Clean Smarter, Not Harder: Hacks To Make Deep Cleaning Less Of A Chore

Deep cleaning your home is essential not just for maintaining the look and feel of your space, but also for keeping the place you live tidy and healthy. It may seem like an arduous task to thoroughly clean your home regularly, but using tricks and hacks can help make the cleaning process easier and faster. These hacks can also help you clean your home more effectively and keep it looking nice for longer periods of time.

When cleaning, it’s vital to break down the big task of deep cleaning into smaller, more manageable tasks. This will help you focus on one room at a time and prevent feeling overwhelmed. With these tricks and hacks, you can ensure your home is always spic and span.

Cleaning walls and wallpaper

No one wants their walls to have fingerprints, scuffs, and mysterious marks. The best way to deep clean walls and wallpaper is to use a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Be sure to use a damp rag, and don’t scrub hard, as this could damage the wall.

For tougher spots, a gentle solution of one teaspoon of mild liquid dishwashing detergent in a bucket of warm water can be used. For walls with a glossy finish, use a sponge with more pressure and scrub gently. If wallpaper is present, use a dry cloth to remove any dirt or dust before cleaning.

Dirt-free window blinds

Cleaning window blinds can be a daunting task, especially if you want to get each slat, but it can be a breeze with the proper technique and tools. Among the best ways to deep clean window blinds is by wrapping a towel between metal tongs.

By using metal tongs, you can get both sides of each slat in one go. To do this efficiently, start by opening all the blinds, then use a vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dust and dirt. Take your metal tongs and fold a cloth in between them to create a makeshift cleaning brush.

Easy vinyl floor cleaning

Cleaning vinyl floors can be a real challenge. With the right products and some extra cleaning power, it’s not impossible. The first step is to prepare a cleaning solution of water and vinegar. Then, put a few drops of liquid dishwashing soap into the mixture. This will help dissolve grime and other residues.

Once the mixture is ready, use a mop to spread it evenly. Leave it for a few minutes to work its magic, then use a soft cloth or sponge to clean the floors. Finish the job with a dry mop, and now you have fresh-smelling vinyl floors.

Long-lasting wood furniture 

Wood furniture can be a great addition to any home. However, wood furniture needs to be well taken care of to stay in its best condition. Cleaning and polishing are two of the essential steps in wood furniture maintenance. Be sure to use a clean, soft cloth to dust your furniture.

Wipe down your furniture with a cloth dampened with soapy water. This’ll remove dust and dirt that have accumulated on your furniture’s surface. After cleaning, use an all-natural polish on your furniture to give it a protected, glossy look. This will help to prevent scratches. 

Clean the couch 

Having pets and kids at home can be both fun and challenging. Your couch can quickly get dirty due to everyday use by rambunctious young ones and four-legged friends. Vacuum your couch regularly with a crevice attachment to remove dirt, pet hair, and debris.

For a deeper clean, a solution of white vinegar and water—in equal parts—should do the trick. Put a clean fabric in the solution and wring it out. Use the cloth to rub away any stubborn stains or dirt spots on your couch. 

Clean the cleaning supplies

Vacuum cleaners are essential for deep cleaning, so it’s crucial that you maintain and clean the filters. Cleaning these filters is a simple task, but it can make a massive difference in the performance and extends the life of your vacuum cleaner.

Cleaning the filter helps improve suction, and reduce dust, allergens, and odors. For this hack, take out the filter and clean it with a wet cloth and allow it to air dry before installing it back into the vacuum cleaner. It’s as simple as that!

Refresh old rugs and carpets

Rugs can be the centerpiece of any room, which is why it’s important to keep them looking fresh. A great, budget-friendly way to deep clean your carpets and rugs is to use baking soda. Baking soda is a natural, non-toxic cleaning agent that lightly scrubs away dirt and odors from carpets and rugs.

All you have to do is add baking soda to the carpet. Leave it for a few hours before vacuuming it away. This will give your carpets and rugs a deep clean and refresh it without the use of harsh chemicals.

Spotless hardwood floors

Cleaning hardwood floors is a great way to keep them looking beautiful for years to come. Vacuuming your hardwood floors regularly will remove dirt, dust, and debris. Use a soft brush attachment, as any other tool may scratch the surface of the wood.

If you use a soft broom, sweep in a side-to-side motion rather than pushing the dirt away. When cleaning with a damp mop, avoid using too much water, or you may damage the wood. If using a store-bought cleaner, make sure it is specifically made for hardwood floors.

Don’t ignore baseboards

Baseboards are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning, but they can be a breeding ground for dust, dirt, and allergens. For a deep clean that will remove built-up grime, start by vacuuming the baseboards to remove any visible dust.

Scrub the remaining debris with a damp cloth or mop. Finally, use a cleaning solution to disinfect the baseboards and help prevent further grime buildup. With a little bit of regular maintenance and a deep clean every so often, your baseboards will stay clean and inviting.

Safely clean marble counters 

With the right cleaning materials, it is possible to make your marble countertop look like new. The best option to do this is to use mild dishwashing soap and a soft sponge. This will avoid damaging the delicate surface while still efficiently removing dirt and grime.

Also, avoid using harsh abrasive cleaners, as this can easily scratch the countertop. To keep your marble counters looking their best, rinse them off after using dish soap, and always use a clean, soft sponge when wiping down the counter.

Wipe that leather furniture 

Clean leather furniture regularly to ensure its longevity and keep it looking its best. A deep cleanse may help remove scratches, scuffs, and stains that routine cleaning can’t get out. Rubbing alcohol is an effective way to deep clean leather furniture, and shoe polish can help to fix minor scratches, scuffs, and stains.

Begin by cleaning the leather with a soft cloth, then use either rubbing alcohol or shoe polish, depending on the severity of the scratches or stains. Rubbing alcohol may remove deep-seated dirt, while shoe polish can help to fix minor scratches. Use a leather conditioner to moisturize the leather and protect it from future damage.

Shining granite topper 

Granite countertops can be a great addition to any kitchen. However, if you don’t take the time to clean them deeply, they can start to look dull and dirty. One great way to clean your granite countertop is to use cooking oil on a soft cleaning cloth.

Dirt and grime can hide in plain sight on granite countertops. To clean it, simply apply a small amount of cooking oil onto the cloth and wipe it across the countertop. Afterward, run a damp cloth over the surface to remove the excess cooking oil.

Old but shiny copper

Cleaning and caring for copper utensils are essential to maintain their shine and longevity. To begin, combine 1/4 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of salt, and vinegar to make a thick paste. Use a soft fabric to rub this paste on the surface of the copper utensil.

Be gentle and use small, circular motions to buff the copper until it shines. Rinse off the paste and dry the item with a soft cloth. Use a mixture of salt, flour, and lemon juice for a natural polishing solution. For stubborn tarnish, you can try a commercial copper cleaner readily available in stores.

Grime-free oven 

Deep cleaning an oven can be a tedious task, but it can be easily done using baking soda and vinegar. Both of these ingredients are readily available and safe to use. Start by removing the racks, as well as any debris or residue. Mix equal parts of baking soda and water together.

Spread the mixture over the interior of the oven. Let the mixture sit overnight. In the morning, spray vinegar over the baking soda to create a foam. Use a damp cloth or scrub brush to scrub the baking soda and grime away. 

Sanitize the dishwasher 

Regular deep cleaning of your dishwasher is essential to keep it running efficiently and free from buildup. A simple and effective way to do this is by pouring one cup of white vinegar into a dishwasher-safe mug and running a hot cycle to sanitize it. The vinegar’s acidity helps to cut through the accumulated grease.

It also helps to deodorize the dishwasher, giving your kitchen a pleasant, fresh scent. After the cycle is complete, wipe down the dishwasher’s interior with a soft cloth to help remove any remaining buildup. Let your dishwasher do all the work when it comes to cleaning this appliance.

Deep wash the pillows 

Pillows are often ignored and left to accumulate dust and dirt, which can lead to allergies and other health problems. Washing your pillows in a washing machine can help to remove these pollutants and help to keep your pillows healthy and free of allergens.

Start by removing the pillowcases and any other covers before placing the pillows in the washing machine. Add a mild detergent and set the machine to wash on a gentle cycle. Either air dry the pillows or use a tumble dryer on low heat.

Restore silver serveware

Restoring antique and vintage silver serveware can be tricky. But there’s a simple way you can do it with just a few ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Get warm water, aluminum foil, and baking soda, and create a chemical reaction that will restore your serveware to its original luster.

Line a bowl with aluminum foil and fill it with warm water to submerge the serveware. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda into the water, stirring until it has dissolved. Place the serveware into the bowl and let it soak for a few minutes. The baking soda and foil will interact with the silver.

Vinegar for wood cabinets

Wood cabinets can bring life to any room, but they can quickly become grimy and dirty. Cleaning them can be a tedious task, but fortunately, a simple solution exists—vinegar. Vinegar is an effective and natural way to clean wood cabinets. Simply mix one part vinegar and one part water.

Wet a soft cloth in the solution and wipe the cabinets. For hard stains, you may use a stronger solution of one part vinegar to two parts water. Always use a damp cloth and not a wet one to avoid damaging the wood. After wiping the cabinets, dry them off with a clean cloth. 

Deep clean glass stovetop 

A sparkling clean glass stovetop can be a beautiful centerpiece to your kitchen, and cleaning it every few months will keep it looking its best. One simple, cost-effective way to deep clean a glass stovetop is to use baking soda and a warm, damp towel.

Sprinkle a good layer of baking soda all over the stovetop. Get a damp towel and use it to rub the baking soda all over the surface. Once the baking soda has been rubbed in all directions, use the damp towel to wipe it down. The baking soda will lift grease and stuck-on food particles.

Splatter-free microwave

No kitchen is complete without a microwave. However, after repeated use, the inside of your microwave can become stained and discolored. To ensure the cleanliness of your splatter-free and spill-free microwave, you can use hot lemon water or baking soda.

Hot lemon water can be a natural remedy to remove stubborn stains and greases, while baking soda may also be used to effectively remove odors and grime. Put some lemon water in a mug and heat it. Both of these ingredients are excellent natural cleaners and can help to keep your microwave clean and hygienic. 

Freshen up the coffee maker

A clean coffee maker is essential for brewing the perfect cup of coffee. Deep cleaning your coffee maker regularly is the best way to ensure that you can enjoy the taste of your coffee every time you make it. Disassemble the coffee maker and clean the pieces individually. Make sure to remove all coffee residues.

Remove mineral build-ups with a damp cloth or by soaking in vinegar and water. Clean all internal components, such as the filter, brew basket, and carafe, using a damp cloth dipped in mild detergent. Run two or three cycles of water and vinegar to clean the internal parts of the coffee maker.

Wash the washing machine

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your washing machine in good condition and ensuring your laundry comes out clean. A simple option to do this is by running an occasional empty cycle with hot water and vinegar. This helps remove dirt and grime and prevents the buildup of limescale and mold.

Hot water helps dissolve detergent, grease, and other dirt residues, while vinegar helps remove soil and odors. Simply add two cups of white vinegar to the machine and run a hot cycle to clean it. For optimal results, consider doing this every few months.

Clean stovetop

Keeping your gas stovetop clean is important for its longevity and performance. One of the efficient options to do this is by using a non-toxic degreaser, which will clean your stovetop without any harsh chemicals. Unplug your gas stove and turn off the gas supply.

Sprinkle a generous amount of the non-toxic degreaser on the gas stovetop. Let the degreaser sit for five minutes to allow it to penetrate the grease, dirt, and grime. Using a non-abrasive cloth, scrub the degreaser into the gas stovetop.

Clean a burnt pan 

If you have a burnt pan that looks like it’s beyond saving, never fear! Heat and vinegar have you covered. Pour a diluted vinegar solution on the stovetop and allow it to reach a boil. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat to a simmer for 30-60 minutes.

The heat will break down the charred pieces of food, and the vinegar will help to dissolve them. Once the solution is done boiling, let the pan cool down before scrubbing it clean with a sponge or brush. Add more vinegar if necessary, and you should be able to get the pan looking like new!

Stain-free laminated countertops 

Laminated countertops are an affordable and stylish way to give a kitchen or bathroom a much-needed facelift. Even if you don’t clean them often, don’t ignore them entirely. You should still clean laminated countertops to keep them looking their best. The good news is the supplies needed to clean are already in your kitchen or bathroom.

Use a non-abrasive brush/sponge, water, dish soap, white vinegar, and baking soda. For tougher spots and stains, use a liquid cleanser made explicitly for laminated surfaces. With regular cleaning, your laminated countertop will stay looking new for years to come.

Simple tile floor cleaning 

Tile floors are an attractive and practical addition to any home, but they also require regular maintenance and cleaning. To keep your tiles looking clean and new, one of the best cleaning solutions is a combination of hot water and detergent. Begin by sweeping and vacuuming the floors to remove any dirt or debris.

Then mix hot water and detergent and use a mop to clean the tiles thoroughly. A hydrogen peroxide-soaked cloth will give the tiles a deep clean. The hydrogen peroxide helps to sanitize the tiles and remove any stubborn stains. Alternatively, you can also use club soda and water to clean the tiles.

Remove the lint

Dryer lint can cause several problems, ranging from blockages in the water pump (if you have one with a condenser) to even fires. As such, it is essential to regularly check and remove lint from the lint filter, lint trap, and the entire ventilation system.

To do this, simply unplug the dryer and remove the back panel of the dryer. Next, use a vacuum cleaner to remove all accumulation of lint. Finally, if possible, take the dryer outside and vacuum it as well. This will help prevent further dryer lint buildup and ensure that your machine runs smoothly.

Scum-free shower doors 

Keeping shower doors clean and free of unsightly buildup can often be a challenge, though. Luckily, a mixture of borax and vinegar can make them shine again. Borax acts as an abrasive to scrub dirt and grime, while vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant against bacteria.

All you have to do is combine equal parts borax and white vinegar and use a sponge or soft cloth to scrub the shower doors. Rinse them off with warm water and a squeegee, and your shower doors will be sparkling clean. This is an easy and cost-effective solution to keep your shower doors looking their best.

Clean the iron plate

Cleaning your iron with vinegar and salt is an inexpensive and natural way to keep your iron free of rust and grime. This method is particularly effective on older irons that are prone to rust buildup. To use vinegar and salt, start by mixing one part vinegar with three parts salt to form a paste.

Spread the paste over the iron’s surface and let it sit for one hour. Then, wipe the paste off with a damp cloth and rinse the iron with clean water. Finally, dry the iron with a towel and use it as usual.

Care for leather shoes and bags 

If you’re a fan of leather goods, you know how important it is to care for them. No matter how well they were made, they’ll start to wear down after a while. To keep them looking good, start by mixing a solution of warm water and dish soap in a bowl.

Then wet a soft cloth into the solution and wring out the excess water before wiping it on the exterior surfaces of your leather shoes or bags. Next, condition your shoes or bags with linseed oil. This will help keep them supple and ready for another day.

Disinfect the humidifier 

If you want to disinfect your humidifier, one of the best things you can do is use white vinegar. White vinegar proves to be a natural disinfectant and will kill any mold, mildew, or bacteria that may be growing in your humidifier.

Add a small cup of white vinegar—either just vinegar or a diluted solution for a less abrasive clean—to the water reservoir and run the humidifier for 1 hour. After 1 hour, simply empty the water reservoir and rinse it out.

Remove tile grout

Removing tile grout doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right materials and a few simple steps, you can quickly and easily clean away the unsightly discoloration that can build up in grout lines. One of the best solutions is Oxygen-based bleach, a great DIY solution for removing dirt and grime.

Simply mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide with 2 parts of an oxygenated powder product, such as Oxyclean. Then, use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the grout lines with the mixture. After scrubbing, clean the area with a damp cloth and let the mixture sit for a few minutes before rinsing with water. 

Sanitize the yoga mat

Yoga mats are the perfect place to work out, but as you sweat and move, mats can accumulate germs and bacteria. To prevent any infection or health issues related to bacteria and germs, it is vital to sanitize your yoga mat regularly.

One of the best options to sanitize your yoga mat is to use vinegar, tea tree oil, and rubbing alcohol. Start by adding two tablespoons of vinegar to a quart of warm water. Spray your yoga mat with the solution and wipe it down.

Shower head cleaning

Have you ever wondered how to properly clean your shower heads? Well, here is a super simple method to do just that! All you need is four cups of white vinegar, a Ziploc bag, and a little bit of elbow grease. Simply pour the four cups of white vinegar into the Ziploc bag.

Securely close it, and then attach it to the head of the shower. Make sure the vinegar covers the head and the holes of the showerhead. Let it sit for roughly an hour, and then take it off. Once you have removed the Ziploc bag, use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the shower head.

Clean windows for curb appeal

Having clean windows can instantly give your home a facelift and add to its curb appeal. Clean windows can significantly improve the architectural and design features of your house and make it shine. Clean windows provide a clear view of the outdoor landscape, allowing natural light to peek in.

Taking a few minutes to give your windows a thorough cleaning will transform your home and make it look new again. It’s a simple process that can work wonders on your home, and if you have the right supplies, it won’t take long, either.

Scrub the shower curtain 

If you want to keep your shower looking clean and brand new, then there are some simple things to keep it sparkly. One of these is scrubbing the shower curtain using borax, white vinegar, and dish soap. This simple combination allows you to easily clean the curtain and get rid of any mold or mildew.

Combine one cup of borax, one cup of white vinegar, and one spoon of dish soap in a bucket. Dampen a cloth with the solution and scrub the curtain, paying particular attention to areas that may have more buildup. Finally, rinse with clean water and allow the curtain to dry before using it again. 

Scrub the brick surface

Cleaning exposed bricks can be a bit more involved than it may seem. But if you want to keep your home looking neat and clean, this is an important step to take. First of all, you need to find what type of brick you have.

Water and a soft brush work on natural stone, but painted or stained stones need a special cleaner that is designed for this type of material. Regardless of the material, start by washing off any dirt with warm water and soap using a sponge or cloth. 

Sparkling brass fixtures 

Adding sparkling brass fixtures to your home can be a great way to add an eye-catching and stylish element to any room. One way to keep your fixtures looking great is to use lemon or tomato juice. Both have natural acids that can remove dirt and grime from the surfaces and make the fixtures shine.

Pour a good amount of either juice onto a soft cloth and rub the solution onto the brass. Let the juice sit for a few minutes, and then take off with a damp fabric. You can also use mild wax afterward to protect the surface. Enjoy your sparkling and gorgeous brass fixtures!

Sweep the patio

Sweeping the patio surface will remove loose dirt, debris, and leaves. It also helps loosen stubborn dirt and grime so that it can be washed away with a hose or pressure washer. If you have a wooden patio, it should be swept every few weeks to keep it looking its best.

In addition to sweeping the patio floor, you should also give your patio furniture a good cleaning. For wooden or plastic furniture, use a damp cloth and mild detergent. For metal furniture, use a mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush. Rinse everything off with clean water to prevent streaking.

Refresh patio furniture 

Patio furniture made of wicker or plastic is easy to clean, but it can get dirty without you realizing it. The furniture may even develop some mold if left wet and dirty. You can refresh your patio furniture using soap and a brush to remove mildew and dirt.

Simply dip the brush in soap and scrub away at any stains or dirt that may be on your patio furniture. You’ll want to make sure that you don’t use too much water when cleaning with the brush; otherwise, the furniture will become soaked and will end up taking too long to dry.

Degrease lawn mower engine

Cleaning the mower is easy and will keep your lawnmower working longer. Unplug the mower from the engine. Add some degreaser on the engine to break down the buildup. Use a long-handled brush or stiff wire brush to gently scrub dirt and grass from the underside of the mower deck, undercarriage, and blade housing.

You can use a hose to clean the engine, but don’t spray water to remove decaying grass or leaves. Be careful not to damage any moving parts when cleaning around them. Rinse off all debris in clean water, then pour some oil into the mower engine to get it working again. 

Wash outdoor cushions

To keep your outdoor patio cushions looking their best, there are simple steps you can take to ensure they are not full of dust and grime. Wash your cushions using an adjustable hose sprayer, hard-bristle brush, dish detergent, and borax. The pressure hose will ensure all the outside dirt is removed.

Clean the fabric itself with a mild soap and water solution (we recommend Dawn), then dry thoroughly with a soft cloth. Allow your cushions to air-dry for at least 24 hours before storing them away for winter or putting them out again on the furniture. 

No more greasy grill

Don’t let a greasy or rusty grill ruin your perfect cookout. Clean it using a degreaser and soapy water. Lastly, use a stainless-steel cleaner to shine up the grill exterior. You can also apply metal polish to keep the metal looking brand new.

To clean the greasy grates, you may dip them in a solution of soap and warm water. This will break down the grease and help you scrub the grime. Use a soft fabric to dry the grates before putting them back in the grill. 

Clean the car 

Keeping your car clean is not only about aesthetic appeal, but it’s a matter of health, especially if you use it regularly. Plus, cleaning your car regularly helps keep it in good working order, and will help you avoid costly repair bills in the future.

In addition to that, a clean car boosts its value and makes you feel better about driving it. You don’t want to see any dirty spots on your car interior! Make sure you remove dirt, crumbs, and spills from crevices. You may have to clean your car often if you have kids/pets.

Service your AC

AC cleaning and servicing at home is cost-efficient. The AC unit is responsible for the cooling of your home, but it gets dirty and clogged up over time. This can lead to inefficient cooling, which is why it’s important to have it serviced regularly.

If you don’t maintain your AC unit properly, it can cause unnecessary damage and expenses down the road. Clean the filters with a pressure hose and dry them. Also, check for any lost parts so that the system doesn’t make any noise. 

Deodorize the mattress 

Deodorizing a mattress is an effective way to remove bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens that may be causing problems. To do this, you’ll need baking soda and a vacuum cleaner. For effective cleaning, you should clean your mattress twice a year.

Sprinkle baking soda on the entire mattress surface, and you can use baking soda paste with water for spot-treating stains. Let the mix sit for a while, and then use a vacuum cleaner to remove the baking soda. Let the mattress air dry. 

Unclogged, clean drains

Baking soda and vinegar is an effective DIY solution for unclogging and cleaning drains. To start, pour a generous amount of baking soda into the drain, then add a cup of white vinegar. Allow the mix to sit for 15-20 minutes while it fizzes and breaks down the clog.

Once the fizzing stops, pour a pot of boiling water down the drain. This will help to flush away any loosened particles. You can also use baking soda with lemon or salt, or cream of tartar for the same cleaning effect.

Rust-free garden tools 

The most crucial thing is to take good care of your tools. It’s not just about how they look; maintaining them will help them last for a long time. The first step is to clean the garden tools by using some soap and water. After that, dry them off with a rag.

If you want to make sure that your garden tools don’t rust, then use a dry cloth to wipe off any remaining dirt on them. The second step is to ensure that all the parts are working properly and that nothing is broken. If there are any broken pieces, replace them immediately!

Umbrella cleaning schedule

If you have a large outdoor umbrella on your patio, it will regularly come in contact with dead leaves, dust, and rain. This will need cleaning intervention to ensure the umbrella material does not deteriorate quicker than expected. Take it off the pole for effective cleaning.

Clean it with some supplies like a tarp to lay down the umbrella fabric and dish soap, vinegar, and a brush to scrub. Clear the soap residue using a pressure hose. Let the umbrella fabric dry before installing it on the pole again. 

Tidy up the fireplace 

Tidying up your fireplace in preparation for winter is a great option to keep your home safe and warm. Start by removing leftover wood and ashes. This will help prevent smoke and fumes from entering your home and make sure the fireplace is safe to use.

Then, scrub the bricks with a solution of vinegar and warm water. This will prevent soot and dirt buildup and keep the bricks looking great. Finally, don’t forget to clean your fireplace screen, grate, and tools. This will keep your fireplace looking nice and ensure everything is functioning correctly.