What Does a General Clean Include? Tips for a Spotless Home

A general clean can mean different things to different people, but typically involves cleaning the most frequently used areas of a home. Here are some typical tasks that you can expect to be included in a general clean:

Tidying up and decluttering surfaces, including kitchen counters, coffee tables, and bathroom vanities.

Vacuuming or sweeping all floors, including carpets and hard surfaces.

Mopping hard surfaces and wiping down baseboards and molding.

Dusting surfaces, including furniture, shelves, and decor.

Cleaning mirrors and wiping down windowsills.

Scrubbing the sink, toilet, and shower/tub in the bathroom.

Washing dishes and putting them away (if agreed upon beforehand).

It’s important to note that a general clean may not include deep cleaning tasks like scrubbing grout or cleaning out the fridge. If you’re looking for a more in-depth cleaning, it’s best to communicate that with your cleaner or do it yourself!

The Basics of a General Clean

Cleaning your home regularly is a crucial part of maintaining a comfortable living space. A general clean is a term that is commonly used to refer to a general cleaning of your home. This type of cleaning usually involves basic cleaning tasks such as tidying up, vacuuming, wiping floors, dusting, and wiping surfaces. Although it may seem simple, the job can be overwhelming and time-consuming, especially if you haven’t done this in a while. A general clean is essential for maintaining a healthy living environment by removing accumulated dirt, dust, and allergens. It is also important for keeping your home looking its best. A general clean not only helps you maintain a tidy home, but it can also have a positive impact on your mood and overall wellbeing. In this article, we will outline the basic steps of a general clean and share some tips on how to make the most of your time and effort.

Tidying up and Decluttering Your Space

The first step in a general clean is to tidy up and declutter your space. This means putting everything in its place, organizing your belongings, and getting rid of anything you no longer need. Start by removing any clutter that is visible on tables, countertops, and other surfaces. Organize toys, books, papers, and other items that are out of place. This will make it easier to clean your surfaces and floors. Decluttering can be a challenge, but it’s essential for maintaining a tidy home. If you’re having trouble deciding what to keep and what to get rid of, use the following criteria:

• Items that you use regularly should be kept in an easily accessible location.
• Items that are sentimental should be kept, but only if you have room. Consider taking pictures of these items and storing them digitally to save space.
• Items that are no longer needed or used should be donated or thrown away.

The Importance of Vacuuming and Mopping

Vacuuming and mopping are essential for maintaining clean floors and carpets. Vacuum your carpets and furniture thoroughly, paying close attention to areas under furniture and corners. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter if possible to remove allergens and dust from the air. When vacuuming hard floors, use a vacuum with a hard floor setting and avoid using the beater bar, which can damage your floors. After vacuuming, mop your floors to remove any remaining dirt and grime. This will give your floors a fresh and clean look. Mopping also removes any bacteria and germs that may be present on your floors. Use a cleaner that is suitable for your flooring type, and make sure to rinse the mop frequently to avoid spreading dirt.

Dusting and Polishing Surfaces for a Shiny Finish

Dusting and polishing surfaces is an essential step in a general clean. Dust all surfaces in your home, including countertops, shelves, and furniture using a microfiber cloth or a duster. Remember to clean your ceiling fans and lamp shades, which can collect a lot of dust. For a shiny finish, use a cleaner or polish that is suitable for your surface type. This will give your surfaces a clean and polished look while also protecting them from damage.

Disinfecting High-Touch Surfaces for a Clean Home

Disinfecting high-touch surfaces is critical for maintaining a clean and healthy home. High-touch surfaces include doorknobs, light switches, countertops, keyboards, and more. These surfaces can harbor bacteria and viruses, so it’s essential to clean and disinfect them regularly. To disinfect high-touch surfaces, use a disinfectant spray or wipes that are approved by the EPA. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and let the disinfectant sit for the recommended amount of time. This will ensure that all bacteria and viruses are eliminated.

Easy Dishwashing Hacks for a Spotless Kitchen

Dishwashing can be a monotonous and time-consuming task, but it’s essential for maintaining a clean and hygienic kitchen. Here are some easy tips to make dishwashing easier and more efficient:

• Soak dirty dishes in hot, soapy water before washing to loosen dirt and grime.
• Use a dishwashing brush or sponge to scrub dishes thoroughly.
• Rinse dishes with hot water to remove any soap residue.
• Dry dishes with a clean towel or let them air dry.
• Use a dish rack or drying mat to keep dishes organized.

Tips for Organizing a General Clean Routine

Organizing a general clean routine can help you maintain a clean and tidy home with minimal effort. Here are some tips for creating a cleaning schedule that works for you:

• Create a cleaning checklist that includes all of the tasks you want to accomplish during your general clean.
• Assign different tasks to different days of the week to spread out the workload.
• Involve other family members in the cleaning process to make cleaning easier and more efficient.
• Set a timer for each task to help you stay focused and on track.
• Reward yourself after completing your cleaning tasks to motivate yourself to keep going.

In conclusion, a general clean is an essential part of maintaining a clean and comfortable living space. By following the steps outlined in this article and incorporating some easy tips, you can make your general clean more efficient and enjoyable. Remember to declutter, vacuum and mop your floors, dust and polish surfaces, disinfect high-touch areas, and tackle dishwashing with ease. With a little bit of effort, you can create a happy and healthy home for you and your family.