A clean and organized home is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also creates a sense of peace and happiness. However, the thought of tackling a deep cleaning can often be daunting. The build-up of dust and grime in hard-to-reach places, along with the need to thoroughly sanitize high-touch areas, can make the task seem overwhelming. But fear not, deep cleaning your space doesn’t have to be as difficult as it sounds. With the right tools, techniques, and a little bit of elbow grease, you can transform your home into a sparkling oasis.
Here are some expert tips and clever hacks that will make your deep cleaning process a breeze:
Bedroom
1. Clean your blinds with a sock.
To rid your window blinds of the pesky dust that accumulates over time, take an old, worn tube sock and dip it in a solution of one part vinegar and one part water. As you carefully run the sock along each slat, the acidic mixture cuts through the grime, leaving behind a sparkling clean surface. Remember to twist the blinds in the opposite direction to ensure every inch is covered. With this simple yet effective technique, your blinds will shine like new once again.
2. Wash your bedding and mattress.
As you prepare to refresh your bedding, take the extra step of washing your duvet, bedskirt, and even your mattress. These oft-forgotten items can harbor dust, dirt, and hair particles that can affect your sleep and overall hygiene.
To tackle your mattress, begin by using the nozzle attachment on your vacuum to thoroughly suction up any debris lurking within the crevices. Next, utilize an upholstery cleaner specially designed for mattresses to eliminate stubborn stains and lingering odors.
For a more natural approach, sprinkle baking soda over the surface of your mattress and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a pleasant scent. Allow it to sit for at least an hour before vacuuming it off, revealing a fresh and rejuvenated sleeping space.
3. Use a lint roller to get the dust off lampshades.
With ease and efficiency, you can make your lamp shine like new. To truly rejuvenate it, take a step further and gently wipe down the base with a damp microfiber cloth. Watch as dirt and grime disappear, revealing the true luster of your beloved lamp. The cloth glides smoothly over the surface, leaving behind a clean and polished finish. Your once dull and overlooked lamp now stands out as a shining centerpiece in your room.
Kitchen
4. Scrub the front of your kitchen cabinets.
Revitalize your tired kitchen cabinets with a simple but effective cleaning method. Grab a brand new dish brush and some soapy water, or opt for a natural solution of one part vegetable oil to two parts baking soda, to effortlessly eliminate pesky food stains and unsightly fingerprints from the surfaces. Watch as the cabinets are transformed back to their beautiful, gleaming state in no time at all. Say goodbye to dull and grimey cabinets and hello to a fresh and inviting kitchen space!
5. Clean your sink drain with baking soda and lemon.
The kitchen sink, a neglected and often grimy area, was in dire need of a deep clean. To tackle the task at hand, take one cup of baking soda and pour it down the drain, followed by two cups of vinegar. As the two substances combined, a gentle hiss could be heard as they worked to break down any buildup or blockages within the pipes. Let this powerful mixture sit for a few minutes, allowing it to work its magic before washing it all away with a stream of boiling water. The once murky and clogged drain now ran clear and free.
To add a refreshing touch to this sanitized space, slice up some fresh lemon wedges and drop them down the disposal. The zesty aroma would fill the air, leaving behind a clean and citrus-y scent that would linger long after the cleaning process was complete. With every breath, the kitchen now smelled like a freshly squeezed fruit stand on a warm summer day.
6. Clean the inside and outside of your fridge.
Using a damp cloth sprinkled with baking soda, gently scrub away any stubborn stains or dirt spots on the exterior of your refrigerator. As you work, the scent of fresh citrus fills the air, invigorating and awakening your senses.
When the outside is spotless, it’s time to tackle the inside. Start by removing all of your food and placing it in a temporary location. Then, carefully remove the shelves and bins from the fridge and set them aside.
With a mixture of warm water and mild dishwashing soap, gently wash down the interior of your fridge. Each swipe reveals a pristine surface, free of any lingering spills or crumbs.
Once the interior is clean, turn your attention back to the shelves and bins. Wash them thoroughly before drying them off and returning them to their rightful place inside the fridge.
Just remember to unplug or turn off your fridge before cleaning the inside to ensure safety and efficiency. Now, take a step back and admire your sparkling clean refrigerator, ready to store all of your fresh groceries with pride.
7. Clean out your oven with baking soda, vinegar, and dishwashing liquid.
Even the most advanced self-cleaning oven needs a little TLC every now and then. Years of Thanksgiving feasts, roasted turkeys, and messy nachos have left their mark in the form of stubborn stains and scorch marks. But fear not, with this powerful concoction, your oven will shine like new again.
In a small bowl, mix together 4 teaspoons of baking soda, 5 teaspoons of vinegar, and a few drops of dish soap to create a sudsy solution. Let the mixture sit for a few hours, allowing it to penetrate and break down the tough grime.
As you wipe away the residue with a clean, wet cloth, you’ll notice the once-dirty surface transforming into a sparkling clean oven. The sweet smell of fresh lemons from the dish soap fills the air, making you feel satisfied with your efforts and leaving your kitchen smelling fresh and inviting. Now, your oven is ready to take on any cooking challenge that comes its way.
Office
8. Use a coffee filter to clean your computer screen.
Forget about expensive, specialized lint-free cloths. A simple coffee filter, the kind used for brewing your morning cup of caffeine, is all you need to effectively remove dust and fingerprints from the gunked-up screens of your prized possessions – whether it be your beloved TV, trusty computer, or treasured tablet. This unassuming yet surprisingly effective tool will leave your screens looking crystal clear and free of any blemishes or smudges. So toss out those costly cleaning materials and give a coffee filter a try for a budget-friendly and efficient solution. Your screens will thank you for it.
9. Wipe down your bookshelves with a magnetic cloth.
Don’t let the organized appearance of your bookcase fool you – it may still be harboring a significant amount of dust and dirt. Delicate and hard-to-reach areas, such as the tops of books and bookshelves, are notorious for collecting these unwanted particles.
For a thorough clean, take a magnetic cloth and gently wipe down the tops and spines of your books. Then, remove all items from your shelves and use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe down every surface.
If you find yourself running out of space on your bookcase, it may be time to assess which books are truly essential to keep. Consider implementing one of these 9 clever hacks for storing books in small apartments to make the most efficient use of your limited space.
10. Clean your desk with the appropriate cleaning products.
As you begin the task of ridding your desk of the dust and grime that has accumulated over long periods of working (or let’s be real, procrastinating), start by carefully removing everything from its surface. The once-familiar items now scattered across the floor remind you just how much time has passed since you last deep cleaned your workspace.
Next, armed with a clean cloth, tackle the stubborn coffee stains, tiny crumbs, and smudged fingerprints that have taken up residence on your desk. With each swipe of the cloth, the once dull surface begins to reveal a glossy shine.
But before choosing a cleaning product, consider your desk’s material. Is it made of rich wood, sleek glass, or sturdy metal? Each requires a different approach and specialized products to ensure a thorough clean. Taking these extra precautions will ensure your desk not only looks pristine but also prolong its life for many more days (and procrastination sessions) to come.
Living Room
11. Use Dawn dish soap to get rid of stains on fabric sofas.
Apply a small amount of Dawn dish soap onto the stain and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Afterward, wipe it away using a damp cloth. This method is highly effective.
12. Iron out your carpet stains.
To effectively remove a stubborn stain, create a solution with equal parts vinegar and water. Using a spray bottle, mist the stained area and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, place a damp rag over the stain and set your iron to the “steam” setting. Gently press the iron onto the rag for about 30 seconds, allowing the heat and steam to penetrate the fabric and lift the stain away. The smell of vinegar permeates the air as you work, but soon the once-noticeable blemish disappears, leaving your garment looking fresh and clean once again.
Bathroom
13. Wash your shower curtain and liner.
Say goodbye to stubborn stains, soap scum buildup, and pesky mildew by giving your shower curtain and liner a deep clean. Don’t worry about the material – even plastic can be washed! Simply toss them in the washing machine with a few bath towels to prevent wrinkling.
Add in your regular detergent along with a generous cup of baking soda for an extra boost of cleaning power. Set your machine to a warm wash and let it work its magic. Once finished, hang up your freshly washed curtain and liner to dry.
With this simple hack, your shower essentials will be sparkling clean and ready for their next use. No more worries about unsightly stains or musty odors – just a refreshing and hygienic shower experience every time.
14. Wipe down your shower walls with vinegar and dish soap.
Create a cleaning solution by combining equal parts of dish soap and vinegar. Use this potent mixture to scrub your shower walls and banish any trace of grime and dirt from the tile grout, leaving it glistening white. For best results, clean your shower just before using it so that all residue can be easily rinsed off with the warm water. Witness the transformation as your shower walls go from dull and dirty to bright and shiny, making your bathroom feel like a luxurious spa retreat.
15. Brush your faucet with a toothbrush, baking soda, and water.
If your sink and shower faucets are marred by unsightly hard water stains and built-up grime, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda onto an old toothbrush. Add a few drops of water to create a paste and gently scrub the surface until it gleams like new. The once dull and discolored faucet now shines with a sparkling sheen, free from any trace of mineral deposits or dirt. Now you can enjoy the refreshing feel of clean, glistening faucets every time you turn on the water.
Closet
16. Thoroughly vacuum the floor.
It’s the perfect moment to meticulously vacuum every inch of your closet floor. The accumulation of dust, dirt, and tangled strands of hair from your clothes creates an uninviting atmosphere. Not to mention the invisible bacteria that cling to your shoes with each step inside. Even if you have a hard surface, it too has gathered layers of grime over time.
To truly deep clean, take things a step further and mop the closet floor with a mixture of warm water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. This will help break down any stubborn stains or residue left behind by daily wear and tear. Then, using a soft cloth, gently rub the floor in circular motions to ensure every corner is spotless and sanitized. Your closet will feel refreshed and ready for a new season of clothes and shoes to grace its floors.
17. Clean your shelves with all-purpose cleaner and a damp rag.
Remove every article of clothing from your shelves and carefully wipe them down with a powerful all-purpose cleaner and a damp rag. It may seem like a tedious task, but the end result will be worth it when you no longer have to sift through layers of dust to find your favorite jeans or T-shirts. The air will feel fresher and your clothes will look brighter without the constant layer of grime. A clean and organized space is an essential part of creating a comfortable and functional living environment. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to tackle this task – the satisfaction of a dust-free wardrobe awaits!
Laundry Room
18. Clean your washing machine with the ultimate cleaning power duo.
The sleek, modern front-loading washing machine and dryer gleamed in the light. However, despite their pristine appearance, hidden within the nooks and crannies of the machine lurked mold and mildew that could leave your clothes with a musty odor. To prevent this problem, regular cleaning is necessary.
But how can you effectively clean your washing machine?
The answer lies in two powerful household ingredients: vinegar and baking soda. These natural cleaners work together to eliminate any buildup and odors lingering in your machine, leaving it fresh and ready for your next load of laundry. Say goodbye to funky-smelling clothes and hello to a sparkling clean washing machine.
19. Vacuum your lint dryer.
Clogged and dusty dryer ducts can be a major fire hazard in any household, making it imperative to consistently clear them out. The accumulation of lint and debris can create a potentially dangerous environment, threatening the safety of the home and its inhabitants. It is essential for homeowners to stay on top of this maintenance task in order to prevent potential disasters. By keeping these ducts clean and free of obstructions, one can ensure a safe and worry-free living space for themselves and their loved ones.
Entryway
20. Wipe down your baseboards.
Everyday household items can have unexpected uses, like a simple rag or sponge dipped in warm, soapy water becoming a powerful tool for scrubbing away scuff marks and dirt from your baseboards. The warm water loosens the grime, allowing it to easily be wiped away. For an added touch of freshness, finish off your newly cleaned baseboards by gently rubbing them with a dryer sheet. Not only will this leave behind a pleasant scent, but the slight residue left by the fabric softener will also repel dust, keeping your baseboards looking cleaner for longer. It’s the little things that can make a big difference in maintaining a clean and tidy home.
21. Dust and wash everything.
Start from the top and make your way down: Begin by scrubbing your walls with a powerful soap or degreasing agent. The sharp scent of chemicals fills the air as you work to rid your walls of any grime or buildup. As you move down, sweeping and mopping your floor becomes the next task on your cleaning checklist. With each stroke of the broom and swipe of the mop, you can feel the satisfaction of removing dirt, leftover chemicals, and stubborn oil residue from your flooring.
Basement
22. Clean your light bulbs.
With a twist, the light bulbs loosened from their fixtures and were carefully removed. Dust, thick and filmy, clung to their delicate glass surfaces. Using a soft microfiber cloth, each bulb was gently wiped clean until they shone like new. When placed back into their respective lamps and pendants, the room was illuminated with a renewed brightness. The once dull and dusty fixtures now glowed with a grateful radiance, as if thanking their owner for the extra care and attention. A simple task, yet one that made all the difference in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
23. Wash your window tracks.
The window tracks were a repulsive sight, caked with layers of dust, dirt, and even the remains of dead flies. Every time you opened or closed your windows, it was impossible not to cringe at the filth that greeted you. But then The Intentional Mom came to the rescue with her ingenious solution.
She began by sprinkling a generous amount of baking soda onto the grimy tracks, followed by a small pour of vinegar on top. As the two substances reacted, she let them sit for a few minutes to work their magic. Then, armed with a rag or old toothbrush, she scrubbed away at the stubborn dirt until it disappeared. Finally, she wiped down the tracks until they were clean and sparkling once again.
Attic
24. Suck up cobwebs with a vacuum hose.
A thick blanket of dust and dirt coated the surfaces, threatening to ruin any items left unattended. These relics of the past – vintage furniture and vinyl records – were at risk of fading away into obscurity. But with careful maintenance, they could continue to be cherished treasures. Using a powerful vacuum, carefully rid your attic of cobwebs and grime that threaten to damage these precious belongings. Your efforts will ensure their longevity and preserve their history for years to come.
25. Donate anything you don’t need.
You know those dusty, forgotten cardboard boxes filled with old craft supplies, CDs, and DVDs? The ones that have been stowed away and hidden for years, gathering layers of cobwebs and neglect? It’s time to bid them farewell. Set free the memories and clutter, make room for new beginnings. Let the box be reborn as a blank canvas, ready to be filled with new treasures and adventures. Say goodbye to the past, and open up space for endless possibilities in the present. Give yourself the chance to start anew by clearing out the old relics and making space for new experiences.