Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to clean your place in only an hour, instead of spending a whole weekend on it? Anyways, it is important to clean our homes properly and we are more than happy to tell you that cleaning faster doesn’t mean not doing a good job. In order to do that you will have to become familiar with the basics of speed cleaning. In this article we will share some tips and tricks, as well as a one-hour cleaning plan and some hacks to get the job done.

The basics of speed cleaning

Speed cleaning is a special technique that will help you tidy up before guests arrive or get a quick fix whenever you cannot stand the state of your house. However, it is important to understand that it is not a thorough cleaning method so don’t expect that your house will end up looking like you just did your deep cleaning.

Tidying is not cleaning
Cleaning a messy house will always take longer. It is very important to tidy before you start cleaning. Tidying deals with objects – tossing trash, purging clutter and organising. Cleaning is about removing dust, dirt, stains and grime. It covers surfaces like counters, bathtubs and floors. However, don’t spend hours tidying up. A regular daily routine of picking up trash and putting things away will make it easier to clean surfaces.
Task based cleaning
Usually cleaning tasks are room-based because this method has efficient and noticeable results. However, when cleaning fast is what you’re going for, you want to focus on a single task. Work your way through your entire place doing that task ( picking up trash, for example). When done, switch tasks and go through your house again.
Use the correct tools
Using lint-free cloths, for example, will help you dust and polish surfaces without leaving bits behind. You could use those for mirrors and other hard surfaces. A squeegee would work best for windows, and when it comes to floors – choose a good vacuum cleaner and leave the broom for outdoor sweeping. Make a list of all tools you will need to use and store them all in one place.

Here is the one-hour house cleaning plan

If you only have an hour and you want to clean up efficiently, follow this plan and complete as much as you can for the time given.

Clutter grab – 10 min
Instead of moving things as you clean, which will take you a lot more time, spend 10 minutes and remove items that are in the way. Cover all areas you plan on cleaning. Quickly declutter, take the trash out and put things that belong elsewhere in a bag or a box.
Kitchen – 10 min
Get rid of the dirty dishes first. Spray and wipe your counters and appliances. Scour your sink and scrub it if needed.
Bathroom – 5 min
Wipe all surfaces with a dry cloth. Cover counters, faucets and sinks, do the shower, all glass surfaces and the toilet with its seat. Spray those areas with a cleaning product and let them sit while applying toilet bowl cleaner or cleaning the bathroom floors. Don’t forget your mirror and the outside of your bathroom cupboards. Wipe the product off all areas and move to the next step.
Furniture – 10 min
Reduce the dust in your home by using a damp microfiber cloth all over your furniture. You will gather all the dust, then be able to wash it down the sink. If you want, go back and polish your furniture.
Vacuum – 10 min
Vacuum all hard floors and carpeted surfaces. Make sure you don’t rush this step. Slow, overlapping motion wall to wall will ensure great results.
Mop – 5 min
Mop once you have already vacuumed. You will be able to clean the floor properly, instead of turning dust into muddy streaks. Two buckets will help you clean faster and more efficiently. You can also use a no-rinse homemade floor cleaner.
Sheets and towels – 10 min
Once you are done with everything else, it is time to put fresh sheets on your bed and clean towels in the bathroom.

Quick hacks that will help:

Use a cleaning cassy – you will be able to fit everything you need in there and not waste any time looking for a product or a tool. Store your sponges, cleaning sprays, gloves, lint rollers, squeegees, microfiber cloths and a disinfectant and carry them around with you.
Treat spills as soon as possible – Try to avoid letting them become stains.
Simplify your decor – excessive amounts of decorations and objects will make it 10 times harder to clean. Take a minimalistic approach at home.
Use your vacuum for more – Vacuum cleaners can clean much more than floors. Use it on your upholstery, curtains and throw pillows. You will notice how much it helps reduce dust.
Clean your cleaning equipment regularly. Using clean tools will help you do a better job in less time.