Cleaning a super messy apartment can be a daunting task, but fear not! In this article, we will provide you with some essential tips and tricks to help you tackle the chaos and restore cleanliness to your living space. From creating a cleaning plan to decluttering and organizing, we’ve got you covered. Say goodbye to the mess and hello to a fresh and inviting home!
Decluttering
Gathering supplies
When it comes to decluttering, having the right supplies on hand can make the process much easier and efficient. Before you start, gather garbage bags or bins for items to discard, boxes for items to donate, and cleaning supplies such as gloves, cleaning sprays, and microfiber cloths. Having all of these supplies ready will help you stay focused and organized throughout the decluttering process.
Creating a plan
Before diving into the decluttering process, it’s important to create a plan. Start by identifying the areas of your apartment that need the most attention. This could be a specific room or just a corner that has become particularly cluttered. Once you’ve identified the areas, break the task down into smaller steps that you can tackle one at a time. This will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed and help you stay on track.
Start with a designated area
To make the decluttering process more manageable, start with a designated area. This could be a single room or even just a section of a room. By focusing on one area at a time, you can give it your full attention and see progress more quickly. This can help you stay motivated and encourage you to continue decluttering throughout your apartment.
Sorting items
When decluttering, it’s essential to sort items into categories. Create separate piles for items to keep, donate, and discard. Take a moment to assess each item and ask yourself if it’s something you truly need or if it holds sentimental value. Be ruthless with your decisions to keep or let go of items. Remember, the goal is to create a more organized and clutter-free living space.
Organizing and labeling
Once you’ve sorted through all your items, it’s time to organize and label everything. Invest in storage containers or bins to help keep your items neat and tidy. Categorize items by type, purpose, or frequency of use, depending on your preference. Labeling each container will make it easier to find things in the future and prevent clutter from returning.
Donate or discard
After you’ve completed the decluttering process, it’s time to follow through with the items you’ve designated for donation or disposal. Make arrangements to drop off donated items at a local charity or schedule a pickup. Dispose of garbage and recycling properly, making sure to check your local guidelines for any specific instructions. By following through with donating or discarding items promptly, you can complete the decluttering process and enjoy your newfound space.
Deep Cleaning
Dust and vacuum first
When it comes to deep cleaning your apartment, it’s important to start with dusting and vacuuming. Dust all surfaces, including furniture, shelves, and baseboards, using a microfiber cloth or duster. Be thorough and don’t forget to dust hard-to-reach areas like light fixtures and ceiling fans. Once you’ve dusted, vacuum all the floors, including carpets, rugs, and hard floors, to remove any loose dirt and debris.
Cleaning surfaces and furniture
After dusting and vacuuming, it’s time to clean the surfaces and furniture in your apartment. Use a suitable cleaning spray and a clean cloth to wipe down countertops, tables, and other hard surfaces. Pay attention to any stains or spills and use appropriate cleaning products to tackle them. For furniture, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and use the recommended cleaning method for each specific material.
Cleaning windows and mirrors
Next, take some time to clean the windows and mirrors in your apartment. Using a glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth, wipe down all glass surfaces, including windows, mirrors, and glass tabletops. Be sure to remove any streaks or smudges for a crystal-clear finish. Cleaning the windows and mirrors not only improves the overall appearance of your apartment but also allows more natural light to filter through.
Scrubbing floors
Deep cleaning your floors is an essential part of maintaining a clean and healthy living space. For hard floors, mop them using a suitable floor cleaner and a mop or microfiber cloth. Pay extra attention to high traffic areas and any spills or stains that may have accumulated over time. If you have carpets, consider renting a carpet cleaner or hire professionals to ensure a deep and thorough clean of your carpets.
Cleaning appliances
Don’t forget to give your appliances some attention during the deep cleaning process. Wipe down the exterior surfaces of appliances such as the refrigerator, dishwasher, stove, and microwave. Clean the inside of the oven and microwave, removing any food residue or built-up grime. If applicable, clean or replace filters in appliances like air purifiers or range hoods. By keeping your appliances clean, you not only improve their longevity but also maintain a hygienic living space.
Cleaning bathroom and kitchen thoroughly
The bathroom and kitchen are two areas in your apartment that require extra attention when it comes to deep cleaning. In the bathroom, thoroughly clean the toilet, sink, and shower or bathtub using appropriate cleaning products. Pay attention to any mold or mildew and use a mold and mildew remover if necessary. In the kitchen, clean the countertops, sink, and backsplash, and don’t forget to clean out the inside of the refrigerator and oven. By giving these areas a thorough cleaning, you can ensure a clean and fresh environment in your apartment.
Tackling the Kitchen
Clearing countertops and sink
To start revamping the kitchen, begin by clearing off any clutter from your countertops and sink. Put away any items that don’t belong in the kitchen and find designated spots for them. Clearing off the countertops will give you more space to work with and make it easier to clean the surfaces.
Organizing cabinets and drawers
Once the countertops are clear, it’s time to organize the cabinets and drawers in your kitchen. Take everything out and assess what you have. Donate or discard any items you no longer use or need. Group similar items together and find appropriate storage solutions for each category. Consider using drawer organizers or shelf dividers to maximize space and keep things tidy.
Dealing with dirty dishes
If you have a pile of dirty dishes, it’s time to tackle them. Start by scraping off any leftover food into the trash or compost bin. Then, soak the dishes in hot, soapy water to help loosen any stubborn residue. Scrub each dish thoroughly, paying special attention to any stuck-on food. Rinse the dishes and either load them into the dishwasher or dry and put them away.
Cleaning appliances
As you revamp your kitchen, don’t forget to clean your appliances. Wipe down the exterior surfaces of your refrigerator, stove, microwave, and dishwasher. Use appropriate cleaning products for each appliance. Pay special attention to any spills or stains and clean them thoroughly. It’s also a good idea to clean out the inside of your refrigerator, removing any expired or unwanted items.
Cleaning the refrigerator
To deep clean your refrigerator, start by removing all the food and placing it in a cooler or insulated bag to keep it cool. Take out the shelves and drawers, and wash them with warm, soapy water. Use a baking soda and water solution to wipe down the interior of the fridge, removing any spills or odors. Dry the shelves and drawers thoroughly before placing them back into the refrigerator.
Cleaning the oven
Cleaning the oven is an important part of revamping your kitchen. Start by removing any loose debris or food particles from the oven. Then, apply an oven cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Let the cleaner sit for the recommended amount of time to loosen any grime or baked-on grease. Use a scrub brush to scrub away the residue, and wipe down the interior with a damp cloth. Don’t forget to clean the oven racks as well before replacing them.
Revamping the Bathroom
Clearing out personal items
When revamping your bathroom, start by clearing out any personal items that don’t belong in the space. Put away toiletries, medications, and any other personal items that have accumulated on countertops or in drawers. Find appropriate storage solutions for these items, whether it’s a medicine cabinet, vanity organizer, or shelving unit.
Removing shower curtain and bathmats
Next, remove the shower curtain and bathmats from the bathroom. Shake out the bathmats and either wash them according to the manufacturer’s instructions or replace them if necessary. If your shower curtain is washable, remove it and launder it as well. If it’s not washable, consider replacing it with a new one for a fresh and clean look.
Deep cleaning the shower and bathtub
To deep clean your shower and bathtub, start by removing any loose items like shampoo bottles or loofahs. Apply a bathroom cleaner to the surfaces and let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate any soap scum or grime. Use a scrub brush or sponge to scrub the surfaces thoroughly, paying special attention to corners, grout lines, and fixtures. Rinse everything thoroughly to remove the cleaning product.
Cleaning the toilet
Cleaning the toilet is an essential part of revamping your bathroom. Start by applying a toilet bowl cleaner to the inside of the bowl, making sure to cover the entire surface. Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes to disinfect and loosen any stains. Use a toilet brush to scrub the bowl thoroughly, paying extra attention to any stubborn stains. Flush the toilet to rinse away the cleaner.
Cleaning the sink and vanity
The sink and vanity are other areas that require attention when revamping your bathroom. Start by removing any items from the sink and clearing off the countertop. Wipe down the sink and countertop with a suitable cleaner, removing any stains or soap residue. Don’t forget to clean the faucet and handles as well. Empty out the vanity drawers and cabinets, and wipe down the interior. Replace items in an organized and tidy manner.
Washing towels and mats
To complete the revamping process in your bathroom, wash all towels and bathmats. Launder them according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using a suitable detergent and following the recommended temperature settings. Once clean, fold or hang the towels and mats in an organized manner. This will not only give your bathroom a fresh and clean appearance but also ensure that you have clean and hygienic items for daily use.
Tidying Up the Bedroom
Making the bed
To start tidying up your bedroom, make your bed. Straighten out the sheets and blankets, fluff the pillows, and arrange them neatly. A made bed instantly makes a room look more tidy and put together.
Clearing clutter from surfaces
Next, clear any clutter from surfaces such as dressers, nightstands, and shelves. Put away items that don’t belong in the bedroom and find designated spots for them. Use decorative storage solutions like baskets or boxes to corral small items and keep surfaces tidy.
Organizing the closet
A well-organized closet can make a big difference in the overall tidiness of your bedroom. Start by decluttering and donating or discarding any clothing or accessories you no longer wear or need. Then, sort your remaining items by category and find suitable storage solutions such as hangers, bins, or shelves. Maximize the space in your closet by utilizing organizers like hanging shoe racks or garment bags.
Cleaning the windows and curtains
To refresh your bedroom, clean the windows and curtains. Start by dusting the windowsills and frames using a microfiber cloth or duster. Then, use a suitable glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to clean the windows, removing any streaks or smudges. If you have curtains, check the care instructions and either launder or dry clean them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Dusting and vacuuming
Dust all surfaces in your bedroom, including furniture, shelves, and baseboards. Utilize a microfiber cloth or duster to capture and trap dust particles. Pay attention to hard-to-reach areas like light fixtures and ceiling fans. Once you’ve dusted, vacuum the floors, including carpets, rugs, and hard floors, to remove any loose dirt and debris. Move furniture to reach those hidden areas that often accumulate dust.
Washing bedding
Completing the tidying up process in your bedroom involves washing all bedding. Launder your sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a suitable detergent and follow the recommended temperature settings. Once clean, make sure to fold or put the bedding back on the bed neatly. Clean sheets not only contribute to a fresh and tidy appearance but also provide a comfortable and inviting space to rest.
Refreshing the Living Room
Clearing out unnecessary items
To refresh your living room, start by clearing out any unnecessary items. Put away items that don’t belong in the living room and find designated spots for them. Remove any clutter from surfaces such as coffee tables or side tables to create a clean and inviting space.
Dusting and cleaning furniture
Dust all surfaces of your living room furniture, using a microfiber cloth or duster to capture and trap dust particles. Pay special attention to hard-to-reach areas like the back corners of sofas or the tops of bookshelves. For upholstered furniture, use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove any debris or pet hair.
Vacuuming carpets and rugs
Vacuum all carpets and rugs in your living room to remove any loose dirt and debris. Start by moving furniture and vacuuming underneath, as this is where dust and dirt often accumulate. Use attachments or specialized tools to reach corners, crevices, and baseboards. Regular vacuuming keeps your living room looking fresh and helps maintain the longevity of your carpets and rugs.
Cleaning or replacing curtains
To refresh your living room windows, clean or replace the curtains. Dust the curtain rods and hardware using a microfiber cloth or duster. If your curtains are washable, follow the care instructions and launder them accordingly. For curtains that can’t be washed, consider professional cleaning or replacing them with new curtains for a clean and updated look.
Cleaning electronics and entertainment systems
Don’t forget to clean your electronics and entertainment systems. Dust surfaces like TV screens, speakers, and game consoles using a microfiber cloth. Use appropriate cleaning products to wipe down remotes, controllers, and other accessories. Be sure to unplug any electronics before cleaning and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damage.
Arranging and organizing
Lastly, arrange and organize the furniture and accessories in your living room to create a visually pleasing space. Consider the flow of the room and arrange furniture in a way that promotes conversation and facilitates movement. Use decorative storage solutions like baskets or bins to corral small items and keep the living room tidy. Arrange decorative items and artwork in a way that enhances the overall aesthetic of the room.
Taming the Laundry Room
Clearing out clutter
To start taming your laundry room, clear out any clutter that has accumulated. Remove any items that don’t belong in the laundry room and find designated spots for them. Put away cleaning supplies, tools, or items that have been misplaced, and create a clean and organized space.
Organizing supplies and storage
Once the clutter is cleared, focus on organizing your laundry supplies and storage. Assess your supplies and dispose of any expired or unused products. Invest in storage containers or baskets to corral items like detergent, stain removers, and dryer sheets. Use shelves or cabinets to store supplies neatly, maximizing the available space in your laundry room.
Cleaning washing machine and dryer
Cleaning your washing machine and dryer is an essential part of maintaining a functional laundry room. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning guidelines. Generally, you can clean the interiors of both appliances by running a cycle using hot water and either vinegar or a suitable cleaning product. Wipe down the exterior surfaces with a damp cloth and clean the lint trap in the dryer to ensure proper airflow.
Sorting and folding clothes
One of the main tasks in the laundry room is sorting and folding clothes. Create separate bins or hampers for different categories like lights, darks, and delicates. Sort clothes as you go to prevent them from piling up and becoming overwhelming. Once the clothes are washed and dry, take the time to fold or hang them neatly. Artful folding can save space and make finding clothes easier.
Organizing clean laundry
After folding or hanging your clean laundry, focus on organizing it in a way that makes sense for your household. Consider using designated space for each family member or finding storage solutions like shelves or cubbies to corral the items. Keeping the laundry room and clean laundry organized will save you time and ensure that everyone’s clothing is easily accessible.
Dealing with dirty laundry
Lastly, create a system for dealing with dirty laundry. Invest in quality laundry hampers or bins that can be easily carried to the laundry room. Teach everyone in the household to separate clothing into appropriate categories to make sorting easier. Implement a regular laundry schedule that fits your lifestyle to ensure dirty laundry doesn’t accumulate and become overwhelming.
Handling the Home Office
Organizing paperwork and documents
To tackle your home office, start by organizing your paperwork and documents. Sort through the piles and gather similar items together. Decide which documents you need to keep for reference or legal purposes and which ones can be discarded. Invest in filing systems, folders, or binders to keep important documents organized and easily accessible.
Sorting and filing
Once you’ve organized your paperwork, take the time to sort and file it properly. Establish a filing system that works for you, whether it’s alphabetical, by category, or a combination of both. Label folders or binders clearly to make it easy to find specific documents when needed. Regularly review and purge old or unnecessary documents to keep your filing system efficient.
Cleaning and dusting the workspace
A clean and dust-free workspace is essential for a productive home office. Start by clearing off your desk and removing any unnecessary clutter or items. Dust all surfaces, including your desk, computer monitor or laptop, keyboard, and any other electronics. Use a suitable cleaning spray and a microfiber cloth to ensure a thorough cleaning without damaging your equipment.
Organizing computer cables
Tangled and messy computer cables can be distracting and make your home office feel cluttered. Invest in cable management solutions like cable clips or zip ties to keep cords neat and organized. Label cords or use color-coded stickers to easily identify which cable belongs to which device. Velcro wraps or cord covers can also help streamline cable management and prevent tripping hazards.
Cleaning electronics
In addition to dusting your workspace, don’t forget to clean your electronics. Wipe down your computer monitor, keyboard, mouse, and any other peripherals using a suitable cleaning product and a lint-free cloth. Use compressed air to remove any dust or debris from hard-to-reach areas or crevices. Keep your electronics clean not only for a tidier appearance but also to ensure their optimal performance.
Creating an efficient system
To maintain a tidy and efficient home office, create a system that works for you. Find a designated spot for all your office supplies, whether it’s in desk drawers, on shelves, or in storage containers. Establish a routine for organizing and clearing off your desk at the end of each workday. By creating a system that suits your workflow, you’ll be able to stay organized and maximize productivity.
Maintaining a Clean Home
Establishing a cleaning routine
One of the keys to maintaining a clean home is establishing a cleaning routine. Determine how often you need to clean different areas of your home and create a schedule that works for you. This could include daily tasks like dishes and quick tidying up, weekly tasks like vacuuming and dusting, and monthly tasks like deep cleaning specific areas.
Regularly decluttering
To prevent clutter from accumulating and overwhelming your space, make it a habit to regularly declutter. Schedule decluttering sessions where you assess each room and get rid of items you no longer need or want. By decluttering regularly, you’ll have less to clean and maintain, making it easier to keep your home tidy.
Cleaning up after each task
A simple but effective habit to maintain a clean home is to clean up after each task. Whether it’s cooking, doing crafts, or working on a project, take a few minutes to tidy up and put away any items or supplies used. This prevents clutter from accumulating and makes it easier to maintain a clean and organized space.
Doing small daily cleaning tasks
In addition to regular cleaning and tidying up, incorporate small daily cleaning tasks into your routine. These could include wiping down kitchen countertops, quickly sweeping or vacuuming high traffic areas, or doing a load of laundry. By tackling small cleaning tasks daily, you’ll prevent them from piling up and becoming overwhelming.
Hiring professional help if needed
If maintaining a clean home becomes overwhelming or you simply don’t have the time or energy to do it all yourself, consider hiring professional help. Cleaning services are available to assist with regular cleaning tasks or deep cleaning sessions. Having a professional come in can alleviate some of the stress and ensure that your home is consistently clean and well-maintained.
Preventing future messes
To maintain a clean home, it’s important to take preventative measures to avoid future messes. Establish habits like taking off your shoes at the door to prevent tracking dirt and debris throughout the house. Use doormats or rugs to trap dirt and dust. Encourage everyone in the household to clean up after themselves and put things away properly. By preventing messes before they happen, you’ll be able to maintain a clean and organized space more easily.
Rewarding Yourself
Celebrating your progress
After putting in the effort to clean and organize your home, take a moment to celebrate your progress. Recognize the hard work you’ve put in and the positive changes you’ve made. Share your achievements with friends or family members who can appreciate the effort you’ve invested in creating a clean and inviting space.
Enjoying the clean space
Take the time to simply enjoy the clean and organized space you’ve created. Sit back, relax, and take in the visual appeal and the calming atmosphere. Breathe in the fresh air and take pleasure in having a clean home that reflects your personality and values.
Treating yourself
Reward yourself for a job well done by treating yourself to something you enjoy. Whether it’s indulging in a favorite snack, taking a relaxing bath, or watching a movie, do something that brings you joy and helps you unwind. You deserve it for all the hard work you’ve put into creating and maintaining a clean living environment.
Setting goals for maintenance
To sustain the clean and organized home you’ve achieved, set goals for maintenance. Determine what tasks need to be done daily, weekly, or monthly to keep your home in good condition. Create a cleaning schedule or checklist to help you stay on track. By setting goals and staying consistent with maintenance, you can enjoy a clean home for the long term.
Creating a relaxing atmosphere
In addition to cleanliness, create a relaxing atmosphere in your home. Incorporate elements like soothing colors, comfortable furniture, and soft lighting to promote relaxation and well-being. Don’t forget to add personal touches like plants, artwork, or sentimental items to make your space feel cozy and inviting. A clean and organized home combined with a relaxing atmosphere can contribute to a sense of peace and contentment.
Appreciating the effort
Above all, take a moment to appreciate the effort you’ve put into making your home a clean and inviting space. Recognize that maintaining a clean home is an ongoing process that requires dedication and commitment. Give yourself credit for the work you’ve done and appreciate the positive impact it has on your daily life.
