In the last few months I have become obsessed with how clean my house is – I started with decluttering as it has helped my mental well being, and have since evolved into cleaning being my top priority. I never really learned to clean properly (that sounds so odd…but I didn’t) so it has been a real learning curve for me.
Seeing mess and clutter really messes with my mind – I can’t relax because all I can see are things to do. I have had to compromise and find what really works for me.
Routine
I work full time, drive over 50 miles a day to get to and from work, I blog and I make extra money. Add in some hobbies and cooking and there is hardly any time left for much else. I have finally found a cleaning routine that works for me – it is to clean the living room and kitchen every night, including vacuuming. The whole routine doesn’t take me more than 15 minutes and it means that when I go downstairs the next morning I already feel positive and raring to go. Everything else that needs to be cleaned has its own routine too.
A cleaning caddy
A cleaning caddy is a small basket that you can carry around with you – full of your cleaning products. You can pick them up for £2.50 in Wilkinsons and it is a great way to keep your cleaning supplies together. It means that you aren’t wandering back and forth, up and down stairs to get everything you need – it is with you all the time.
Micro fibre clothes
They aren’t expensive, but micro fibre clothes have been an eye opener for me. They are fantastic at cleaning, and you can even get micro fibre clothes for different cleaning tasks. Aldi sell different ones designed for grease, general use and mirrors or glass – at 99p for two. They can be put into a washing machine (with no fabric softener) and keep going for years.
Bicarbonate of soda
Bicarbonate of soda is a fantastic, cheap product that can do all sorts around your home. I use it regularly to remove product buildup in my hair, but it can also be used to get rid of nasty smells, unclog your drains and so much more. Satsuma Squeeze has more ideas of how to use bicarbonate of soda to clean.
Cheat
Cleaning isn’t a particularly fun chore, so I have given myself some leeway and I cheat. This summer I have used my tumble dryer and hardly put any clothes on the washing line. Yes, it has cost me money, but it has also saved me time. If there is a chore that you absolutely hate, look at ways to cheat! Perhaps you don’t need to iron every item of clothing you own.
Do you have any cleaning tips to share? I would love to hear them!
This is a collaborative post.
Angela says
I use bicarbonate of soda for loads in my house, especially cleaning the over. A lemon is great on the shower screen as well
Blackpepper1 says
Great tips. I find allot of items don’t actually need ironing.
Anrola (@anrola99) says
I have never owned an iron in my life, and we don’t have one now. (helps that hubby doesn’t even own a shirt I suppose).
I love microfibre cloths too, I use them for everything, and they are great for drying and getting a shine on things. I should hoover more – we have a black hall carpet and a white dog!