eremedies

Cleaning 101: Speed Cleaning

Can you believe you can clean your entire house (really well) in an hour? You might not believe it but it's possible with the right organization and a dedicated hour. It could take even less time with a friend to help!

* Make sure you have the right tools: a good angled broom, a wet/dry mop (the jet ones from Clorox or Swiffer work well), a vacuum cleaner, several microfiber and cotton cloths, a good squeegee, an all-purpose cleaning spray (dilute a tablespoon of dishwashing liquid like Dawn or Joy in water), a duster with an extendable pole, and a porcelain/tile foam that will clean those surfaces. It may also be worth your time to make a baking soda/water paste for scouring. As you read below, you may discover other things you might need depending on the surfaces in your home. Add them to your list.

* Make a plan. Schedule the time and day, and map out your home. Note which rooms are on the top/bottom floors (if you have them), what's next to where, and where the doors, closets, and bathrooms are. Also make note of windows.

* Once you know what you need (after you finish reading this list), make a belt pack with supplies and carry everything to the first place you'll need it, at the top floor of your home.

* Clean your house top to bottom. Literally. Start at the top floor, at the back. If you have a hallway, work from the end towards the stairs. Do the ceilings first, dusting out the cobwebs.

* Next do the walls and windows. For windows, spray on the cleaning spray, squeegee off. Wipe the squeegee with a cloth at regular intervals. Always squeegee ACROSS the window, NOT DOWN.

* Finally, the floors. You may need to sweep first. Don't forget under the beds! Sweep quickly, with both hands from the side. Then use the mop, if your floors are sealed. For carpets simply vacuum. If you have rugs, shake out the rugs, remove, sweep/mop, then replace the rug and vacuum it, if necessary.

* Bathrooms are a special place. After the ceiling and windows, spray the tub, tiles, sink, and toilet (all porcelain surfaces) with the foam. While it sits, shake out the rugs, then sweep and mop the floor.

* If you have backyard or front areas that need to be cleaned, do these before anything else. You risk tracking in dirt!

* You shouldn't need to clean as often if you follow these tips. For more detailed cleaning ideas, see here. For information on how to stop dust, check here.