A Room-by-Room Guide: Best practices for cleaning each space in your home

Every room in our homes serves a distinct purpose and, as such, presents unique cleaning challenges. Each space requires a specialised touch, from the food residues in our kitchens to the product build-ups in our bathrooms. Furthermore, the furniture and appliances we use in these rooms differ significantly, each demanding specific care to maintain its function and prolong its life.

But fear not! By adopting a systematic approach to cleaning tailored to each room’s specific needs, we can ensure a cleaner, healthier living environment, streamline our efforts and make the task less daunting. Dive into this comprehensive guide, where we’ll explore the best practices for cleaning every nook and cranny of your beloved abode.

The Kitchen

Countertops

The kitchen countertop is the central hub for meal preps, making it prone to stains, crumbs, and bacteria. It’s essential to use the right disinfectants to eliminate harmful pathogens. Opt for a gentle, food-safe cleaner for daily wipe-downs. Consider a diluted bleach solution or disinfectant sprays for deeper cleans, ensuring you rinse the surface thoroughly afterwards to prevent any chemical ingestion later.

Appliances:

• Ovens: Accumulated grease and charred food can hamper your oven’s efficiency. Use a store-bought oven cleaner or a homemade baking soda and water paste, allowing it to sit overnight before scrubbing. Always ensure proper ventilation when cleaning.
• Refrigerators: Empty, wipe down with a mild detergent, and rinse each shelf and drawer. Vacuum the coils at the back or bottom of the fridge annually to maintain efficiency.
• Microwaves: A bowl of water with a slice of lemon, microwaved for five minutes, can help loosen grime and add a fresh scent. Wipe down the interior afterwards.

Floors:

Depending on your kitchen flooring, the cleaning approach varies.

• Tiles: Use a mixture of water and mild detergent, avoiding abrasive tools that can damage the grout.
• Hardwood: Opt for pH-neutral cleaners to avoid damaging the finish. Always mop with the grain.
• Linoleum: A mixture of vinegar and water works best, ensuring the floor is promptly dried to prevent water damage.

Sinks and Drains:

Regularly rinse your sink after use. For a deeper clean, baking soda and vinegar followed by boiling water can help prevent clogs and maintain shine. Consider a drain strainer to trap food particles.

Living Room & Common Areas

Start with a top-to-bottom approach, ensuring you’re not moving dust from higher shelves to cleaned lower surfaces. Microfiber cloths are invaluable, trapping more dust than traditional dusters and reducing allergens in the home.

Vacuuming your sofas and chairs can prevent dirt accumulation. For stains, use upholstery cleaner, testing on a small, inconspicuous area first. Consider professional cleaning annually, especially if you have pets or kids.

Always unplug before cleaning. Use a microfiber cloth to prevent scratching. A mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar, lightly dampening your cloth, can be effective for screens.

Regular vacuuming is key. For deep cleaning, consider renting a carpet cleaner or hiring professionals. Spot treat stains immediately to prevent permanent damage.

The Bathroom

An effective and hygienic cleaning routine involves gloves and a good-quality toilet brush. Use disinfectants, ensuring you reach under the rim. A mixture of vinegar and baking soda can be effective for tough stains.

Addressing mould, mildew, and soap scum is essential. A daily shower spray can reduce build-up. Consider a scrubbing brush with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water for deeper cleans. Keep the area well-ventilated to prevent mould.

For a streak-free shine, avoid soap-based cleaners on mirrors. A mix of equal parts water and white vinegar, followed by a microfiber cloth, works wonders. A general bathroom cleaner or baking soda paste can effectively remove toothpaste splatters and soap residues for sinks.

Mop with a disinfectant cleaner, especially focusing on areas near the toilet. For tile grout, a toothbrush with a bleach-based cleaner can help maintain its original colour.

The Bedroom

Regular washing, at least bi-weekly, is essential for hygiene. Use warm water and consider adding a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle for added freshness. Ensure thorough drying to prevent mould.

Vacuum your mattress every month. Spot-treat stains with a mix of liquid detergent and water, avoiding over-wetting. Consider a mattress protector to prevent future stains.

Emptying and vacuuming your closet seasonally can prevent dust and mould. Organise your clothing, ensuring adequate air circulation to prevent musty odours.

For clarity and improved indoor air quality, clean both inside and out. Use a mix of water and white vinegar, wiping down with a newspaper or a microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish.

The Home Office/Study Room

Your workspace reflects your mind. A cluttered desk often leads to a cluttered mind. Regularly organise your papers, stationery, and other tools. Wipe down the surface with a gentle cleaner to remove dust and grime, focusing on frequently touched areas like the keyboard or mouse.

Dust can impair the performance of your computer over time. Turn off and unplug your devices before cleaning. Use compressed air to blow out dust from keyboards and CPU vents. Wipe screens with a soft microfiber cloth, lightly dampened with water or a screen cleaner.

Dust accumulates on and between books, damaging their pages and bindings. Periodically remove books and dust the shelves. Clean books with a soft brush to avoid wear and tear. Consider reorganising them occasionally for a refreshing change and to inspect for any signs of mould or pests.

Laundry Room

Residue and detergent can build up over time, affecting performance. Run an empty hot cycle with two cups of white vinegar or a specialised washing machine cleaner. Remember to clean the detergent tray and rubber seals.

Lint is a significant fire hazard. After each cycle, make sure to consistently clear out the lint trap. At least once a year, check and clean the external vent and its ductwork, ensuring no obstructions.

Proper storage in the laundry room prevents accidents and ensures efficiency. Use labelled bins or shelves for detergents, fabric softeners, and other products. Keep any hazardous chemicals out of the reach of children and pets.

Outdoor Spaces

Weather conditions can wear down outdoor spaces. Begin by removing debris from wood decks, then scrub the surface using a gentle mixture of water and detergent. Consider resealing wood every couple of years. For stone patios, a gentle power wash can rejuvenate the look.

Regular cleaning ensures your grill’s longevity and better-tasting food. For charcoal grills, empty the coal tray and scrub the grates. Gas grills may need extensive cleaning, checking burners and ensuring even gas flow. Store in a dry place and cover to protect from weather conditions.

The art of maintaining a home is a continuous journey, and every space has its unique needs. By following this room-by-room approach, we can ensure a home that gleams with pride and resonates with health and harmony. Like any good habit, consistency is key. With regular care, the daunting task of cleaning becomes a series of small, manageable efforts. So, roll up those sleeves, embrace the routine, and revel in the serene beauty of your well-kept space.