10 Genius Cleaning Hacks to Save Time for Busy Bees

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Updated byPenny
10 Genius Cleaning Hacks to Save Time for Busy Bees

Keeping a clean home is essential for a healthy and happy life, but it can be challenging to find the time to clean when you have a busy schedule.

Fortunately, there are many time-saving cleaning hacks that can help you keep your home in order without sacrificing your precious time.

In this post, I share my top 10 cleaning hacks for super busy people that will help you clean your home in less time and with less effort.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent, or just someone who wants to spend less time cleaning, these hacks will help you save time and energy while keeping your home clean and tidy.

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Hack 1: Multitask

Cleaning can be time-consuming. But what if you could clean and do other tasks at the same time? Multitasking cleaning is all about using your time efficiently and getting more done in less time.

Here are a few tips to help you get started:

  • Clean while you cook: While you’re waiting for your food to cook, use that time to clean up any dishes or utensils you no longer need.
  • Clean while you shower: While you’re waiting for your conditioner to set in, use that time to clean your shower or tub. You can even use a squeegee to quickly wipe down the walls and prevent soap scum buildup.
  • Clean while you talk on the phone: Instead of just sitting and talking on the phone, use that time to clean up any clutter around you. You can quickly pick up any clothes or toys lying around, or even dust your furniture while you chat.

Hack 2: Clean up as you go

woman wiping a surface

One of the best ways to save time is to clean as you go. This means that you don’t wait until everything is dirty before you start cleaning. Instead, you clean things up as soon as they get dirty.

Here are a few tips to help you clean as you go:

  • Wipe up spills as soon as they happen. This will prevent them from drying and becoming harder to clean later on.
  • Put things away as soon as you’re done using them. This will prevent clutter from building up and make it easier to clean later on.
  • Wash dishes as you use them instead of letting them pile up in the sink.

Another benefit of cleaning as you go is that it will help you stay organized. When everything has its place, it’s easier to find things when you need them. You won’t waste time searching for things that are buried under clutter.

Hack 3: Prioritize

Prioritizing cleaning tasks can help you stay on top of things without feeling overwhelmed.

Here are a few tips to help you prioritize your cleaning tasks and save time:

  • Start with the most important tasks: Focus on the areas that are most important to keep clean, such as the kitchen and bathroom. These areas tend to get dirty quickly and require frequent cleaning.
  • Make a schedule: Create a cleaning schedule that works for you. Decide which tasks need to be done daily, weekly, and monthly. This will help you stay on track and prevent tasks from piling up.
  • Delegate tasks: If you have family members or roommates, delegate cleaning tasks to them. This will help lighten your load and ensure that everyone is doing their part to keep the home clean.

Some tasks can be done less frequently without compromising the cleanliness of your home.

Here are a few examples:

  • Mopping: Mopping the floors can wait if you’re short on time. Instead, spot clean any sticky or grimy spots with a microfiber cloth or a Magic Eraser.
  • Scrubbing the tub or shower: Unless it’s visibly dirty, you can skip scrubbing the tub or shower every day. Instead, wipe down the surfaces with a squeegee after each use to prevent soap scum buildup.
  • Dusting: While it’s important to dust regularly, you don’t need to do it every day. Focus on the areas that collect the most dust, such as bookshelves and electronics.

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Hack 4: Use the right cleaning tools

woman vacuuming

Having the right tools can make all the difference in the world. Not only can it save you time, but it can also make the cleaning process more efficient and effective.

Here are a few time-saving cleaning hacks that involve using the right cleaning tools:

  • Microfiber cloths: Microfiber cloths are a must-have for any cleaning arsenal. They are super absorbent and can pick up dirt and grime with ease. Plus, they can be washed and reused, making them an eco-friendly option. Use them to clean surfaces like countertops, sinks, and mirrors.
  • Vacuum cleaner: If you have carpets or rugs in your home, investing in a good vacuum cleaner can save you a lot of time and energy. Look for one with strong suction power and a HEPA filter to trap allergens and dust. A cordless cleaner makes it even more convenient to pick up as and when required. I love my Shark stick vacuum for quick cleanups.
  • Broom and dustpan: For hard floors, a broom and dustpan can be a quick and easy way to clean up messes. Look for a broom with soft bristles that won’t scratch your floors, and a dustpan with a rubber edge to pick up all the dirt and debris.
  • Squeegee: If you have glass shower doors or windows, a squeegee can be a game-changer. Use it to quickly remove water spots and prevent soap scum buildup.

Hack 5: Declutter

One of the biggest sources of stress in a home is clutter. It can be difficult to find what you need, and it can make cleaning take much longer than it needs to. When there are fewer items to clean and organize, it takes less time to do so.

Here are some ways to make decluttering a regular part of your routine:

  • Set a timer for 15 minutes and tackle one area at a time
  • Make it a game by seeing how many items you can get rid of in a certain amount of time
  • Donate items that are still in good condition to a local charity or thrift store
  • Get rid of anything that you haven’t used in the past year
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Hack 6: Create a cleaning schedule

creating a cleaning schedule

One of the best ways to save time when cleaning is to create a cleaning schedule. By doing so, you can break down your cleaning tasks into manageable chunks, and ensure that everything gets done on a regular basis.

Here are some tips to help you create a cleaning schedule that works for you:

  • Start by making a list of all the cleaning tasks you need to do regularly, such as vacuuming, dusting, and cleaning the bathrooms.
  • Decide how often each task needs to be done. For example, you may need to vacuum the living room every day, but only clean the windows once a month.
  • Assign each task to a specific day or time. For example, you may decide to vacuum on Mondays, dust on Wednesdays, and clean the bathrooms on Fridays.
  • Be realistic about how much time you have available for cleaning each day. Don’t try to do too much at once, or you’ll quickly become overwhelmed.
  • Consider using a cleaning app or tool to help you stay on track. There are many apps available that can help you create a schedule, set reminders, and track your progress.

It may take a little bit of effort to get started, but once you have a system in place, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!

Hack 7: Get help

Cleaning your home can be a daunting task, especially if you have a busy schedule. However, you don’t have to do it all by yourself. Enlisting help can save you time and make it all less overwhelming.

Here are some tips:

  • Assign tasks: If you have family members or roommates, assign specific cleaning tasks to each person. This way, everyone contributes, and the workload is divided, making it more manageable.
  • Hire a professional: Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to come in and take care of the deep cleaning. This can be especially helpful if you have a big event coming up or just need a break from cleaning.
  • Trade services: If you have a friend who is also in need of some cleaning assistance, consider trading services. You can help each other out and get the cleaning done faster.

Cleaning doesn’t have to be a solo job. Having company can also make the cleaning process more enjoyable!

Hack 8: Invest in time-saving appliances

robot vacuum

These appliances can save you time and effort, making cleaning less of a chore. Here are a few appliances that are worth the investment:

  • Robot vacuum: A robot vacuum can save you a lot of time and effort. These vacuums can clean your floors while you relax or do other things. They can also be programmed to clean at specific times, so you don’t have to worry about it.
  • Dishwasher: A dishwasher can save you a lot of time and effort.
  • Steam cleaner: A steam cleaner can be a great investment if you have a lot of hard floors. They can clean and sanitize floors without the need for harsh chemicals or a lot of elbow grease.

Investing in these appliances can be a bit expensive, but they can save you a lot of time in the long run. Plus, they can make cleaning less of a chore.

Hack 9: Use natural cleaning solutions

natural cleaning solutions

Here at SparklingPenny, we are very keen on natural cleaning solutions.

Having these natural solutions on hand can save you the bother of buying lots of different cleaners:

  • Use white distilled vinegar or apple cider vinegar to clean your windows, mirrors, and countertops. Dilute it in water first in equal parts for best results.
  • Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and abrasive that can be used to clean sinks, toilets, and even ovens. Mix it with water to create a paste and scrub away.
  • Lemon is a natural disinfectant that can be used to clean cutting boards, countertops, and even microwave ovens. Cut a lemon in half and rub it over the surface you want to clean.
  • Essential oils like tea tree oil and lavender oil have antimicrobial properties that make them great for cleaning. Add a few drops to your cleaning solution for a fresh scent and added cleaning power.

Hack 10: Clean smarter, not harder

When it comes to cleaning, the key is to work smarter, not harder.

With these simple tips, you can save time and energy while keeping your home sparkling clean.

  1. Create a cleaning schedule that works for you. Every household is different, so tailor your cleaning routine to your needs. Write down the tasks that need to be done daily, weekly, monthly, or seasonally. Having a plan in place will help you stay organized and focused. Check out my 10 minute cleaning schedule here.
  2. Invest in the right tools and products. There are plenty of cleaning hacks out there, but not all of them are effective. Stick to tried-and-true products that work for you, and invest in high-quality cleaning tools that will last. For example, a good vacuum cleaner can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your floors clean.
  3. Tackle one room at a time. Instead of trying to clean your entire house in one day, focus on one room at a time. This will help you stay focused and avoid getting overwhelmed. Plus, you’ll be able to see the progress you’re making as you move from room to room.
  4. Finally, don’t be afraid to delegate. If you have family members or roommates, assign cleaning tasks to everyone. This will not only save you time, but it will also teach responsibility and teamwork.
Sparkling Penny

Penny | Sparkling Penny

Penny’s expert cleaning advice has been featured repeatedly by Homes and Gardens Magazine, and also at wikiHow, The Daily Express Newspaper, and Glam Magazine to name a few! SparklingPenny.com was founded in 2019 and has since helped millions of people achieve a cleaner living space.


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Discover 10 brilliant cleaning hacks that will you save time and effort. From easy kitchen cleaning tips to smart bathroom tricks, these genius hacks will make your life easier and your home cleaner than ever before.