Tag: homeowner

Moving into your first apartment or rental is exciting—until you realize no one else is going to scrub the sink, mop the floor, or take care of the dust that piles up. That’s when the thought of hiring a cleaning service pops into mind, whether it’s local options like maids Philadelphia or another trusted provider. And while a professional deep clean is a great way to hit reset, the truth is, you’ll still need to handle everyday upkeep yourself. The good news? Keeping a clean home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a few habits and some basic tools, you can manage it—even if you’ve never picked up a mop before.

This guide breaks down the basics of cleaning into simple steps so you can feel in control of your space.

Start with the Essentials

You don’t need a closet full of products to keep your home tidy. A few essentials go a long way:

• All-purpose cleaner for counters, tables, and most surfaces.
• Glass cleaner or vinegar-water mix for mirrors and windows.
• Disinfecting wipes or spray for high-touch spots like door handles.
• Microfiber cloths instead of paper towels—they’re reusable and more effective.
• Broom and dustpan, or a small vacuum for carpets and rugs.
• Mop or floor wipes for hard floors.
• Scrub brush and sponges for dishes, sinks, and tubs.

Start with these, and you can expand later if needed.

Build a Routine, Not a Marathon

The biggest mistake beginners make is waiting until things look bad, then trying to do everything at once. That’s exhausting and makes cleaning feel like a punishment. Instead, break it into small, regular tasks:

• Daily: Wash dishes, wipe kitchen counters, tidy up clutter, and take out trash when full.
• Weekly: Vacuum or sweep floors, clean the bathroom sink and toilet, wipe down mirrors, and dust surfaces.
• Monthly: Mop floors, clean the shower or tub, wipe baseboards, and tackle the inside of the microwave or fridge.

When you spread chores out, they become part of your routine instead of a dreaded all-day project.

Tackle One Room at a Time

If you’re new to cleaning, it’s easier to focus on one space instead of thinking about the entire home. Here’s a quick guide:

Kitchen

• Wipe counters daily and don’t let dishes pile up.
• Empty the trash before it smells.
• Once a week, clean the sink with soap and hot water—it collects more bacteria than you think.
• Every month, check the fridge and toss expired food.

Bathroom

• Keep disinfecting wipes handy to quickly clean the sink and faucet.
• Scrub the toilet weekly, and don’t forget the handle.
• Rinse the shower after use to reduce soap scum.
• Replace towels regularly—they hold onto moisture and odors.

Living Area

• Dust surfaces weekly—TV stands, shelves, and tables collect more than you notice.
• Vacuum rugs or sweep floors to avoid dirt build-up.
• Put items back in place to prevent clutter from spreading.

Bedroom

• Make the bed each morning. It instantly makes the room look neater.
• Wash sheets and pillowcases every one to two weeks.
• Keep dirty laundry in a hamper instead of on the floor.
• Wipe down nightstands or desks weekly.

Learn a Few Quick Fixes

Sometimes you don’t have time for a complete clean. That’s when quick tricks help:

• Clutter basket: Toss out-of-place items in a basket and put them away later.
• Ten-minute tidy: Set a timer, pick one area, and clean until the alarm goes off.
• One-touch rule: When you pick something up, put it where it belongs instead of setting it down again.

These shortcuts prevent small messes from turning into big ones.

Don’t Forget About Maintenance

Cleaning isn’t just about appearances—it keeps your space healthier. Dust, mold, and grime can affect air quality and even cause damage over time. Taking care of your space also makes it easier to get your deposit back when you move out.

If you feel stuck or your apartment hasn’t been cleaned in a while, that’s where a professional service can step in. A one-time deep clean can reset your space and make it easier to stay on top of things. After that, your regular habits will keep it manageable.

Final Thoughts

A tidy home doesn’t happen overnight. It’s built on small habits, simple tools, and a routine that works for your lifestyle. Whether you’re a student juggling classes, a first-time renter, or a young professional with long hours, cleaning doesn’t have to be another source of stress. Start small, be consistent, and know that calling in a cleaning service for a boost is always an option. With time, keeping your home clean will feel less like a chore and more like second nature.