Now that spring is finally here, it’s the perfect time to deep clean and declutter our homes to give them a much-needed refresh. If you're like me, a huge to-do list can feel quite overwhelming, and it's hard to figure out where to start. What’s more, you’ll probably benefit from quick methods on how to cut your spring cleaning time in half.
That’s why I decided to call on the cleaning experts to share their top hacks for cleaning in under 15 minutes (micro-cleaning) and still achieve sparkling results. Not only will these tips help you to be strategic with your tasks, but they will also help you be more efficient with your time (and manual labor).
So before you get out your cleaning essentials and best vacuum cleaner, try these expert-approved hacks.
1. Set your timer (and stick to it!)
First, set a timer on your watch or phone for 15 minutes. This technique involves breaking your total cleaning time into three five-minute segments, with one task for each interval.
“Knowing how much time is left on the clock helps keep you focused and stops you from thinking too long about what task to complete next,” states Elena Navarro, cleaning expert and professional organizer at Sparkly Maid Austin.
I divide my 15-minute cleaning time into three zones of approximately five minutes each
Elena Navarro, cleaning expert and professional organizer
“I divide my 15-minute cleaning time into three zones of approximately five minutes each, usually the kitchen, the bathroom, and the main living area, and I complete each zone rapidly without revisiting previous zones.”
This ‘zoning’ trick stops us from making the usual cleaning mistake of trying to spring clean every room at one time. That manic urge to cover every room just adds to the overwhelm, and means we don't give enough focus to specific spots.
Plus, don’t forget to spring clean this one common household item.
2. Always carry a fully stocked cleaning caddy
Another simple yet handy trick is to keep a fully-stocked cleaning caddy with you as you move around. This simple yet effective trick means you won't lose focus or waste time stopping to fetch supplies from the kitchen or elsewhere. And I've definitely paused my cleaning flow because I didn't have the right glass cleaner or furniture polish at hand.
“I maintain a cleaning caddy fully stocked and ready to take with me at all times,” says Navarro. “Spending the first five minutes searching for the various cleaners, rags, and gloves needed for cleaning under different sinks will mean that your 15 minutes are already gone.
“A caddy containing an all-purpose cleaner, a glass cleaner, microfiber cloths, and a scrub brush accompanies me from room to room.”
As with any task, having the correct equipment is vital. Check that your cleaning essentials are well-maintained to get the best possible results, and throw out and replace any worn or broken tools or appliances in your cleaning caddy.
“Make sure your tools are maintained and in good working order,” agrees Ashley Kidder, founder/CEO of Dashing Maids. “If your tools are not effective, it will simply take you longer to clean. You don't need the fanciest fad gadgets, but a working squeegee with a smooth edge for cleaning windows will ensure a quick clean/dry.”
Just beware of this one mistake that can damage your vacuum cleaner, or these 5 spring cleaning hacks that are quietly wrecking your floors.
3. Focus on small jobs that don’t take long
When it comes to micro cleaning, experts recommend just cleaning in short sessions. This is especially the case when time is of the essence.
“Focus on those small jobs that don’t take long to complete but often don’t get a look-in,” advises Heather Nixon, sustainability, NPD and regulatory manager at Bio-D. "Tasks include wiping down skirting boards, organizing your ‘junk drawer’, vacuuming your mattress, organizing your fridge contents, cleaning door handles/light switches and cleaning inside the microwave.”
If you need to declutter and have limited time, it’s wise to focus on the rooms or spaces that you frequently use. “The first thing is to prioritize what rooms people will be going into,” advises Barbara Brock, professional organizer and founder of Barbara Brock Inc.
“These are the rooms you want to focus on first – especially the kitchen. Focus on table tops or surfaces. If they are clear, everything else will seem cleaner and more organized.”
Brock also advises having an empty tub handy to put unnecessary items, remove items and put them in a closet to be edited later — if you need to quickly remove items.
So if you practice this ‘micro’ spring cleaning method, you'll quickly build new habits that will not only get the job done quicker, but also boost your well-being and happiness this season.
You might also be interested in our spring cleaning deep dive: Experts reveal why we do it and what to tackle.
