We’ve all been there – you’re relaxing at home, maybe still in your pajamas, when suddenly your phone buzzes. It’s a friend or family member, and they’re on their way over. Cue the panic! Your home is a mess, and you’ve got precious little time to make it presentable. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with these 10 tips for speed cleaning when company’s coming over.
Prioritize high-traffic areas
When you’re short on time, focus on the areas your guests are most likely to see. This usually means the living room, kitchen, bathroom, and entryway. Don’t waste time organizing your bedroom or home office if your visitors won’t be venturing in there.
Quick decluttering techniques:
- Grab a laundry basket and do a sweep of visible areas, tossing in anything that doesn’t belong.
- Hide the basket in a closet or spare room – you can deal with it later!
- Straighten pillows, fold throws, and quickly organize magazines or remote controls.
Use a cleaning caddy
Efficiency is key when you’re racing against the clock. A cleaning caddy stocked with all your essential supplies will save you precious minutes running back and forth to the supply closet. Professionals, like those with Elevated Cleaning Services, recommend stocking your caddy with multi-surface cleaner, glass cleaner, microfiber cloths, a duster, and any other go-to cleaning items you frequently use.
Start with the bathroom
Let’s face it: a clean, fresh-smelling bathroom can make up for a multitude of sins elsewhere in the house. Plus, there’s a good chance your guests will use it during their visit.
Here’s a quick bathroom cleaning checklist:
- Wipe down the sink and faucet
- Clean the toilet (inside and out)
- Wipe the mirror
- Replace hand towels
- Empty the trash
- Give the floor a quick sweep or wipe
Pro tip: Keep some disposable cleaning wipes under the sink for emergencies like this – they’re perfect for quick touch-ups.
Tackle the kitchen
A messy kitchen can make your whole home feel chaotic. Start by clearing and wiping down countertops. Stash dirty dishes in the dishwasher if you have one. If not, here’s a quick dish-dealing strategy:
- Fill the sink with hot, soapy water
- Submerge dishes to soak while you clean other areas
- Come back and do a quick wash and rinse
- Hide them in the oven if you’re truly desperate (just don’t forget they’re in there!)
Speed dust and vacuum
No need for a deep clean here – focus on visible surfaces and floors. Use your duster on coffee tables, TV stands, and other noticeable surfaces. For vacuuming, concentrate on the center of rooms and high-traffic areas. Don’t worry about moving furniture or getting into every corner – your guests probably won’t notice.
Quick vacuuming tips:
- Start from the farthest point and work your way towards the room’s exit
- Do a few quick passes over visible areas
- Don’t forget to vacuum or shake out the welcome mat
Freshen the air
Nothing says “clean home” like a fresh, pleasant scent. Open windows for a few minutes if weather permits to let in some fresh air. If you have time, simmer some water with lemon slices and a few sprigs of herbs (rosemary works great) on the stove. This natural air freshener will make your home smell amazing.
If you’re really short on time, a quick spritz of air freshener will do the trick. Just don’t go overboard – you don’t want your home to smell like a perfume factory!
Make the living room inviting
Your living room is likely where you’ll be entertaining your guests, so give it some extra attention. After decluttering and dusting, focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere. Fluff the pillows on your couch, fold any throw blankets, and clear off the coffee table. If you have time, adding a small vase of flowers or lighting a candle can add a nice touch.
Don’t forget entryways
First impressions matter, and your entryway is the first thing your guests will see when they arrive. Take a moment to tidy up this area. Hang up any coats or bags that might be lying around, put shoes in their proper place, and give the doormat a quick shake outside. If you have a console table or key dish in your entryway, make sure it’s organized and dust-free.
Use multipurpose cleaning products
When you’re in a rush, the last thing you want is to juggle multiple cleaning products. This is where multipurpose cleaners shine. A good all-purpose cleaner can tackle countertops, sinks, and even some floor spots. Not only does this save time, but it also means less to carry around as you speed-clean your home.
Some great multipurpose options include:
- Vinegar and water solution (great for most surfaces)
- Castile soap (can be used on everything from counters to floors)
- Commercial all-purpose sprays (choose one with a scent you love)
Enlist help if possible
If you have family members or roommates at home, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Divide and conquer by assigning tasks to different people. Maybe your partner can tackle the bathroom while you speed through the living room. Even young kids can help by picking up their toys or wiping down low surfaces (use a chore chart to make maintaining easier).
Remember, many hands make light work. Plus, turning it into a team effort can make the process a bit more fun – maybe even turn it into a race to see who can finish their tasks first!
With these tips in your cleaning arsenal, you’ll be ready to tackle any surprise visitor situation. Remember, your guests are coming to see you, not to judge your housekeeping skills. A tidy, welcoming home is great, but don’t stress if everything isn’t perfect.
Once you’ve done your speed clean, take a deep breath, change into some presentable clothes (if you haven’t already), and get ready to enjoy your company. After all, a relaxed and happy host is the most important element of any welcoming home.
And hey, next time you’re tempted to drop in on someone unannounced, maybe give them a bit of warning first. Your friends with messy homes will thank you!