Clean Home in 10 Easy Steps
Clean Home in 10 Easy Steps.Until someone out there introduces a universally free household cleaning service, most of us will continue to tackle the less-than-thrilling task of cleaning our own homes each week. Still, you can can make this routine task quicker and easier by putting these simple time-saving tips into play. 1 If it isn't begging for attention, don't buff it. If the dust bunnies aren't hopping out at friends and family, it's OK to occasionally let them be. Instead, create a cleaning timetable that works with your family's busy schedule. 2 Make the most of every minute. Find tasks that you can do simultaneously. For example, while: -- making coffee, declutter your countertops or organize the kitchen shelves; -- cooking, wash utensils and dishes and put them away as you go and wipe down cooktop spills; -- waiting in the doctor's office, pay bills and balance your checkbook or review your calendar and respond to invitations. 3 Head off housework. -- use a doormat to keep dirt outside -- eat only in the kitchen or dining room -- return mislaid items to their proper places each night before going to bed. 4 Avoid interruptions. -- Let voicemail take the calls until you've finished the task at hand -- set aside a daily time to respond to e-mail and voicemail. 5 Set realistic standards. If you lack the time to buff your home thoroughly, adjust your expectations. 6 Call in the troops. Hold a family meeting to discuss what chores need to be accomplished in the week ahead. Divvy up kids' chores by age. A family that works together has more time to play together. 7 Keep household germs in check. Streamline bathroom and kitchen disinfecting with a speed-cleaning routine. 8 Say adieu to allergens. Vacuum frequently and wash bed linens in hot water to remove dust mites. (Read more about getting rid of allergens here.) 9 Thin your houseplant collection. If you enjoy indoor greenery but spend too much time maintaining it, choose a few easy-care plants and weed out the rest. (Need to find out if plants you can't kill actually even exist? Get their names here.) 10 Make your home safe. A clutter-free home helps prevent accidents from happening. (Here are the 10 Essential Steps to a Safer Home to get you started.)  Custom Search Cleaning 101: Getting Started
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Cleaning the
Family Jewels
A diamond is forever - if
you know how to clean it.
Kids Chores Daily
By Age
What chores are appropriate for a child's age? Find out
here.
How to Clean
Cloudy Crystal
If the Waterford tumblers are looking more foggy than crystal clear, here's how to to get it sparkling again.