Fake a Clean Home in 30 Minutes!

Unexpected guests coming over? Peep this cheater's guide to speed-cleaning.

 

1. DECLUTTER

Do a pass-through of key rooms, picking up clutter as you go. Forget about putting things in their proper places. Just collect any of the following and put in a closet:
  • Catalogs, bills, and newspapers
  • Pets’ toys
  • Handbags and shoes
  • Sports equipment
  • Stray DVDs

    Time: 4 minutes

    2. WIPE DOWN

    Slap on your gloves and carry all of these items in a small cleaning caddy so you can easily move from room to room.
    Spray an all-purpose cleaner on your kitchen countertop and wipe away grime with paper towels or a microfiber cloth.
    Remove fingerprints from stainless steel surfaces using a glass cleaner, specialty cleaner, or plain water and a cloth.
    Wipe down the dining table and other surfaces like a china cabinet or server (if you have hardwood, just remove dust with a damp rag or microfiber cloth).
    Spray the bathroom sink, vanity, and counters with an all-purpose disinfectant.
    Wipe down the outer edge of the tub (it’s something all guests will see) and pull the curtain or shower door closed.
    Clean the mirror with vinegar and wipe with newsprint (odd but it works). Paper towels leave a fuzzy residue.
    Spritz all outside surfaces of the toilet with disinfectant before moving inside. Wipe clean.
    Lift the toilet seat lid and spray cleaner on the top and bottom, then squeeze bowl cleaner under the rim or pour in a cup of cleaner. Use a toilet brush to scrub under the rim and inside of the bowl. Flush.

    Time: 10 minutes

    3. SWIFF

    pronunciation: ‘swiff
    function: verb
    1: the action of using a Swiffer
    2: a lifestyle choice for Nest editors

    Swiff your coffee table after spraying it with an all-purpose cleaner. Next, tackle the TV (including screen) and entertainment center and quickly swiff any frames and collectibles on display. Then, swiff the floors in the kitchen, living room, and bathroom—and finish up by defurring couches and chairs with a lint roller.

    Time: 5 minutes

    4. EMPTY

    Clear out the sink. This is self-explanatory. Just put dishes into the dishwasher.
    Empty the wastepaper basket in the bathroom.
    Take out the trash.

    Time: 2 minutes

    5. RESTOCK

    Put out fresh hand towels, a box of tissues, extra TP, air freshener, and hand soap.
    Do a chair count and haul out the extras.
    Replenish your table with fresh placemats if there are stains on the current set, or flip them over to the clean side.
    Fill the napkin holder.

    Time: 4 minutes

    6. DISPLAY

    Take out serving dishes and wine glasses (check for smudge spots) so they are within reach when guests arrive.
    Fluff and arrange wayward throw pillows and push in couch cushions that may be off-kilter.
    Make an instant centerpiece by throwing fruit or vegetables into a decorative bowl in the center of the dining table.
    Dim the lights and light candles. Nothing hides cleaning imperfections better.
    Put on your game face. People are at the door!

    Time: 4 minutes

    • by Alonna Friedman
    4/17/08

    See more: cleaning & organizing, Decor Tricks


    sparky88  0
    There is no way I could do those tasks in the amount of time alloted. It would take at least 1 1/2 hours at a minimum. Get real ladies!



    Koneko  0
    Naw, those would be perfectly do-able in that amount of time if you're just making stuff look clean, AND if you've got the routine memorized



    soontobelothamer  0
    It definitely depends on the size of your house. I have 3 floors with 4 bathrooms. There's no way I can clean 4 bathrooms in 10 minutes.



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