There is no denying that student life and cleaning are not the most compatible. Trying to cram in studying, a social life and a good night sleep is not for the faint-hearted, so it is understandable that your chores may have fallen on the wayside. They say that a clear space equals a clean mind and with exam season fast approaching, it has never felt more satisfying to give our homes the big ol’ Spring Clean that it so desperately needs. These top tips will have you feeling like a productive powerhouse in no time!
1. Create a plan
Before starting, it’s a good idea to start by creating a list of all the areas in your home that need cleaning and prioritize them based on their importance. Writing things down makes it a lot easier for you to visualise your workload.
2. Declutter
Let’s face it, who isn’t guilty of accumulating things they seldom use? It is easy to slip into the habit of holding onto items that we probably will never use again. Get rid of anything that you don’t need or use anymore. A rule of thumb to go by is if you haven’t reached for it in over a year then it is time to get rid. Alternatively, ask yourself “Does it spark joy?” – a tip from cleaning guru Marie Kondo. Donate, sell or recycle items that are in good condition and throw away the ones that are not.
3. Use natural cleaning products
If you’re looking to clean your home but want to avoid using harsh chemicals, consider opting for natural cleaning products instead. You might be surprised by how effective these natural alternatives can be, such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. Not only are natural cleaning products typically safer for your health and the environment, but they can also save you money in the long run.
4. Focus on high-traffic areas
The kitchen, bathroom, and living room are often the most used spaces in a home, and as a result, tend to accumulate the most dirt, grime, and germs. Giving these areas extra attention when cleaning can help ensure that they remain hygienic and safe for you. A thorough cleaning of these spaces should include wiping down surfaces, scrubbing floors, and disinfecting commonly touched items like doorknobs, light switches, and faucets.
5. Don’t forget about the windows!
By cleaning your windows inside and out, you can improve the appearance of your home and let in more natural light – which can make your space feel brighter and more inviting! To clean your windows, you’ll want to use a cleaning solution that is safe and effective for the material, such as a vinegar and water solution for glass. Make sure to wipe away any excess cleaner and dry the surface thoroughly to prevent any pesky streaking or water spots.
6. Clean the floors
Keeping your floors clean is an important part of maintaining a healthy and inviting home. To do this, start by vacuuming or sweeping the floors to remove any loose dirt and debris. Depending on the type of flooring you have, you may also want to mop with a suitable cleaner to get rid of any stains or stubborn dirt. It’s also important to pay attention to the baseboards and corners of your floors, as these areas can accumulate dust and dirt that is often overlooked.
7. Organise your closet
If you find yourself struggling to find things in your closet, it may be time to declutter and reorganize. Start by going through your clothes and getting rid of items that you no longer wear or that no longer fit. You can donate these items to charity or sell them online or with easy apps such as Depop or Vinted. Once you’ve cleared out the excess, organize your closet in a way that works best for you. You might choose to organize by season, colour, or category (such as work clothes, casual clothes, or workout clothes). This will not only make it easier to find what you’re looking for but can also help you see what you have and what you may need to add to your wardrobe. With a little bit of effort, you can transform your closet into a functional and stress-free space!
8. Clean your appliances
Your refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher are essential appliances in your home that require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Cleaning them both inside and out can not only improve their efficiency, but also extend their lifespan. Start by removing any food items from the refrigerator that are no longer in date and giving it a thorough wipe down with a mild cleaner. For your oven, use an oven cleaner to remove any baked-on food or grease from the inside and outside of the oven. These stains can be tough to remove so it may be worth letting the cleaner sit for a while before wiping it down. Not everyone has a dishwasher however, if you do – make sure you run it whilst its empty with a dishwasher aid/ limescale remover to remove any buildup of soap scum and mineral deposits that can cause your dishwasher to run less efficiently. By taking the time to clean and maintain these appliances, you can help ensure that they continue to work properly and keep your home running smoothly.
9. Make a schedule
Creating a schedule for spring cleaning tasks will help you spread out the workload. Start by dividing the tasks into manageable chunks, so that you don’t feel overwhelmed. This might mean focusing on one room at a time or breaking tasks down by category, such as cleaning, decluttering, and organizing. Assign each task to a specific day or week, and make a commitment to stick to your schedule. With a little bit of planning and dedication, you can create a clean and organized home that you can be proud of!
10. Don’t forget the hidden areas!
it’s important to remember to clean not only the obvious areas but also the hidden ones that often go overlooked. Dust can accumulate quickly in areas like ceiling fans, baseboards, and behind appliances, so it’s important to make sure these areas are included in your regular cleaning routine. Not only will this help keep your home looking its best, but it can also help reduce allergens and improve air quality. So don’t forget to tackle those hidden areas the next time you clean your home!
Looking for a high-end student experience? The Stay Club’s private student accommodation includes a dedicated housekeeping team to ensure communal areas are spotless, and you can request private cleaning services for your own studio.
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