My Top 5 Spring Cleaning Tips (for Busy, Time-Starved Professional Women!)
As a fellow busy professional mom, I get it. There are SO many other responsibilities hovering in the near and mid-future that cleaning tends to take a permanent back seat.
I don’t know about you, but I actually enjoy cleaning when the conditions are right. Opening the doors and windows, blasting a Killers playlist and clearning out the cobwebs is akin to therapy.
Part of the battle is making the time. I recommend scheduling your cleaning into your calendar so that you are committed. If you have older kids, get them involved! The mood and music can bring out even the most reticent teenager.
Of course, hiring professional cleaners is a great option too. We love working with Tidy Upped Home Cleaning Services and also Maid in Texas, both of whom offer affordable cleaning services in the Allen, Texas area.
If you want to continue cleaning yourself, but need some fresh ideas, here are my top five high-impact cleaning tips designed for busy professionals!
#1. Streamline Your Cleaning Supplies for Maximum Efficiency
Instead of dragging a dozen different cleaners around the house, simplify your routine with multipurpose solutions. A few high-quality essentials can handle most jobs. We like:
• A simple mix of vinegar and water (1 cup of each) mixed in a spray bottle cleans most surfaces and is far cheaper than most store-bought cleaners. Add a squirt of dish soap for degreasing and a few drops of essential oil if you desire.
Norwax cloths for the win! Just add water.
• Norwax cloths involve an initial investment, but they work absolute wonders and last for years. Wet the grey cloth and wipe any surface, and use the purple cloth to dry. These are the best window cleaners ever and no chemicals needed - just water. (We are not an affiliate.)
• Magic erasers for scuff marks and stubborn stains
Keep a small caddy with your chosen essentials under the kitchen sink or in a central spot so cleaning is always convenient and easy to tackle.
#2. Target the Overlooked “Dirt Magnets”
Some areas collect dirt and grime more than others, yet they’re often missed in routine cleaning. This spring, focus on these dirt magnets:
Light switches and doorknobs – Use a disinfecting wipe to remove germs in seconds.
Air vents and fan blades – A microfiber cloth or vacuum attachment can remove months of built-up dust. Don’t forget to change your air filters.
Under appliances and the couch – Slide your fridge and stove out slightly to sweep up crumbs and debris. You’ll find the missing socks under the couch (you’re welcome!)
Electronics - check the back of your printer, scanner or computer and wipe down dust to improve the longevity of these items. A Swiffer cloth or compressed air both work well.
A few targeted deep cleans in high-traffic areas can sanitize as we head out of cold and flu season (yay!) and improve odors.
#3. Clean Smarter, Not Harder with the “Dwell Time” Trick
Soaking your shower head in vinegar helps clear out calcium deposits.
Instead of scrubbing endlessly, let your cleaning products do the work for you. Most disinfectants and degreasers need a few minutes to break down grime before wiping. Here’s how to maximize dwell time:
Spray your shower and let it sit while you clean the sink, then come back and rinse with minimal scrubbing.
Apply oven cleaner before dinner so it can work while you eat dinner, then wipe it away easily afterward.
Soak sponges, showerheads, and sink strainers in vinegar water while you tackle another task.
By giving cleaners time to do their job, you’ll get better results without extra elbow grease.
#4. Refresh, Don’t Replace
Instead of buying new, try deep-cleaning and revitalizing what you already own. A steam-cleaned couch, polished shoes, and freshly laundered curtains can make your space feel fresh without having to purchase new items. Prioritize high-impact refreshes, like washing throw pillows and airing out rugs, to transform your home with minimal effort.
Steam cleaning the couch and rugs makes them feel fresh and new!
#5. Speed Clean with the “Two-Minute Rule”
Cleaning often gets put off because it feels like a huge time commitment. If doing your whole house is too tricky, adopt the two-minute rule: if a cleaning task takes two minutes or less, do it immediately. Examples include:
Wiping down the bathroom sink after getting ready
Shaking out the entryway rug
Spraying and wiping kitchen counters before bed
These quick wins prevent dirt from building up and keep your home feeling fresh between deep cleans.
I hope you find this list helpful! If you are looking for more support when it comes to decluttering and home organizing, Allen Home Organizers are here to help! Please contact us to discuss your project.
Happy Cleaning!
