You want to keep your apartment sparkling clean, but sometimes it feels like an overwhelming task. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! In this article, we will guide you on how to clean your apartment like a pro and make the process easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a cleaning novice or a seasoned pro looking for some tips and tricks, we’ve got you covered. So grab your cleaning supplies and get ready to transform your apartment into a pristine oasis.
Cleaning Tools and Supplies
Gather the necessary tools
To clean your apartment like a pro, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. Some essential cleaning tools you should gather include a broom, dustpan, vacuum cleaner, mop, scrub brush, microfiber cloths, and gloves. Having these tools readily available will make your cleaning tasks much easier.
Stock up on cleaning supplies
In addition to the tools, it’s crucial to have a well-stocked supply of cleaning products. Some must-have cleaning supplies include all-purpose cleaner, window cleaner, disinfectant, toilet bowl cleaner, tile and grout cleaner, stainless steel cleaner, and floor cleaner. By having these supplies readily available, you’ll be prepared to tackle any cleaning task that comes your way.
Creating a Cleaning Schedule
Organize your tasks
Creating a cleaning schedule will help you stay organized and ensure that all areas of your apartment are regularly cleaned. Start by making a list of all the cleaning tasks you need to complete in each room. Then, break down those tasks into daily, weekly, and monthly schedules. By organizing your tasks, you’ll have a clear plan of action and won’t feel overwhelmed by trying to tackle everything at once.
Set a regular cleaning routine
Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining a clean apartment. Set aside specific days and times each week to dedicate to cleaning. This routine will help you stay on track and prevent dirt and clutter from piling up. Additionally, having a regular cleaning routine will make the task feel less daunting and more manageable.
Kitchen
Clean and sanitize countertops
Start by removing any items from your countertops and giving them a thorough wipe down. Use a disinfectant spray or a mixture of water and vinegar to sanitize the surfaces. Be sure to pay attention to any areas that may be prone to bacteria buildup, such as around the sink and stove.
Scrub the sink
The kitchen sink can harbor germs and food particles, so it’s important to give it a good scrub. Use a non-abrasive cleaner and a scrub brush to remove any stains or grime. Don’t forget to clean the faucet and handles as well.
Degrease the stove
Over time, grease and residue can build up on your stove, making it look dirty and potentially causing unpleasant odors. Use a degreasing cleaner and a scrub brush to remove any stuck-on grease. Wipe down the stovetop and control knobs thoroughly.
Clean the oven
Cleaning the oven may seem like a daunting task, but it’s essential to keep it clean for both hygiene and functionality. Start by removing any loose debris and racks. Use an oven cleaner or a paste made from baking soda and water to coat the interior surfaces. Let it sit for the recommended time and then scrub it clean. Don’t forget to clean the oven door, knobs, and handles as well.
Wipe down appliances
Appliances such as the refrigerator, microwave, and dishwasher also need to be cleaned regularly. Use a damp cloth or a mild cleaner to wipe down the exteriors of these appliances. Pay special attention to handles, buttons, and control panels.
Clean inside the refrigerator
To keep your refrigerator clean and hygienic, it’s important to regularly clean the interior. Remove all items from the fridge and dispose of anything that has expired or gone bad. Use a mixture of water and mild dish soap to wipe down the shelves, drawers, and interior surfaces. Don’t forget to clean the door seals as well.
Organize and clean out cabinets and pantry
Take the time to declutter and organize your kitchen cabinets and pantry. Remove any items that have expired or that you no longer need. Wipe down the shelves and surfaces with a mild cleaner. Consider using bins or organizers to keep things neat and easily accessible.
Bathroom
Clean and disinfect the toilet
Start by applying a toilet bowl cleaner to the inside of the toilet bowl and letting it sit for a few minutes. Use a toilet brush to scrub the bowl, paying extra attention to the rim and under the waterline. Don’t forget to clean the seat, lid, and the area around the toilet as well. Finish off by wiping down these surfaces with a disinfectant cleaner.
Scrub the bathtub and shower
Use a bathroom cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the bathtub and shower walls. Pay attention to any areas that may have soap scum or mildew buildup. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove any residue.
Remove grime from tiles
Tiles can accumulate grime and dirt over time. Use a tile cleaner or a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water to clean the tiles. Scrub the grout lines with a grout brush to remove any stains or discoloration. Rinse the tiles and grout with water and dry them thoroughly.
Clean the sink and countertop
Just like in the kitchen, the sink and countertop in the bathroom should be cleaned and sanitized regularly. Use a non-abrasive cleaner to remove any stains or residue. Pay attention to any areas around the faucet and drain that may have accumulated soap residue or toothpaste.
Remove limescale from fixtures
Limescale can build up on the fixtures in your bathroom, such as faucets and showerheads. Use a limescale remover or a mixture of vinegar and water to dissolve the buildup. Soak a cloth or paper towel in the solution and wrap it around the fixtures. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly.
Wash shower curtains and bath mats
Don’t forget to regularly wash your shower curtains and bath mats. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying these items. This will help keep them clean and prevent the growth of mold or mildew.
Living Room
Dust and vacuum furniture
Start by dusting all furniture surfaces using a microfiber cloth or a feather duster. Pay special attention to areas that often accumulate dust, such as tabletops, shelves, and the back of the TV. Once you’ve dusted, use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to vacuum any upholstered furniture.
Clean and polish surfaces
Use a multi-surface cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar to clean and polish surfaces such as coffee tables, side tables, and shelves. Wipe them down thoroughly, removing any dust or smudges. For wooden furniture, consider using a furniture polish to restore its shine.
Vacuum carpets and rugs
Regular vacuuming is crucial to keep your carpets and rugs clean and free of dirt and allergens. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to thoroughly vacuum all carpeted areas. Pay special attention to high traffic areas and underneath furniture.
Wash curtains and blinds
Curtains and blinds can accumulate dust and allergens over time. Check the care instructions for your specific window treatments and wash or dry clean them accordingly. If they can’t be removed, use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently clean the surfaces.
Organize and declutter
Take the opportunity to organize and declutter your living room. Remove any items that are no longer needed or are taking up unnecessary space. Consider using storage bins or baskets to keep items organized and out of sight.
Bedroom
Change bed linens
Change your bed linens regularly to maintain a fresh and clean bedroom. Strip the bed of all sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers. Wash them according to the manufacturer’s instructions and replace them with clean ones. Don’t forget to fluff and rotate your pillows as well.
Dust and vacuum surfaces
Just like in the living room, dust all surfaces in the bedroom using a microfiber cloth or a feather duster. Pay special attention to nightstands, dressers, and any other furniture. Once you’ve dusted, use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to vacuum the floors and any upholstered furniture.
Clean mirrors and windows
Use a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to clean mirrors and windows in the bedroom. Wipe them down thoroughly, removing any fingerprints or smudges. For stubborn streaks, consider using a mixture of water and vinegar.
Organize clothes and belongings
Take the time to declutter and organize your clothes and belongings in the bedroom. Remove any items that you no longer wear or need and donate them if they’re in good condition. Use storage bins or organizers to keep things tidy and easily accessible. Consider rotating your seasonal clothing as well.
Vacuum or mop the floor
Depending on the type of flooring in your bedroom, either vacuum or mop it. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to thoroughly vacuum carpeted areas. For hard floors, use a mop and a suitable cleaning solution to remove any dirt or stains. Make sure to dry the floors thoroughly to prevent slipping.
Floors
Sweep or vacuum
Before mopping or cleaning your floors, it’s important to sweep or vacuum them first. This will remove any loose debris or dirt that could potentially scratch or damage the floors during the cleaning process.
Mop hard floors
For hard floors, use a mop and a suitable cleaning solution to clean and sanitize the surfaces. Pay attention to any high traffic areas or spots that may have spills or stains. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific type of flooring you have to ensure the best results.
Steam clean carpets
If you have carpets in your apartment, regularly steam cleaning them is essential to remove deep-seated dirt and stains. Consider renting a steam cleaner or hiring a professional carpet cleaning service to ensure a thorough clean. Follow the instructions provided with the steam cleaner or consult with the professionals for guidance.
Deep clean tile and grout
Tiles and grout can become discolored and stained over time, especially in high-moisture areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. Use a tile and grout cleaner and a scrub brush to deeply clean these surfaces. Pay special attention to any areas with stubborn stains or discoloration. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry the surfaces completely.
Windows and Glass
Clean glass surfaces
To clean glass surfaces throughout your apartment, use a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth. Spray the glass cleaner directly onto the cloth to prevent streaking. Wipe down windows, glass tabletops, mirrors, and any other glass surfaces. Don’t forget to clean any glass decor pieces you may have as well.
Remove fingerprints and smudges
Glass surfaces can quickly accumulate fingerprints and smudges, making them appear dirty. Use a microfiber cloth or a damp cloth to remove fingerprints and smudges in between regular cleanings. This quick touch-up will help your windows and glass surfaces always look their best.
Wash window exteriors
Cleaning the exterior of your windows can be a bit more challenging but is still important for maintaining a clean apartment. Consider using a window cleaning solution and a squeegee for the best results. Follow the proper safety precautions and techniques for cleaning windows from the outside.
Clean window blinds or shades
Window blinds or shades can collect dust and dirt over time. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a duster to remove any loose debris. For a more thorough clean, wipe down each slat with a microfiber cloth or a damp cloth. Be sure to clean both sides of the blinds or shades.
Finishing Touches
Dust and polish accessories
In addition to cleaning the main surfaces in your apartment, it’s important to dust and polish any accessories or decorative items. Use a microfiber cloth or a duster to remove any dust or debris. Consider using a polish specific to the type of material your accessories are made of, such as wood or metal.
Disinfect frequently-touched surfaces
To maintain a clean and germ-free apartment, regularly disinfect frequently-touched surfaces. This includes doorknobs, light switches, handles, and remote controls. Use a disinfectant spray or wipes to thoroughly clean these areas. Be sure to follow the instructions on the disinfectant product for the best results.
Empty and clean trash bins
Emptying and cleaning your trash bins is an essential part of maintaining a clean and odor-free apartment. Remove the trash bag and dispose of it properly. Wipe down the inside and outside of the trash bin with a disinfectant cleaner to kill any bacteria or lingering odor.
Freshen up with air purifiers or scented products
To give your apartment a fresh and inviting scent, consider using air purifiers or scented products. Air purifiers can help eliminate odors and improve air quality, while scented products such as candles or diffusers can add a pleasant aroma to your space. Choose scents that you enjoy and that create a calming or uplifting atmosphere.
Hiring Professional Cleaners
Consider benefits of professional cleaning services
While cleaning your apartment yourself can be rewarding, there are also many benefits to hiring professional cleaning services. Professional cleaners have the expertise, experience, and specialized equipment to thoroughly clean your apartment. They can save you time and effort while achieving a higher level of cleanliness.
Research and compare cleaning companies
When choosing a professional cleaning company, be sure to research and compare your options. Read reviews and testimonials from past customers to get a sense of their reputation and quality of service. Compare their prices and available packages to find the best fit for your cleaning needs and budget.
Schedule an appointment
Once you’ve found a reputable cleaning company, schedule an appointment that works for you. Be sure to communicate your specific cleaning requirements and any areas of concern. Discuss any additional services you may need, such as deep cleaning carpets or upholstery. Confirm the date and time of the appointment, and prepare your apartment accordingly.
By following this comprehensive guide, you can clean your apartment like a pro. Remember to gather the necessary tools and stock up on cleaning supplies. Create a cleaning schedule to stay organized and set a regular cleaning routine. Tackle each room methodically, ensuring all areas are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Don’t forget the floors, windows, and those finishing touches that make your apartment shine. And if you prefer to leave it to the professionals, consider hiring a reputable cleaning company to take care of the task for you. With a clean and tidy apartment, you’ll feel more relaxed, productive, and proud of your living space. Happy cleaning!