How to Clean Your Apartment: 10 Simple Tips
Keeping your apartment tidy might appear difficult at first, but with a well-thought-out plan and essential cleaning supplies, it's entirely achievable. The additional mental clarity and tranquility that a clean environment provides cannot be overstated. Regular cleaning not only enhances your physical space but also positively impacts your overall mental health. This all-inclusive guide aims to lead you through every step of the process, making sure no area is neglected.
In our previous blogs we have discussed how to deep clean your apartment and checklist to follow. In this blog, we will provide 10 essential tips to keep your apartment clean and maintain hygiene and freshness.
Essential Cleaning Supplies: What You'll Need
Keeping a clean apartment is easier when you have the right tools at your disposal. This list of essential cleaning supplies will set you up for success, making the process both efficient and effective.
Multi-Purpose Cleaner: A versatile cleaner that can be used on a variety of surfaces such as countertops, tables, and some types of flooring. It's your go-to for most cleaning tasks.
Glass Cleaner: Designed to remove smudges and fingerprints from windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces. A streak-free finish is what you should aim for.
Floor Cleaner: Specifically formulated for the type of flooring you have, whether it's tile, hardwood, or laminate. Using the right cleaner ensures both cleanliness and long-term care for your floors.
Microfiber Cloths: More effective than traditional cotton cloths, these can clean surfaces without leaving lint behind and are typically machine-washable for reuse.
Vacuum Cleaner: An essential tool for cleaning carpets, rugs, and even hard floors. Look for one with various attachments for cleaning upholstery and hard-to-reach corners.
Mop and Bucket: Used for cleaning non-carpeted floors. Consider a spin mop for less mess and an easier, more thorough clean.
Sponges and Scrubbers: Sponges are ideal for lighter cleaning tasks, offering versatility, while scrubbers are specifically designed to tackle tougher grime, such as the ones found in bathrooms or on stove tops.
Garbage Bags: Necessary for disposing of waste, it's always handy to have various sizes. Heavy-duty bags may be needed for larger or more substantial items.
By gathering these essential cleaning supplies, you'll be well-equipped to tackle nearly any cleaning task in your apartment. Having the right tools not only makes the process more efficient but also more effective, resulting in a cleaner, fresher living space.
How to Clean Your Apartment?
Maintaining a tidy living space may seem like a formidable challenge, but it's entirely manageable with a well-organized approach and some key cleaning essentials. Guide below is designed to lead you through 9 cleaning steps, guaranteeing that no area is left untouched.
Tip #1: Declutter
Before diving into the actual cleaning, first declutter all the rooms in your apartment. Eliminating unnecessary items and organizing your belongings will streamline the cleaning process, making it both easier and more efficient.
Sort Items: Begin by sorting items into categories—keep, discard, or donate. This will give you a clearer idea of what you actually need and what is simply taking up space.
Remove Obstacles: Move furniture or other large items that may obstruct your cleaning. This ensures that you can reach all corners of the room effectively.
Organize: Put back only the items that you intend to keep, and make sure they are organized. Use storage boxes, baskets, or drawer organizers to keep things neat.
Dispose of Trash: Use this opportunity to empty out waste bins in each room, replacing them with fresh liners.
In any cleaning routine, it is absolutely essential to thoroughly wipe down all hard surfaces. These areas are where dust, grime, and bacteria tend to accumulate the most. It is crucial to address them with great care and diligence.
Tip #2: Dusting the Rooms
After using the cleaner, it is advisable to dust the surfaces that come into contact with food or sensitive items with a water-dampened cloth. This will effectively eliminate any residue and ensure cleanliness.
Ceiling and Corners: Begin by using a long-handled duster to reach the ceiling and corners to remove any cobwebs.
Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures: Turn off electrical fixtures for safety, and then dust the blades of ceiling fans, chandeliers, or pendant lights.
Blinds and Window Sills: Use a microfiber cloth or a specialized duster to clean blinds and window sills. This is often a forgotten area that collects a significant amount of dust.
Furniture and Shelves: Wipe down all furniture, making sure to lift any items on shelves or tables to get underneath them.
Electronics: Dust accumulates quickly on electronics. Use a soft cloth to wipe down TVs, computers, and other devices.
Baseboards and Molding: Finish by dusting baseboards, molding, and other lower surfaces. A soft-bristled brush can be helpful here.
By systematically dusting each room from top to bottom, you'll prevent resettling of dust and ensure that your apartment is as allergen-free as possible.
Tip #3: Vacuum Carpets and Rugs
Regular vacuuming is not only important for making your space look clean, but it also plays a crucial role in creating a healthy living environment. Carpets and rugs can harbor dust, allergens, and tiny pests, making it essential to keep them well-maintained. Here's how to ensure a thorough vacuuming:
Preparation: Before you begin, pick up any objects like toys, papers, or small pieces of furniture that might obstruct the vacuum cleaner.
Spot Treatment: For any visible stains or spots, use a carpet cleaner for spot treatment before you start vacuuming.
High-Traffic Areas: Pay special attention to high-traffic areas, as these collect the most dirt and wear out the quickest. You may need to go over these areas multiple times.
Corners and Edges: To effectively tackle those pesky dust particles that gather in tight corners and along the edges of your room, rely on a crevice tool or nozzle attachment.
Under Furniture: Don’t neglect the areas under the furniture. For a truly comprehensive cleaning, make use of the attachments on your vacuum cleaner or temporarily move furniture.
Rug Flip: For area rugs, it's a good idea to vacuum both sides. Flip the rug over and vacuum the underside to ensure you've gotten all the trapped dirt.
Final Pass: Make a final pass in a straight line pattern to leave your carpets looking freshly groomed.
When you meticulously vacuum your carpets and rugs, not only will you enhance the appearance of your apartment, but you will also actively contribute to creating a healthier living space by effectively eliminating hidden dirt and allergens.
Tip #4: Clean Windows and Mirrors
Windows and mirrors are often overlooked but play a significant role in the overall cleanliness and brightness of your apartment. Proper cleaning removes smudges, fingerprints, and grime, providing a clearer and more inviting living space. Here’s how to tackle this task:
Preparation: Remove any obstacles like curtains, blinds, or decorations that may interfere with your cleaning.
Dusting: Before applying any liquid cleaners, give the surface a quick dusting to remove any loose particles.
Spot Treatment: For stubborn stains or grime, use a sponge or soft cloth to gently scrub those areas before applying a cleaner.
Application: Use a high-quality glass cleaner and apply it either directly onto the glass or onto a microfiber cloth. Avoid using too much cleaner, as it can leave streaks.
Wipe Down: Use a clean, lint-free cloth or paper towel to thoroughly wipe the surface in a smooth, systematic manner, whether in gentle circles or firm, straight lines, in order to avoid any annoying streaks.
Corners and Edges: Use a Q-tip or a small brush to remove grime from the corners and edges where the glass meets the frame.
Inspect: Once you've wiped the glass clean, inspect it from multiple angles to ensure no streaks or spots are left behind.
Polish: For an extra shine, you can buff the surface with a dry cloth after the initial cleaning.
Regularly cleaning your windows and mirrors enhances not only the aesthetics, but also the overall atmosphere of your apartment, creating a more spacious and welcoming environment. and welcoming.
Also read, difference between cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting
Tip #5: Wipe Down Surfaces
Cleaning all surfaces is an essential part of any cleaning regimen, as these are the prime spots where dust, dirt, and germs accumulate. Using a multipurpose cleaner can simplify this process while ensuring effective cleaning. Here's how to go about it:
Preparation: Remove any objects from the surfaces you intend to clean, such as kitchen utensils, electronic devices, or decorative items.
Choosing the Cleaner: Opt for a multipurpose cleaner that is appropriate for the types of surfaces in your apartment. Always read the instructions to ensure it’s safe for the material you are cleaning.
Application: Spray the cleaner either directly onto the surface or onto a cloth, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the delicacy of the surface.
Scrubbing: For stubborn stains or built-up grime, use a soft scrubbing brush or sponge to gently scrub the surface.
Wiping: Use a microfiber or other lint-free cloth to wipe down the surfaces in straight lines or in a 'S' pattern to avoid streaking.
High-Touch Areas: Pay special attention to high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and appliance handles. These areas should be disinfected as they are hot spots for germs.
Rinse and Repeat: After using the cleaner, it is recommended to wipe down surfaces that come into contact with food or sensitive items with a cloth dampened in water. This will ensure that any residue is effectively removed.
Drying: After cleaning, make sure to use a dry cloth to wipe down surfaces, especially on stainless steel appliances or glass tables, in order to avoid water spots or mineral buildup.
By taking the time to thoroughly wipe down all hard surfaces, you’ll be contributing to a cleaner, healthier, and more pleasant living environment.
Tip #6: Clean Kitchen and Bathroom
The kitchen and bathroom are the two most frequently used areas in any home, and they also tend to harbor the most germs. Therefore, it's crucial to give them special attention during your cleaning routine. Here's how to tackle each:
Kitchen:
Appliances: Wipe down all exterior surfaces of appliances like the refrigerator, oven, and microwave. Remember to include control knobs and handles.
Sink: Use a scrubber and a dedicated cleaner to clean the sink, paying attention to the faucet and drain areas where grime often collects.
Countertops and Tables: Utilize a multipurpose cleaner to wipe down all hard surfaces.
Floor: After all other cleaning is done, mop the kitchen floor using an appropriate floor cleaner.
Waste Disposal: Empty the trash and clean the trash can to eliminate odors.
Bathroom:
Toilet: Use a restroom cleaner and scrub with a toilet brush. Wipe the outer parts with disinfectant wipes or spray, including the flush handle.
Shower and Tub: Use a bathroom multipurpose for soap scum and water spots. Scrub tiles, glass, and fixtures.
Sink and Counter: Use a bathroom cleaner or multipurpose cleaner to wipe down the sink, faucet, and countertop.
Mirrors: Clean with glass cleaner or a vinegar-water solution for a streak-free shine.
High-Touch Areas: Disinfect doorknobs, light switches, and other frequently touched surfaces.
Floor: Once all other cleaning tasks are complete, mop the floor with an appropriate bathroom floor cleaner.
Refresh: Replace or clean bath mats, and consider adding a fresh scent through air fresheners or essential oils.
To avoid water spots or mineral buildup, it is important to use a dry cloth to wipe down surfaces after cleaning. This is particularly important for surfaces such as stainless steel appliances or glass tables.
Tip #7: Cleaning Floors of the Room
Floors are the foundation of any home and therefore require regular cleaning to look their best. Sweeping and mopping are essential tasks that, when done thoroughly, make a substantial difference in the overall cleanliness of your living space. Here's a detailed guide on how to properly clean your non-carpeted floors:
Preparation: Remove any furniture or obstacles that might get in the way of your cleaning. This will give you full access to the entire floor area, including corners.
Sweeping: Start by sweeping the entire floor area with a good-quality broom. Focus on corners, edges, and under furniture, as these areas often collect the most dust and debris.
Spot Cleaning: Before you begin mopping, spot-clean any sticky or heavily-soiled areas with a damp cloth or sponge.
Mop Selection: Choose a mop that's suitable for your floor type. Microfiber mops are generally effective and versatile, ideal for most hard flooring surfaces.
Cleaning Solution: Fill your mop bucket with a cleaner appropriate for your flooring material. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for diluting the cleaning solution.
Mopping Technique: Start mopping from one corner of the room and work your way backward towards the entrance, ensuring that you cover all areas. Use a figure-eight motion for the best results.
Corners and Edges: Use a smaller cleaning brush or cloth to scrub corners and edges where the mop might not reach.
Rinsing: If your cleaner requires it, go over the floor again with clean water to remove any cleaning solution residue.
Drying: Use a dry microfiber cloth or towel to go over the floor, or allow it to air-dry if it’s safe and practical for your floor type.
Furniture Replacement: Once the floor is dry, carefully replace any furniture you moved, preferably using felt pads under legs to prevent scratches.
Enhancing the cleanliness and aesthetics of your entire home can be achieved by focusing on the care of your non-carpeted floors. By diligently sweeping and mopping, you not only elevate the overall appearance but also establish an atmosphere that is both cozy and inviting.
Tip #8: Clean Garbage
Managing waste is a critical aspect of maintaining a clean and hygienic living space. Emptying garbage cans and replacing their liners is a straightforward but impactful step in your cleaning routine. Here's how to handle it comprehensively:
Gather Supplies: Make sure you have garbage bags, rubber gloves, and any necessary cleaning agents before starting.
Empty Cans: Starting with the kitchen, move through each room emptying all garbage cans into a larger trash bag.
Inspect: Check the inside of the cans for any residue or liquid at the bottom. If you find any, now is a good time to clean it out.
Disinfect: Spray the inside and outside of each can with a disinfectant spray or a multi-purpose cleaner, especially around the lid and handle areas which are touched frequently.
Wipe Down: Use a sponge or cloth outside wipe the insides and outsides of the cans. Make sure they are clean and free from any sticky residues.
Dry: If you've used liquid cleaners, allow the garbage cans to air dry or wipe them down with a dry cloth.
Insert New Liners: Place a fresh garbage bag liner in each can. Make sure the liner fits well and doesn’t slip down when filled.
Deodorize: To keep unpleasant smells at bay, you can place a small amount of baking soda or a deodorizer at the bottom of the new liner.
Replace Cans: Put all the garbage cans back in their respective locations around your home.
By regularly attending to your garbage cans, you not only eliminate odors and unsightly waste but also contribute to the overall cleanliness and hygiene of your living space.
Also read, how to deep clean your home?
Tip #9: Sanitize High-Touch Surfaces
In the current environment, it's crucial to maintain a clean and sanitized living space. Focus on sanitizing high-touch surfaces to reduce the spread of germs and maintain a healthy environment. Here's how to do it:
Identify High-Touch Surfaces: Identify areas in your apartment that are frequently touched by multiple people. These may include doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and faucet handles.
Choose an Effective Disinfectant: Select a disinfectant that is approved for use against viruses and bacteria. Ensure it's suitable for the materials you'll be cleaning.
Wear Gloves: Put on disposable gloves to protect your hands while handling cleaning agents.
Apply Disinfectant: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to apply the disinfectant to the high-touch surfaces. Be thorough but avoid oversaturating the area.
Wait for Contact Time: Disinfectants often require a specific contact time to effectively kill germs. Check the label for instructions and let the disinfectant sit for the recommended duration.
Wipe Down Surfaces: After the contact time has passed, use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe down the surfaces. Pay extra attention to corners and edges.
Dispose of Gloves and Cleaning Materials: Safely dispose of the gloves and any used cleaning materials in a trash bag. Tie it securely and place it in your outdoor garbage bin.
Wash Your Hands: After completing this step, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to ensure you're also free from any potential contaminants.
By regularly sanitizing high-touch surfaces, you'll help maintain a clean and safe living space, which is especially important for health and well-being.
Tip #10: Final Touches
The final touches in your cleaning routine provide the satisfying finishing flourish that makes your home truly inviting. While the bulk of the cleaning is done, it’s these little details that truly make the difference. Here’s how to execute the final touches effectively:
Item Replacement: Begin by placing back all the items you had removed during your initial decluttering phase. Ensure they are clean and in good condition before returning them to their spots.
Decor and Personal Items: If you have decorative pieces like photo frames, vases, or ornaments, make sure they are dust-free and placed neatly.
Smell Test: Consider lightly spraying a room freshener or lighting a scented candle to add a pleasant aroma to your living space.
Pet Areas: If you have pets, make sure their living spaces are also clean. Refill water bowls and shake out any pet beds or cushions.
Adjust Lighting: Turn off any unnecessary lights and open the blinds or curtains to let natural light fill the room. This adds a cheerful ambiance to your home.
By paying attention to these final details, you will not only finish your cleaning task, but also enhance your home with an additional layer of comfort and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s the cherry on top of your hard work.
How Amenify can Help in Cleaning Your Apartment?
Amenify is a cleaning service leader, having provided assistance to over 2 million apartments and boasting 15000 and counting 5-star ratings. We can assist in cleaning your apartment by providing professional and reliable apartment cleaning services. Our experienced cleaners will ensure that your apartment is spotless and well-maintained, giving you a clean and comfortable living space. With Amenify, you can enjoy a hassle-free cleaning experience and come home to a pristine environment.
FAQs of How to Clean Apartment
-
The fastest way to clean a dirty apartment is to focus on the essentials. Start by decluttering and picking up items from surfaces. Next, tackle high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathroom, swiftly wiping down surfaces, appliances, and fixtures. Use multipurpose cleaning products for efficiency. Vacuum or sweep floors and mop as needed. Prioritize visible dirt and stains, leaving deeper cleaning for later. This quick cleaning routine can significantly improve the apartment's appearance in a short time.
-
Cleaning an apartment efficiently involves a strategic approach. Start by decluttering and quickly tidying up, putting items back in their designated places. Prioritize high-traffic areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and living room. Wipe down surfaces, appliances, and fixtures using multipurpose cleaning products. Vacuum or sweep the floors, focusing on visible dirt and debris. Spot-clean any stains or spills you encounter. However, in a 30-minute cleaning session, it's best to avoid deep cleaning tasks and concentrate on making the most noticeable improvements to maintain a tidy living space.
-
The frequency of mopping your apartment depends on factors like foot traffic and personal preference. Generally, once a week is suitable for most apartments. However, high-traffic areas may need more frequent mopping, while areas with less use can be done less often, such as every two weeks or as needed.
-
The 20-minute cleaning rule is a time management strategy where you dedicate 20 minutes to cleaning or decluttering a specific area of your home. It helps maintain a tidy living space without feeling overwhelmed by the task. Set a timer, focus on the task, and stop when the timer goes off, making cleaning more manageable and less daunting.
