Pro Tips to Help Your Home Look Instantly Cleaner and Clutter-Free

It's a busy time of year.  You want a clean house, but you don't have time for a full deep-clean right now.  You want your house to look tidy and spacious, but you don't have time for a full declutter now, either.

Never fear, you can get a cleaner, more pleasant home in minutes, even if you can't find time to clean the baseboards or reorganize your pantry today.

Simply focus on the high-traffic, high-impact areas that make the most difference.  Clearing areas that are in constant view will give you the biggest reward.  Not only will you transform your home from chaotic to calm in a matter of minutes, but you'll also get a rush of endorphins as you finish the task.

Ready to start?

6 areas to tackle for quickest results

1.  Floors

Floors are the biggest surface in your home, so their impact is huge.  Do a quick sweep through the main living areas (don't forget the entry!) to pick up toys, shoes, clothing, sports equipment, etc.

Don't just transfer the pile somewhere else.  Clothes on the floor are probably dirty, so put them in the hamper.  Put shoes on a rack, and toys in a handy basket.*  Enlist family members to put away their backpacks, jackets. etc.  Unpack delivery boxes and put items where they belong.

* This blog is supported by readers, not ads!  If you purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission.

2.  The sofa

Restore visual harmony by fluffing cushions, arranging throw pillows, and folding blankets over the back or arm of the couch.  These small adjustments restore the focal point of your living area and make the entire space look tidier.

3.  Living room tables

After the sofa, tidy up the coffee and side tables.  Simply remove the things that don't belong there – dishes, mugs, paperwork, toys, pet items, garbage.  If you have the time, remove everything, dust the top surface of the furniture, and mindfully return just a few items.  Use some small baskets to organize drawers and shelves so you can put things away.

If you have more time and energy. you can do the same in your bedroom.

4.  Kitchen surfaces

The kitchen is a high-traffic area, so clearing your countertops is one of the best ways to make your home look cleaner.  Quickly remove everything, use an all-purpose spray cleanser, and return only the items you use every single day.  Be intentional about what goes back.

If you have a few extra minutes, also clear off the dining table and the refrigerator door.  You'll instantly calm your space.

5.  Beds

There's a reason Mom told you to make your bed – it's the visual anchor for the entire room.  Smooth sheets and blankets, fluff the pillows, and take a few moments to enjoy the tidiness.

6.  Bathroom countertop and mirror

Group loose bathroom items in some of those small baskets and give the counter a quick clean to make your space more pleasant.  And a cloudy, spattered mirror can make any bathroom seem dirty!  Use your all-purpose cleanser to make the glass shiny and streak-free, and you'll immediately brighten the room.  Finally, straighten the towels (or replace them with clean ones).

A bonus tip

One more tip makes any room more inviting while hiding minor dirt and dust, and it's simple.  Create warm pools of light instead of using harsh overhead lighting!  Make sure you've swapped bright bluish-white bulbs for softer, yellower ones, and use table lamps, wall sconces, and candles.  (Battery-powered are safe and look good too.)

These quick tips will help you get ready for company, but you should do them for yourself to gain the satisfaction they provide.  Enjoy your tidier, spacious rooms!

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