that allow me more free time. That is not to say that my home is in any way drowning in dirt. I still keep all the important areas clean and sanitary, but when exploring how to clean when feeling overwhelmed, I now find myself skipping a few certain tasks.

Here, I break down what it means to me to be tidy, not clean, and why finding this careful balance is the only way I can enjoy a chore-free weekend.

How I find the right cleaning balance in my home

Audrey’s advice that ‘we just need to make peace with the fact that we can only do what we can do’ is the best cleaning hack I have listened to thus far.

Given the nature of my work, I felt the need to keep my home constantly spotless. However, there came a point where I was tired and my partner was close to losing his mind over me dusting the tops of doors and insisting the kitchen grout needed to be scrubbed every single weekend.

As a result, I gave up on trying to do it all and focused on the most important dirty spots. If you're looking for ways to change up your cleaning routine, this advice might just be for you.

1. I never clean spots I can’t see

While there is some merit to cleaning the dust off of door frames and pulling the sofa out to clean baseboards, they are not tasks that will make or break my home. Because of this, I now only address the spots once a year at most – and that is only if I have the energy to spring clean without getting overwhelmed.

The reality is we do not suffer from a dust allergy and we cannot see these spots, which means the time spent cleaning them does very little in the immediate future. The same goes for cleaning window tracks or cleaning behind the fridge. I get to them eventually, but they are not tasks at the forefront of my mind – and that’s okay.

2. I always clean high touchpoints

While I omit a lot from my weekly cleaning task list, I will always practice target hygiene. When I first started cutting back on my cleaning details, I made a mental list of tasks I still thought of as essential and added them into my daily planner, still following an abridged version of the different day, different room housekeeping schedule. Splitting chores with a partner also helps to take the load off.

This means cleaning bathrooms, cleaning the kitchen, and changing bed sheets is always done routinely. Just because I don’t make cleaning my number one priority does not mean I allow my house to fall into disrepair. As Audrey says in her TikTok, ‘My house may not be clean, but my toilets definitely are.’

3. I stay on top of decluttering and tidying

While I have cut back on my cleaning, I still cannot abide by an untidy home. I still stick to expert decluttering tips and perform my evening closing shift routines to keep the mess hidden away and clutter to a minimum. Clearing the coffee table, fluffing the sofa, and folding away blankets are all micro-resets which help to reduce visual clutter and mess and make my home look cleaner – even without the need to dust and polish every surface. It is a great way to fake clean a house to boost your mood and prepare for guests.

4. I only vacuum when the carpet needs it

How often you should vacuum is a complex question – and one I decided to take all stress out of. Rather than trying to stick to a strict schedule for cleaning carpets, I've decided to simply whip out my best vacuum cleaner whenever the carpets need it.

Sticking to a bi-weekly schedule simply didn't work when there was fluff and lint building up on my white area rug, or we came in mid-week with muddy or dusty boots. Now, the vacuum lives in the corner of my entryway so I can run around the troubled areas as and when it's needed and not a moment sooner. It saves me so much wasted time each week and actually keeps my home looking cleaner than before.

5. I came to peace with dust

There are so many ways to prevent dust on furniture and remove dust properly, but they all require near-constant effort. I was trying to dust my home two or three times a week just to stay on top of it all before I finally decided that it wasn’t actually that big of a deal when I was busy, tired, or stressed.

Now I dust whenever I feel like it, especially since discovering my love for the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster which makes a task I previously dreaded one I now (almost) enjoy. Yes, I occasionally catch the dust on my media unit when I walk past, but cutting down on this small task has created more free time to spend actually using the games and media consoles in there, and I am much more relaxed in my free time.

Cutting back on the tiny tasks that add up and building up smart habits to spend less time cleaning has completely changed how I spend my free time, and it makes my job less monotonous too.

Why not try a German sweeping week for cleaning shared spaces?

I live in a hard-water area meaning limescale stains and build up is a never-ending battle. The mineral deposits left residue around our faucets, especially in the kitchen, and I struggled to get the tougher ones off – until I called on Mother Nature.

Using lemon juice and water to make a 1:1 cleaning spray, I tested this cheap and natural cleaning solution on the most stubborn limescale marks in my home: the kitchen faucet and base.

This natural way to clean a kitchen worked a charm, beating the effectiveness of much harsher and pungent chemical cleaners I've tried. I'll never use anything but lemon again! Here's how it went, and how long I had to leave it on to work its magic.

What you'll need to remove limescale from faucets

First, here's what you need when using lemon to remove limescale from your faucet at home:

• One lemon. I used half a large lemon's juice, which came out to 0.8 fluid oz (25ml), though I didn't squeeze it all out. You'll find lemons in your usual grocery store.
• Knife. Using a sharp paring knife. This stainless steel set of four paring knives from QVC will last well and can be easily sharpened.
• Sponge. Do not use steel sponges on stainless steel. I used my heavy-duty Scotch Brite sponge, available on Amazon.
• Tap water. I matched my lemon juice volume to make a 1:1 ratio spray, so I used 0.8 fluid oz (25ml). You might find a small measuring cup handy, though you will be able to eyeball it too if you don't have one.
• Spray bottle. I keep a set of amber spray bottles from Amazon at home to make my own cleaning solutions regularly.
• Optional. Lemon squeezers are available at Amazon. These come in handy all-year round for cleaning and making fresh juice drinks.

How to remove stubborn limescale from faucets with lemon

Once you've gathered the things you need, make your faucet lime-scale busting lemon mixture. Here's what to do:

1. Cut your lemon in half and squeeze the juice into your amber glass bottle or your measuring cup.
2. Match the volume with the same amount of tap water.
3. Spray it on the limescale on your faucet.
4. If it's a superficial amount of limescale, wipe after two minutes. If it's flaky, wipe after 10. If deeper or stubborn leave for 30 minutes. If your faucet or sink area is stainless steel or chrome, do not leave it longer than 30 minutes as the citric acid can strip the shine.
5. Scrub with your sponge.
6. Rinse thoroughly.

How it went when I tested this in my home

Karina Toner, operations manager and professions cleaner with Spekless, explains, 'Using a 1:1 lemon and water mixture is perfect for cleaning chrome fixtures. The citric acid in lemons breaks down the calcium and magnesium found in hard water stains, making it really effective in removing limescale and mineral deposits.

'When diluted with water, the solution becomes less abrasive, so it’s safer for chrome while still being tough on grime. Chrome itself is a relatively soft metal, you’ll want to avoid anything too harsh so it doesn't become damaged or pitted over time.'

I tested the effectiveness of my lemon homemade cleaning spray at intervals of 2, 10 and 30 minutes as I wanted to see how long I had to leave it on for it to work. Each time, I tested by scrubbing the area with a sponge, then rinsed away the loose limescale and re-sprayed the area.

• At 2 minutes: There was an immediate lift of all superficial limescale.
• At 10 mins: Chunks of limescale wedged between the faucet and cold tap flaked off.
• At 30 mins: With some muscle power from my husband, the stubborn ring around the base of the faucet came off. Karina recommends the Rubber Maid Power Scrubber if you lack hand grip strength like me.

My verdict

Next time, I'll happily and confidently leave the mixture on for 30 minutes. This time, I give this method an 8/10 for effectiveness. I can see how, if used in my daily cleaning habits, this faucet limescale removal hack with lemon would easily tackle that build up.

Karina Toner, operations manager and professional cleaner with Spekless, says, 'I love that you went the DIY route here! You’d be surprised how many kitchen staples can turn into effective cleaners, and you’ve absolutely nailed it with this one.'

On tougher built-up limescale like mine, it took some muscle power and hand strength to shift: enter my husband, as I have chronic pain and my hands lack the strength needed for this sort of grip and scrubbing.

Karina recommends the OXO Grips Clean Brush from Amazon. She says, 'This set includes two brushes – a large one for broader surfaces and a smaller, more precise brush for detailed areas.'

I could certainly have done with a smaller brush for the tighter area at the back of my faucet today. These brushes are also great for cleaning brushed nickel faucets.

Karina adds, 'The lemon and water mixture is effective enough in breaking down limescale and grime, but using a brush allows you to scrub the solution into tiny grooves or around the base of faucets where buildup tends to accumulate. The brushes are firm enough to dislodge tough deposits without scratching the surface of chrome fixtures.

However, I will add that the level of scrubbing needed during my testing is more a reflection of my neglect in this area of my kitchen, and in my view, not a reflection of how effective the naturally-occurring citric acid in lemon is for limescale removal.

Karina adds, 'Leaving it on for 30 minutes is just perfect because this allows the citric acid enough time to fully penetrate and dissolve the limescale. For tougher buildups, the acid needs to "soften" the grime so that when you scrub, you're not risking scratches on the surface. If you try scrubbing too early, you might end up putting in more effort than needed as well. Overall, it looks like you’ve got the process down perfectly.'

It's worth noting, whilst I was waiting for the lemon to do its magic, I sprayed my mixture around my stainless steel sink and the outside of my sage green kettle and it banished the limescale and shined them up brilliantly without any scrubbing. You can also use lemon halves for kettle descaling inside, too.

I always heard that cleaning with lemon brings great results and now I really can see why. It’s cheap, effective and I will definitely use it more in my household cleaning.

Next, learn what happens when you add lemons to your dishwasher, and the many things you can clean with baking soda around the home.

Granite is a hardy countertop choice for kitchens and bathrooms, but their porous nature means they are prone to hard water stains and mineral build-up. But how do you clean hard water stains off granite?

Professional cleaners urge caution when dealing with tough stains on stone surfaces. While it can be tempting to go in with tough cleaners for hard deposits, using too heavy a hand can damage the worktop and leave permanent scratches.

These are the six steps to clean granite countertops that will remove all traces of hard water without damaging the stone beneath.

How to get hard water stains off granite

As with removing any stains from countertops, it is essential to remove hard water stains as soon as you spot them to prevent them from building up into a bigger, more challenging problem, begins Elizabeth Shields, operations manager at Super Cleaning Service, Louisville.

‘Granite is naturally porous and if it’s not sealed well, water seeps in, minerals get left behind, forming those annoying white stains. It’s inevitable for kitchen countertops to get wet but if you keep it dry after use, you can help prevent the buildup. If you leave the water sitting, that’s when the stains really start to show. The longer you let water sit, the more it evaporates, leaving those mineral deposits behind.’

1. Remove crumbs and loose debris

When cleaning a kitchen or bathroom, start by removing any loose debris to avoid scratching the stone countertop.

Ryan Knoll, cleaning expert and owner of Tidy Casa says, ‘When cleaning granite countertops the first thing you want to do is wipe down the surface with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any crumbs or debris from the countertop.

'Next, using warm soapy water, (use a mild dish soap like Dawn), and a soft sponge or rag, wipe down the surface of the stone. This will remove any debris and dirt that is stuck onto the countertop.’

Prices correct at time of publication.

2. Use a soft sponge or cloth

A common cleaning myth that will damage your countertops is you should use abrasive cleaners to remove tough marks.

Instead, Ryan Knoll, a cleaning expert suggests, ‘Always using a soft sponge or cloth, such as microfiber cloths, at Walmart, to clean granite. Do not put a lot of elbow grease into scrubbing the granite as this may cause scratches in the stone. Instead, gently scrub the surface in small circular motions to avoid damaging the stone.'

3. Stick with baking soda and vinegar

One of the best ways to get rid of hard water stains is by cleaning with vinegar and cleaning with baking soda.

Ryan Knoll, cleaning expert, continues, ‘Do not use harsh chemicals to clean granite countertops. Instead, use baking soda, such as Arm & Hammer baking soda, at Walmart, and water or white vinegar to create a thick paste mixture that you will apply to the granite.’

The amount you mix will depend on the size of the area you need to clean. Add the vinegar or water to the baking soda bit by bit until the mixture reaches a spreadable consistency.

Apply the mixture over the stains using an old, clean toothbrush, and allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes, or leave overnight before wiping away with a soft microfiber cloth, dampened with warm water.

4. Use a commercial cleaner for tougher build-up

If the hard water stains persist, you might need to use a commercial cleaner, such as cleaning with Bar Keepers Friend.

Elizabeth Shields, a cleaning expert, suggests, ‘Sprinkling Bar Keepers Friend, from Walmart, over the area in an even layer and scrubbing with some elbow grease and a soft, damp cloth. It works, but it’s a bit more intense and can be a little more effort to get results.’

She adds, ‘I recently switched to using Scrub Daddy PowerPaste. Splash the granite with a bit of water, get a paste from the tub using a ScrubMommy (when I bought the tub, it came with the sponge), and scrub. Simply rinse and dry with a paper towel after.’

5. Scrape thick build-up away

When cleaning stone floors and countertops, you want to avoid anything that could scratch the surface. If scrubbing hard build-up with clothes has not worked, then you might need to try a surface scraper, says Ken Doty, COO and cleaning expert at The Maids.

‘Take care of any resistant hard water stains and build up with a single-edge razor. Carefully scrape the residue while it's still damp, and brush the particles into your trash or dustbin.’

Given the increased chance of damage, it is best to leave this method as a backup only.

6. Dry thoroughly

With the hard water stains removed, you should then dry the granite worktop with a towel immediately. Leaving water to sit on the counter for prolonged periods of time can lead to watermarks and hard water stains, undoing all of your hard work.

Ken Doty, cleaning expert concludes, ‘Once your countertop has been thoroughly cleaned, seal it if you are able. After sealing the area, you can polish the surface every few weeks to form a protective layer that is adept at repelling hard water.’

Next, learn how to remove water stains from wood or glass.

Cleaning a kitchen regularly prevents mold and food contamination. Because of this, most of us are strict about wiping down our counters, stoves, and cutting boards to prevent cross contamination of germs, but what about our sinks?

Given that we regularly use soap in our sinks and don’t use them to cut and prepare food, it might not seem like too big of a deal to put off cleaning a kitchen sink. However, cleaners are warning neglecting this space could be the biggest causes of illness at home as they are dirtier than toilets.

Here, they reveal how often you should clean a kitchen sink to keep it hygienic and reduce the risk of stomach upsets.

How often should you clean a kitchen sink?

While you should think about cleaning a kitchen about once per week, Taylor Riley, cleaning expert and founder of Boom. Facility Service Advisors suggest your sink should be cleaned every day to some extent.

Taylor explains, ‘The sink is one of the most used areas in the kitchen, often coming into contact with raw food, dirty dishes, and various contaminants. Because of this, I recommend cleaning your sink daily, even if it's just a quick wipe-down with a sponge or a rinse to remove any lingering food particles. Additionally, deep cleaning with a disinfectant should be done at least once a week to keep it sanitary.’

Failing to clean your kitchen sink often enough can put you at risk of some dangerous illnesses.

Ken Doty, cleaning expert and COO at The Maids reveals, ‘The average kitchen sink has more fecal matter than a flushed toilet. Learning how to clean your sink is critical for a healthy, happy kitchen. Harmful bacteria such as E.coli and salmonella can also be present in a dirty kitchen sink, posing serious health risks to you and your family.’

It is worth noting that cleaning kitchen sinks regularly does more than keep bacteria at bay. Ken Doty, cleaning expert adds that it is also one of the best ways to banish bad kitchen smells, and prevent and get rid of drain flies. ‘While it may be a chore to go the extra mile after doing a large load of dishes, it's the healthy and safe thing to do,’ he urges.

Head of solved at H&G, Punteha van Terheyden, cleans her kitchen sink after every load of dirty dishes has been done or popped into her dishwasher. 'I use dish soap on a clean sponge and wash down the sink, drain, draining board and the area around the sink, including the upstand and faucet. I grew up in a home where stomach bugs never, ever happened and am convinced keeping the sink area clean was a big part of the protective factor, so I do it now in my home, too.'

Punteha also uses a bleach spray in her stainless steel sink  at least twice a week to double-y get rid of any nasties lurking around.

Taylor Riley, a cleaning expert, shares that, ‘To quickly clean your sink, I recommend using a product like Bar Keepers Friend, available at Walmart. Wet the sink, apply the powder, scrub with a sponge [we like the Scrub Daddy sponge, also at Walmart, as it can offer both coarse and gentle abrasion], and then rinse away. This process is quick and ensures your sink is clean and free of smells caused by bacteria or food particles.

‘Another quick tip for garbage disposals is to drop a lemon in the sink and run the disposal with water flowing. The acidity of the lemon not only cleans the disposal but also leaves behind a fresh lemon scent.’

Regular cleaning may sound like a drag, but the results are more than worth the effort. Remember that some sink materials require specific care, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s care instructions before applying any harsh chemicals.

When designing a kitchen, picking one of the best kitchen sink materials will make cleaning and maintenance a lot simpler in the long run.

Citric acid, which is naturally occurring in citrus fruits, has become an increasingly popular all-purpose cleaning ingredient due to its effectiveness and being eco-friendly.

While many traditional cleaners and sprays use the scent of lemons or oranges to freshen surfaces, citric acid, also available in powder form, harnesses powerful cleaning capabilities without the need for harsh chemicals.

From shining your bathroom to deep-cleaning your coffee machine, our professional cleaners reveal six of the uses for this handy cleaning ingredient, and they're a shoe-in for cleaning your house fast.

Six things you can clean with citric acid

1. Bathroom fixtures

Wondering how to clean a bathroom? Due to its natural abrasiveness, citric acid works well for cleaning bathroom fixtures by banishing bacteria and making them shine. We recommend using the Earthborn Elements Citric Acid available at Amazon, as it's food grade and 100% natural.

'As a 30-year veteran in commercial cleaning, I often use citric acid solutions for restroom fixtures like toilets, urinals, sinks, and partitions,' says Austin Jones, CEO of Millennium Facility Services. 'A diluted citric acid solution cuts through soap scum, hard water stains, and disinfects surfaces.'

To make an effective cleaning solution, simply mix one level tablespoon of citric acid per cup of water in a spray bottle. We recommend the Harris Chemically Resistant Professional Spray Bottles from Walmart for this, as they have a fully adjustable nozzle and ounce measurements listed on the bottle, making it easy to measure the correct ratio of water. Then, spray the solution, leave to sit and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.

It's also great for limescale and other stains. Alessandro Gazzo, professional cleaner at Emily's Maids of Dallas says, 'It's great for removing toilet stains as well. Just add citric acid until it sticks to the toilet rim, let sit overnight and scrub the next day with your toilet brush.'

2. Coffee makers and kettles

Coffee makers and kettles are notoriously difficult to clean: they're quick to build-up with limescale and difficult to keep stain-free and smelling fresh.

'One of the best uses for citric acid is getting rid of limescale in coffee makers or kettles,' says Daniel Brown, cleaning expert and CEO of Handy Cleaners. 'Simply mix one tablespoonful of citric acid with one liter (about two pints) of water, run through the appliance and then rinse very well. Not only does this remove build-up but it also makes coffee taste nicer too because calcium deposits are dissolved by citric acid without any harmful residue being left behind, as can occur when stronger chemical de-scalers are used.'

The bestselling Lemi Shine Coffee Descaler available at Amazon is a great option for cleaning a coffee maker using the power of citric acid to remove tough build up, with a fragrance-free formula.

3. Cutting boards

Cutting boards are one of the most commonly used items in the kitchen, and are usually fine to be cleaned as usual or put in the dishwasher. But, when washing cutting those used for raw meat and fish, sometimes a deeper clean is required to properly care for your cutting board.

'Citric acid is a fantastic cleaning product,' says Alex Varela, general manager of Dallas Maids. 'It's slightly abrasive and a mild deodorizer as well. I like the fact that it's powder so it's perfect to absorb moisture.

'I recommend using citric acid to clean cutting boards and remove odor in general. You can sprinkle some citric acid on a cutting board, let sit for two to three hours, rinse and let dry.'

Making time to do this every couple of weeks will ensure your cutting boards are sanitized and fresh, without the worry of harsh chemicals coming into contact with your food preparation areas.

4. Soap scum on shower doors

'If you would rather not use a commercial soap scum remover, then try spraying some diluted (one part citric acid to three parts water) onto your glass shower screen, leave for five minutes and wipe away – job done!' says Brown. 'It's ability to dissolve soap means that after doing this all sorts of doors will look much cleaner than they have done in ages.'

We also recommend using a squeegee to clean glass shower doors, such as the bestselling OXO Good Grips All-Purpose Squeegee available at Amazon, to wipe off any excess water and avoid water marks. If you squeegee off the tiles and glass every time you shower, before getting out, it will reduce the build-up and result in less frequent deep-cleaning required.

5. Unclog drains

As bath and shower drains commonly clog up with soap and hair, they can become very difficult to unblock and clean, particularly if you don't want to use a harsh chemical cleaner to unclog your shower drain.

'Citric acid solutions are ideal for unclogging drains,' says Jones. 'Pour about half a cup of citric acid down drains followed by boiling water to lift hair clogs and soap build up.'

Doing this monthly as a maintenance task will keep your pipes clear and your drain clean, allowing your shower or bath to drain effectively after use and avoiding blockages occurring.

6. Greasy stoves and ovens

'Citric acid is a key ingredient in many commercial limescale removers and degreasers,' says Salvador Villarreal, owner of VIP Cleaners. 'For tough grease and grime in commercial kitchens, I recommend a solution of citric acid and detergent. Spray it on hoods, stoves and ovens, let sit and wipe clean. The acid breaks down baked-on messes.'

You can enjoy the same results residentially, using a soft sponge, such as the Scrub Daddy FlexTexture Scrubber available at Walmart, is an effective way to clean an oven, removing any stuck-on stains without scratching your surfaces.

FAQs

Is citric acid or vinegar better for descaling?

While both citric acid and vinegar work effectively as natural solutions for de-scaling, the lower pH of citric acid means there won't be any lingering odors, as there can be with the vinegar. It's worth noting once vinegar dries, the smell disappears. If you can't stand the smell when using it, try Originally Yellow's Lavender Scented Cleaning Vinegar from Amazon.

Either can be made into descaling solutions when mixed with water in equal parts.

How do you dilute citric acid for cleaning?

For cleaning, simply mix the anhydrous (powder) citric acid with water. The ratio will depend on what surface you are cleaning.

A 5% solution will be effective to descale and clean surfaces, whereas a 10% increased concentration should be used on any high-bacteria areas, such as a toilet bowl.

'While citric acid is a natural solution, always follow directions and take proper safety precautions,' says Villarreal. 'Wear gloves and ventilate the area. For the best results, test in an inconspicuous area first.'

You can also do your house clean with rubbing alcohol, as an alternative surface sanitizer and cleaner.

As a Solved editor, I spend a lot of time cleaning my home. Whether it is because an expert has just mentioned an area I usually forget or I am testing out a new cleaning method my household chores take up a lot of my time. One task that usually takes longer than the rest, however, is dusting.

Dusting is one of my least favorite tasks. Not only is it everywhere, but it also seems to build up ridiculously quickly meaning it is a task I usually put off, unsatisfied that the results are worth the time and effort. That is, however, until I found Scrub Daddy’s Damp Duster, available at Walmart.

At first, I was skeptical about the true power of this viral sponge, however, after just a few uses I am truly hooked, so much so that I am willing to name it one of the only ways to remove dust properly. But what makes it so great? Well, just about everything.

Why we love the Damp Duster

So far as the best viral decluttering and cleaning hacks go, the Damp Duster is up there with the best, although it certainly took a little bit of getting used to.

Upon opening the package it was quite a shock to feel that it was already ‘damp’, and far from the spongy texture I was expecting. Instead, it almost felt like a strange mix of rubber and foam. Its half-cylinder design with deep grooves was also a far cry from the folded-up microfiber cloths I was used to using.

Without much further thought, I ran it along the edge of my bathtub, trusting in the sponge's promise that it would be ready for use as soon as I opened it. I wasn't expecting much – years of trying to get rid of dust in the bathroom with a microfiber cloth and simply moving it around instead seriously lowered my expectations. However, it picked up every little spec and hair, trapping all of it in those deep grooves. Now that was satisfying.

Better yet, rather than having to shake my cloth out of the window like a madman to remove any dust from the fibers, the Damp Duster just needed a quick rinse with water, a good ring out, and it was ready to go again.

How the Damp Duster works

You might be mistaken for thinking that this is magic – I was certainly tempted to think it was. But no, its efficiency lies in its clever design.

The dampness means the dust is drawn to the sponge, while the deep ridges ensure that it stays there as you move the duster around. This is a huge step up from a microfiber cloth that seems to spread the dust around instead, and even from the effective dry/damp cleaning rule, making it easier to avoid some of the major dusting mistakes making your home dirtier.

If, like me, you are also on a green cleaning kick, then the Damp Duster is a fantastic investment. Given that it only requires water, I could say goodbye to the furniture polish and multi-purpose cleaner I previously needed to assist my cloths. As someone who struggles with allergies, this was a massive plus to me not to mention that it will significantly lower my cleaning bills, helping me to save money at home. Remember that the damp duster only removes dust, and doesn't kill bacteria. I still go back in with my trusty Method Pink Grapefruit Anti-Bacterial Cleaner, from Walmart, once the dust has been removed, but it helps to limit the number of cleaning solutions I have to haul around the house with me.

My verdict

The difference in the amount of dust around my home speaks for itself. The Damp Duster not only makes cleaning dust up easier, but it also helps me to get motivated to clean. As a result, my home has never looked better. It might seem silly, but having a fun little colorful doo-dad is a great way to make cleaning fun.

The design of the duster also means that little to no dust is thrown up into the air – and my air purifier can attest to that. Usually, when dusting around it, it will kick up a notch as it works to filter out the extra particles in the air. With the Damp Duster? It is as quiet as a mouse.

That being said, there are always a few drawbacks. The damp duster does get dirty quickly, and frequent trips to the sink are a must. When dusting a bathroom or cleaning a kitchen, this is pretty simple. However, when trying to clean a bedroom it can get tedious. One solution could be to carry a small tub of water around to help wash the dust off and remove the sponge, but I have yet to try this approach.

It is also worth noting that rinsing the sponge in the sink means you are washing all that dust and hair down your drain. I have a good hair catcher drain cover, from Amazon, to help stop clogs, but it is something you might want to consider if you want to avoid having to unclog a bathroom drain later down the line.

My final gripe is that it is not the best on rougher surfaces such as my wooden plant stand in the bathroom. The rough edges and grooves beat out the ridges on the Duster and cling to the dust. That being said, the results with the Damp Duster are still better than with a microfiber cloth (where lint and threads from the cloth are often left behind as well as all the dust). For smooth surfaces such as my tub, sink, and the top of my fridge, however, it gets a 10/10.

Storing the duster is simple. The first few times, I allowed it to dry out before storing it in my cleaning cabinet but this required soaking it for a few minutes whenever I needed it again. Now, I have taken to cleaning it, writing it out, and storing it in a Ziploc bag to keep it moist so that it is always ready to go whenever I need to panic clean before guests arrive.

One thing to note is that it's important to keep an eye out for signs its time to replace your Damp Duster, which may range from bad odors to mold forming. If you spot any of these, swiftly bin yours and purchase a new one ready for use.

Other Scrub Daddy Favourites

All in all, I would confidently say that the pros of the Damp Duster far outweigh the minimal cons and it is easily one of the essential cleaning tools everyone needs to maintain a spotless home, especially given all the ways you can use a Damp Duster. Given the wide array of colors available, I might even buy more for some pleasing yet practical color-coded cleaning.

Next, discover why your home gets dusty so quickly, and what you can do to limit its impact.

Kitchen cleaning can seem never-ending, especially since we're spending more time at home than ever before.

Here, our panel of top cleaning professionals reveal their checklist for cleaning your kitchen, packed with tips, tricks and advice so you can work out how to freshen yours up with ease – and cut down on the time you spend doing it.

From the shiniest of sinks to fresh-as-a-daisy garbage disposals, we've got cleaning tips to tackle every surface and every corner of your kitchen.

How to clean a kitchen like a pro

Before you start cleaning the kitchen, you'll need to gather some basic tools:

• Microfiber cloths, available in packs at Walmart
• A detail brush set, from Walmart, for small nooks and crannies
• A natural degreaser, such as Attitude's certified non-toxic kitchen cleaner, at Amazon
• An all-purpose cleaner, such as Attitiude's citrus all-purpose spray, from Walmart
• White vinegar, available in large containers at Walmart
• Baking soda, such as Arm & Hammer, from Walmart
• Dish soap, such as Dawn, from Walmart
• Your best vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment

1. Start with cabinets

When cleaning kitchen cabinets, start at the top and work downwards. This way, any dust or debris you brush off will land on surfaces you have yet to clean so you don't have to go back on yourself.

To clean cabinets, Rhonda Wilson, quality lead cleaner at FreshSpace Cleaning says, 'Remove all items including liners before vacuuming it out. Don't forget to also clean the tops of kitchen cabinets if yours do not reach the ceiling.

'I then wipe the shelving down with a damp cloth sprayed with an all-purpose cleaner. Let it dry, put in a new cabinet liner [from Amazon] if using, then return the items.'

You should take this opportunity to declutter your kitchen cabinets at the same time. As you take items out, check expiry dates and get rid of anything past its best. The same goes for things you don't like or never use. Combine or declutter duplicates.

To finish, wipe down the exterior of the cabinet doors and handles to kill bacteria and remove grease build-up. It's one of the dirty spots professional cleaners always notice in homes. For this, you can use Windex as a versatile kitchen degreaser.

2. The dishwasher

If you have one, cleaning a dishwasher should be next on your list.

Rhonda continues, 'Take out all the dishes and racks and clean out the drain area of obvious bits of gunk, removing the filter and rinsing it under the faucet to clear it of grime. You might also need to clean your dishwasher filter with an old toothbrush and some dish soap to remove tough buildup.

'I then like to pop the racks back in and throw an Affresh tablet [from Walmart] in the bottom and run a normal cycle. I like to run another hot cycle afterward just to be sure everything is properly rinsed.'

Cleaning with vinegar is a natural alternative for a fresh dishwasher in a pinch. Place a dishwasher-safe bowl full of white vinegar on the top rack and run through a cycle to clean hard-water deposits and get rid of dishwasher smells for good.

You can also keep it clean by using lemon halves in your dishwasher regularly.

3. The oven

Cleaning an oven is one of the most time-consuming tasks when it comes to cleaning a kitchen, but is vital for banishing bad kitchen smells and preventing a fire hazard.

Our favorite approach is cleaning an oven without chemicals. If you have one, deep clean a kitchen with a steamer, using a brush attachment to melt and scrub away grease from the interior of your oven without the need for cleaners.

Otherwise, cleaning with baking soda and vinegar is an eco-approach that won't risk food contamination.

Mix equal parts white vinegar with baking soda until it forms a paste, then apply it with a cloth, leaving it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before removing it with a sponge. The Scrub Daddy Sponge, from Walmart, is great for this, as it offers a gentle abrasive that won't damage your oven, making cleaning kitchen grease a little easier on your arms.

Don't forget to also clean behind appliances to ward off pests.

4. The stove and range hood

Cleaning a range hood should always come before cleaning a stove so any debris and dust don't stick to the newly cleaned surface below.

The easiest way to clean a range hood is to remove the metal mesh filters and scrub them with a soft-bristled brush in your kitchen sink with hot water and dish soap before leaving to dry completely. While you wait, use an all-purpose cleaner or degreaser and a clean cloth to polish the exterior of the range hood to remove splatter marks.

For stoves, your exact approach will differ depending on if you are cleaning electric stovetops, or cleaning stove burners.

Generally speaking, however, Aminah Vieira, head of marketing and innovation at InspireCleaning Services recommends, 'Removing tough grease from your hob by spraying it with a degreaser, leaving it to work for five minutes, and then wiping it clean with a damp cloth. You may have to do this a few times around the burner heads and control knobs.

'For stove grates, it can help to remove all removable parts and soak them in hot, soapy water while tackling burnt-on spots with a non-scratch scrubber.'

5. The refrigerator and freezer

How to clean a refrigerator? Martha Stewart recommends cleaning with baking soda.

After removing food (and trashing anything that has spoiled) Martha's method is to wash the interior with a mixture of two tablespoons of baking soda per quart of warm water.

She finishes up by placing a cup of baking soda mixed with a few drops of lemon essential oil [available at Amazon] on one of the shelves and leaving it there to get rid of fridge smells. You can also try coffee and salt to deodorize a fridge, finding a use for those old grounds.

It is worth defrosting the freezer while cleaning a kitchen, too. The best option is to empty contents into a cool bag or into the refrigerator to keep them cool, and switch off power right at the start of the day; allow the ice to defrost into trays and bowls, ensuring you empty them regularly and protect the floor beneath them with old towels to avoid spills.

6. The counters

With the bulk of the dirty work out of the way, you can now clean the counters.

To start, declutter countertops, taking absolutely everything off of them to expose any dirty corners full of crumbs. It can be helpful to vacuum away crumbs with the hose attachment on your vacuum first to avoid them going everywhere.

Then, Aminah Vieira says, 'To look after your counters, use a solution of warm water and washing-up liquid with a microfibre cloth, working in small sections [using the 'S' technique for cleaning] and drying immediately to prevent watermarks.

'Caring for natural stone worktops requires special care,' she adds. 'Use a pH-neutral cleaner [such as More Stone & Quartz Cleanser from Amazon] and avoid acidic substances like vinegar or lemon juice, which can damage the surface.'

Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden favors an essential oil cleaning spray she makes herself. She says, 'I add 10-20 drops of essential oil to two cups of water and a tiny squeeze of dish soap, and store in an amber spray bottle, available on Amazon. The bottle is durable and can be used over and over. The spray mix tackles the toughest grime with ease, wicks away any sticky residue and is gentle on surfaces. The dish soap acts as surfactant and this mix works great on everything from laminate, to stainless steel and glass.'

7. The sink

Now you have finished scrubbing smaller items, you can clean the kitchen sink. This is a task you should be doing weekly, especially if you wash dishes by hand. Wiping it down after every use is one of the many things people with clean kitchens always do to keep a kitchen spotless.

Vanessa Bossart, professional cleaner and owner of GreenTerra Cleaning says, 'First, we sprinkle a cream cleanser [like Mrs. Meyers Baking Soda Cream Cleanser, from Amazon] or baking soda around the sink basin to tackle grime and stains. Using a tile brush, we scrub grooves around the drain and faucet bases where dirt often accumulates.

'We then rinse with warm water and dry with a microfiber cloth to avoid water spots. For stainless steel sinks, polishing the faucet with a touch of vinegar adds a streak-free shine and prevents mineral buildup.'

Cleaning expert Aminah Vieira warns, 'If your sink is made of natural stone, use specialist cleaners [such as Bar Keeper's Friend granite & Stone Polish from Amazon] instead, as vinegar can cause damage.'

You can use a scrubbing brush to tackle pesky drains and tight corners or tracks. Editor Punteha tried scrubbing brushes and found them they pulled dirt out of otherwise seemingly clean sinks, traps and drains.

Don't forget to clean the garbage disposal too, if you have one.

Stephanie Gerber, natural living blogger and founder of Hello Glow has a clean and easy solution for this, and you only need white vinegar, citrus peels, and an ice cube tray.

She recommends putting a few citrus peels into an ice cube tray and filling it with vinegar. Freeze until solid and transfer to a lidded container. To use, put a cube down the disposal and run it.

Not only will it stop a garbage disposal from smelling, but the ice will help sharpen the blades too, keeping your disposal efficient for longer.

8. Countertop appliances

Anything on our countertop is constantly exposed to splashes and grease, so it is a good idea to give these a once over while deep cleaning your kitchen.

Aminah Vieira begins, 'Clean a microwave by heating a bowl of water with several lemon slices for three minutes, letting the steam loosen dried-on food particles. The condensation makes it easy to wipe away stuck-on spots with a damp microfibre cloth, whilst the lemon leaves your microwave smelling wonderfully fresh.'

Don't forget to clean your coffee maker while you're at it. Make this chore hassle-free by pouring white vinegar directly into the machine and letting it run once. Follow up with a few runs with only water in the tank until the smell is gone and the water runs clean. Build-up be gone!

We would caution: whether you are cleaning a kettle, cleaning a blender, cleaning an air fryer, or any other type of small appliance (including a coffee maker), always read the care manual before you clean it. Some manufacturers warn against using certain chemicals, including vinegar, and doing so may invalidate your warranty.

9. The trash can

With almost everything clean, the penultimate thing to do is empty your trash can and clean it out.

With the bag removed to our outdoor waste bin, use a disinfecting spray and some paper towels to wipe out the interior of your trash can, not forgetting the inside of the lid. To mask trash can smells, you can throw a few cotton balls from Walmart, soaked in nice-smelling essential oils into the base before popping in a new bag.

Give the same treatment to the outside of the trash bin.

10. Finish with the floor

The final task when cleaning any room is to tackle the floor. This way, you pick up any crumbs or fust that has fallen and settled as you have worked.

To clean a kitchen floor, Aminah Vieira says, 'For pristine kitchen floors, start by sweeping or vacuuming to remove loose crumbs or pet hair.

'Then mop with a cleaning solution that is suited to your flooring type. Use hot water and a specialist floor cleaner for tiles, or a damp (not wet) mop for wooden floors. For tiled floors, it can be helpful to use a clean toothbrush and the cleaning solution to remove stubborn stains from the grout. Always start in the corner furthest from the door and work backward so you're not walking over cleaned areas.'

FAQs

How do people keep their kitchens so clean?

The most important thing people with nice-smelling, clean kitchens always do is clean as they go. When cooking, for example, they will start loading dishes into the dishwasher or cleaning down counters as things cook, helping to prevent a build-up of mess that is more difficult to get rid of later. You can also take multiple steps to banish cooking odors.

What should you avoid when cleaning a kitchen?

When cleaning a kitchen, it is best to avoid using overly astringent chemical cleaners that can leave toxic residue behind and contaminate your food. A 2020 study found that natural cleaners such as vinegar are proven to kill bacteria (including dangerous pathogens like E.coli), making it an ideal choice for a clean, healthy kitchen that is safe to cook in.

Generally speaking, you should quickly clean a kitchen weekly, focusing on the counters, sink, and stove, and deep clean a kitchen using the above guide monthly to stay on top of grime.

Following a kitchen closing shift routine nightly can also help you stay on top of mess, tackling crumbs and grease before you end up cleaning when you feel overwhelmed.

Cleaning a bathroom isn't exactly glamorous, but it is a vital chore that has to be done to keep a home sanitized.

With so many deep cleaning tasks to get through, however, it can be hard to know where to start.

Luckily, expert cleaners have shared their best cleaning tips for sprucing up bathrooms to help you combat mold, bacteria, and any odors for a spick-and-span spa-like sanctuary at home.

How to clean a bathroom like a pro

Before you can start cleaning, it helps to have a few basic but essential cleaning supplies, such as non-toxic bathroom cleaners, to hand:

• Microfiber cloths, from Walmart
• A detail brush, available in sets at Walmart, for grout and around faucets
• A soft scrubbing brush or sponge, such as a Scrub Mommy from Walmart
• An all-purpose bathroom cleaner, such as the all-natural Attitude bathroom cleaner from Walmart . Alternatively, why not try making your own DIY non-toxic bathroom cleaner
• A toilet bowl cleaner, such as Lysol from Walmart

1. Declutter first

It’s much easier to clean a bathroom if you’re not working around a mountain of toiletries, bathing supplies and surplus towels, so decluttering a bathroom before cleaning it will help, though you won't have to take this step every time.

To begin, clear everything off the surfaces in your bathroom – including around the bathtub and any shower nooks – and put anything that isn’t in frequent use away if possible.

Empty the trash and put any empty shampoo bottles and toilet rolls in the recycling bins. Now is also a good time to put towels and the bathmat in the laundry basket. If you're wondering how often to clean your towels, a good rule of thumb is around every 3-4 uses.

2. Dust before cleaning

Your next job is getting rid of dust in the bathroom.

Vanessa Bossart, professional cleaner and founder of GreenTerra Cleaning says, 'At GreenTerra, we use a two-phase cleaning method: the Dry Round and the Wet Round.

'The Dry Round is all about removing loose debris, like dust, hair, and cobwebs, from every surface. We work from top to bottom, starting with ceiling corners, vents, and light fixtures, and move systematically clockwise around the room. Vacuuming the bathroom during this phase is a must as it prevents hair and dust from clumping when we move on to wet cleaning. Skipping this step only makes the job harder later!'

After this, the Wet Round entails spraying cleaning solutions on the now dust-free surfaces, also known as the Dry-Damp cleaning rule, be it with DIY cleaning sprays or commercial cleaners, or using a damp cloth on the surfaces to clear any lingering debris.

3. Set some solution in the toilet

While the toilet is not the first thing you should clean in the bathroom, Delah Gomasi, cleaning expert and CEO of MaidForYou shares, 'The best pro-tip when cleaning bathrooms is to let cleaning products sit. This means pouring toilet cleaner around the bowl, spraying baths, showers, and sinks with the appropriate cleaning solutions, and allowing them to sit for a few minutes.

'We recommend leaving the toilet bowl cleaner for about 10 minutes to really break down grime and kill germs.'

While that is left to soak, you can get on cleaning the rest of the bathroom.

4. Clean the bath and shower

To start your deep cleaning, turn your attention to cleaning a shower and bath. These take up most of your energy, so it is best to get them out of the way.

Rhonda Wilson, quality lead cleaner at FreshSpace Cleaning says, 'For this part, some people prefer to DIY by making a paste out of baking soda [from Walmart] and water to apply to stains, dissolve grime and soap scum. Usually, a non-scratch sponge or brush is used to scrub. Paying special attention to corners and edges, then thoroughly rinse with hot water.

'If store-bought cleaners are okay for you, we suggest Clorox Bathroom Ultra Foamer, from Walmart, because it only takes three minutes, and there’s no need to scrub. Simply rinse with water. But if you do need to, save your back by using a long-handled scrub brush [available at Amazon].

'For shower glass, follow the same process and wipe it down with a squeegee to prevent water spots. For shower liners, check if it can be washed in the washing machine, then hung up to dry completely so that mold doesn’t build up.'

To clean glass shower doors with tough limescale deposits, you can also use the 'S' technique for cleaning and clean with The Pink Stuff. This gentle abrasive breaks down hard water deposits and soap scum without scratching the glass. Apply in circles using a sponge or a Scrub Daddy dampened with warm water to make it soft. Then rinse away with warm water and buff dry with a clean cloth or towel. The Cleantech Joseph Joseph kit is great for this too, and makes it easy to and makes it easy to scrub tiles and shine glass with just one handy product. The included telescopic scrubber can be used for hard to reach cleaning, too.

5. Freshen up tiles and grout

Cleaning shower grout and any tiles will be your next big bathroom cleaning job.

To make it easier, Delah Gomasi says, 'We use a tile grout or detailing brush combined with a specially-formulated grout cleaner such as Zep [from Walmart] to get those lines clean and free from dirt, soap scum, bacteria, and the likes.

'For bathroom tiles, especially those that have been dulled by hard water, we use a limescale remover to give them a glistening finish.' Always be sure to check your tile cleaner against the product to make sure it is safe for use. Some types of tiles need special treatment to maintain their appearance. If in doubt, test the product on a small, inconspicuous area first.

If you want to skip the chemicals altogether and lessen the need to scrub, we have found the best way to clean shower grout is with one of the best steam cleaners in hand. Fitted with a grout brush, a steam cleaner kills bacteria (including that pink bacteria that discolors your shower) to leave truly clean tiles behind, all without scrubbing.

6. Finish the toilet

Now the cleaning agents have had time to soak, you can go back to the toilet and finish off.

Marla Mock, cleaning pro and president at Molly Maid USA says, 'Scrub the toilet cleaner inside the bowl with a clean toilet brush [silicone toilet brushes, from Amazon, are great for this, as they are easy to keep clean], and flush. Then, use an all-purpose cleaner on the seat, lid, and exterior, buffing and drying before throwing the cloth in the laundry.'

Make sure to wash it on a hot wash for sanitation.

7. Don't forget mirrors and accessories

Before cleaning the sink, clean any of the accessories you keep on your vanity and set them aside to make all surfaces available for sanitation.

Bethany Skorik, lifestyle coach and owner of The Charming Diplomat says, 'Remember to wipe down soap dispensers, tissue boxes, toothbrush holders, and all other storage items each time you clean the sink. Everything displayed in a bathroom should be clean and sterile, including flower arrangements, decorations, and shampoo bottles. Dust and soap scum suggest a superficial cleanliness level, which is NOT what we want in the bathroom!'

These need dusting or running under some warm water and washed out with some dish soap, such as Dawn from Walmart, to break down grime and keep your essentials hygienic.

Take some time to clean a mirror without leaving streaks while you're at it. Marla Mock, cleaning pro, recommends 'polishing mirrors with a glass cleaner, working from side to side with a lint free cloth to help avoid streaks.'

8. Scrub the sink

Now that the bulk of your deep cleaning is done and you are largely finished rinsing items under the faucet, you can clean the bathroom sink.

Delah Gomasi assures us, 'An all-purpose cleaning spray works just fine for both your bathroom sink, cleaning faucet heads, and counter (avoid acidic cleaners on natural stone).'

Simply spray and buff the solution away with a microfiber cloth. We've tried buffing candle wax on faucets and it prevents water marks for up to a week.

9. Check drains

This step may not be necessary every time, but if you find yourself standing in an inch of water when showering, or your bath is taking forever to empty, it’s worth flushing out the drains.

James Roberts, director at Sanctuary Bathrooms says, 'The most common cause of these bathtub clogs is a build-up of hair, grease, and soap scum. If left untreated, slow-draining water can leave a slippery surface in your bath or shower, which could be a potential slip hazard.

'To solve the issue, first, clear any visible and reachable blockages free of the plughole and then test to see if this has worked by pouring water down the drain.

‘If that doesn’t unblock your drain, try mixing a DIY drain cleaning solution with vinegar and sodium bicarbonate. Mixing soda and vinegar creates a bubbling reaction that can really help shift build-ups. This simple household trick is a cheap and safe alternative to stronger chemicals.'

If the blockage still remains, try using a Plumber’s Snake (available from Amazon or your local hardware store) to dislodge it. For a really stubborn blockage, you may need to resort to stronger chemicals.

10. Finish with floors and mats

The final step in any room is the floor. This makes it so you are not worrying about spilling cleaning solutions or dripping water onto the fresh bathroom floor ideas when cleaning everything else.

To clean a bathroom floor, Marla Mock says, 'Remove items like baskets or bins and sweep corners and edges. Vacuum remaining debris before mopping with warm water and all-purpose cleaner.

'Allow the floor to dry before using the space.'

It is helpful to start in the furthest corner from the door and work backward towards the door to keep your feet dry and minimize marks on the freshly mopped floor while it dries.

11. Restore order

All that’s left to do now is replace the toiletries and toothbrushes you removed for cleaning, add fresh towels, and make a bathroom smell fresh.

Belinda Everingham, founder of Bondi Wash says, ‘A few drops of your favorite essential oil in the toilet helps remove odors and will leave your bathroom smelling fresh and inviting.'

You may want to give towels a refresh too, making sure you know how to soften towels when you wash them to give your clean bathroom the perfect finishing touch.

FAQs

How often should you clean your bathroom?

How often you should clean a bathroom generally depends on usage, but the general rule of thumb is at least once a week.

Heavily used family bathrooms may require freshening up more often, while lesser-used guest bathrooms can get away with less frequent cleans.

Deep cleaning a bathroom is a little easier when you follow some of the more regular things people with clean homes have in common.

Small tasks people with clean bathrooms always do, like using a squeegee on the screen after showering, closing the toilet lid when flushing, and rinsing toothpaste off basins, will help make deeper cleans less backbreaking.

Next, learn how to get rid of water stains.