When you don’t have time for a full deep clean, focus on these six key spots in your house that visitors are likely to notice.
Your guests called—they’re on the way. You’re thinking, “Please let them hit traffic!” because your place still needs some major straightening up. Not to worry: These six cleaning tips from Donna Smallin Kuper, author of Clear the Clutter, Find Happiness, are the keys to a speedy cleanup.
Sweep Outside
Your porch, steps, windows, and banisters are the first things guests will see, so make sure they’re free of debris and cobwebs. Use an angled broom with a head that swivels to get in hard-to-reach corners. An expandable broom also works well and is useful for both large and small spaces.
Straighten Up the Entryway
The entryway is where you welcome guests—a pile of shoes, gloves, and miscellaneous sports equipment and school supplies does not say “welcome.” To keep that space clear, try a storage bench with baskets underneath, which can hide all kinds of clutter in a pinch. Stash sports gear and other odds and ends in clear storage bins in the garage.
Declutter the Coat Closet
If your coat closet is also your linen closet, your out-of-season-clothes closet, and your cleaning closet, we totally get it. But when you’re having company, you’ll need to use the space for your guests’ coats. A closet with plenty of space to hang outdoor gear gives the impression that the whole house is neat and orderly. Sure, you might need to move some things around to make room. Use the top shelf of the closet (baskets work great here), other closets, and bedrooms. Add extra nonslip hangers, so items don’t end up on the floor.
Quick-Clean the Guest Bathroom
It’s #goals to always keep your bathrooms clean, but right now you don’t have time for that. Focus on the bathroom guests are most likely to use, whether it’s a specific guest bathroom or just the closest one to where you’ll be entertaining.
Follow Smallin Kuper’s 15-minute routine for speed cleaning: Spray the shower (if there is one) with a cleaning solution like basil-scented Mrs. Meyers, and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. During that time, scrub the toilet, wipe down the sink and mirrors, and empty the bathroom wastebasket. Then go back to the shower and clean it with a scrub brush. Last, mop the floor with disposable, single-use cloths, replenish the hand soap, and hang a fresh set of hand towels.
Got an extra minute? Light a scented candle or set out an essential oil diffuser.
Empty the Garbage Can
An empty trash can is a signal the room is clean. Plus, you don’t want to start a party with a full one, so definitely empty yours. Better yet, invest in a sleek trash can in rose gold or dark bronze, so your trash looks (almost) like treasure.
Minimize Counter Clutter
If you have an open-concept kitchen you use for entertaining, be sure to wipe down the countertops and put dirty dishes in the dishwasher. Don’t stop at cleaning—clutter control matters, too. Stash mail and papers in an organizer. Arrange everyday items, like cooking oils and spices, on a turntable in the pantry, so they’re tucked away but still in easy reach.
Not so bad, right? Your place will be looking clean before you know it.