Staying on top of cleaning tasks while juggling a busy schedule can be challenging. Molly Maid® can help you streamline your routine for a more efficient and effective cleaning plan. Curious about what is included in general house cleaning? Let us walk you through our recommendations.
Table of Contents:
Essential Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning a home involves various surfaces and areas, each requiring specific supplies. For general cleaning, microfiber cloths are a must-have due to their effectiveness and reusability. They're eco-friendly, reducing the need for disposable paper towels.
For bathrooms and kitchens, an all-purpose cleaner, preferably one that's plant-based, tackles most grime, and is safer for the environment. Baking soda and vinegar are excellent for tough stains and safe for most surfaces. Don't forget a biodegradable scrub brush for tougher jobs.
A steam mop is an efficient and eco-friendly option for floors, as it uses only water, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals. Lastly, for windows and glass, a solution of vinegar and water with a squeegee provides a streak-free finish without harmful chemicals.
Effective DIY Cleaners
Homemade cleaning solutions offer cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits. A versatile all-purpose cleaner can be made by mixing equal parts water and vinegar, adding effectiveness with a few drops of lemon essential oil. For windows, a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water works wonders.
Baking soda is excellent for scrubbing, especially when mixed into a paste with water. Lemon juice is great for tackling grease and leaving a fresh scent. These simple, natural ingredients reduce reliance on harsh chemicals and packaging, supporting both your budget and the planet.
Room-Specific Cleaning Tips
General cleaning at home means taking a strategic approach to each room:
- Kitchen: Focus on grease and food stains. Use a degreaser for appliances and countertops. Clean the sink with baking soda and vinegar for a natural, effective solution.
- Bathroom: Tackle mold and soap scum. Use a disinfectant for surfaces and a specialized cleaner for grout and tiles. Don't forget to wash shower curtains regularly.
- Bedroom: Dusting is key, especially on blinds and ceiling fans. Vacuum regularly, and use gentle cleaners for furniture.
- Living Room: Regular vacuuming and dusting are essential. Use upholstery cleaner for sofas and chairs. For hardwood floors, a microfiber mop with a gentle cleanser preserves the finish.
- Laundry Room: Dust window sills and shelves. Wipe down and rinse out your utility sink Sanitize all surfaces, including your washing machine and dryer.
- Office: Clean floors with a mop or vacuum. Dust your desk, picture frames, and computer monitor. Regularly remove trash and recycling.
- Kids' Room: Dust off surfaces like baseboards and window sills. Clean hanging and decorative items. Wipe down furniture and light fixtures. Vacuum floors and upholstered furniture.
Each room has its quirks — from kitchen grease to bathroom mold. Addressing these with room-specific strategies ensures a thorough, efficient clean.
Cleaning Schedules
Create a cleaning schedule that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. Daily tasks could include dishwashing, wiping down kitchen counters, and a quick floor sweep. Weekly chores might involve vacuuming, bathroom cleaning, and dusting. Once a month, you might focus on tasks such as cleaning the oven, washing curtains, or organizing closets.
To customize your general cleaning routine, prioritize areas based on usage. For instance, busy kitchens may need more frequent attention. Allocate tasks throughout the week to avoid overwhelming weekends, and consider family involvement for shared responsibilities. Adjust as needed based on your routine and home’s demands.
Cleaning Hacks and Shortcuts
For efficient cleaning, group tasks by room or type. Use a cleaning caddy for easy access to supplies. Implement a “top-down” approach, starting from higher surfaces. This method will help you to avoid cleaning the same surface twice. For multitasking, soak items while working on other tasks. Microfiber cloths speed up dusting and wiping, while a steam mop quickly cleans various floor types. These hacks make cleaning quicker, allowing more time for other activities.
Organizing and Decluttering
What does a general clean include, you might ask? Decluttering is certainly at the heart of every good cleaning session. Start with categorizing items to keep, donate, or discard. Regularly review and clear out unnecessary items. Use vertical storage, such as shelves and hanging organizers, to maximize space. Implement designated spots for frequently used items and maintain a routine of putting things back after use, ensuring an organized, clutter-free environment.
Help When You Need It
Cleaning a home sometimes feels like a full-time job. With kids running around, relationships to maintain, and hobbies to enjoy, it can be hard to find time to even just mop the floor. That’s why Molly Maid offers custom cleaning plans for all budgets and schedules.
Answering the question “What is included in general house cleaning?” starts with Molly Maid doing a thorough assessment of your home, and we’ll then create a custom plan for you. Rest easy knowing our cleaning services are backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise™, which ensures that we’ll get the job done right the first time. Request a free estimate today!
Household Cleaning Tips
Below you’ll find additional tips and tricks to efficiently clean your home, from the cleaning experts who care.
