How To Clean Your Home When You Don't Know Where To Start

Sophia Belnap

Are you feeling overwhelmed by a cluttered or messy home? When you have a busy schedule, it can be easy for the housework to pile up. However, living in an untidy home can be more than just a minor nuisance; it can lead to some serious consequences, including anxiety, depression, or health risks. It can also increase your stress levels while preventing you from inviting friends and family into your home for some much-needed socializing.

When it comes to cleaning a messy home, it can be hard to know where to begin. Many times, this is because your current system just isn't working anymore. Giving yourself a fresh start and taking a step-by-step approach can help you enjoy a cleaner home, both immediately and long-term.

1. Take it One Room at a Time

When a cluttered house starts to feel overwhelming, it's best to take it just one room at a time rather than trying to clean everything in one day. This allows you to truly reorganize and clean without creating a bigger mess in the process. It can also help you stay motivated by completing a task and checking it off your list.

2. Start By Purging

Messes tend to pile up when you don't have ample space or storage for your belongings. Chances are, you need to get rid of the items that you no longer need, whether they're broken, outdated, or you just don't use them anymore. Try to create designated areas for everything you don't need to keep: one for selling, one for donating, and the other for trash.

3. Reorganize for Better Storage and Less Clutter

Once you've rid your home of the items you no longer need, it's time to reassign a storage spot for what's left. Make the most use of the space you already have by ordering a closet or drawer organizer to maximize space while giving everything its own place. Custom options are a great idea because they help reduce wasted space.

Next, consider what items can be moved to a different location altogether. If it's used rarely or seasonally, relocate it to your attic, basement, or other designated storage area. Move the items you use the most to an easy-to-reach spot. It may take some time to get used to a new layout, but it will be worth it to have a tidier home that's more functional for you and your family.

4. Tackle Dust, Dirt, and Bacteria

Once you can remove all clutter and put everything in its place, you'll finally be ready to address dirt and grime. Dusting should be your first step. Work from top to bottom to avoid creating a mess in an area you've already cleaned. Next, wipe surfaces to remove grime or bacteria as needed. Finish by sweeping or vacuuming to collect all of the debris that may have settled onto the floor.

If it's been a while since you've addressed the textiles in your home, you may need to begin by removing curtains, blankets, or bed linens from the room for washing. This is a great way to refresh your space by removing embedded dirt and allergens. It can also help control odors in your home.

5. Start a Cleaning Schedule and Stick to It

Unfortunately, cleaning your home is a continuous and never ending task. However, you can make the entire process faster and easier by creating a simple cleaning schedule. Organize chores into daily, weekly, and monthly categories. Try to set aside 15 to 20 minutes a day for cleaning. Maintaining a clean home can help you stay on top of housework while preventing huge, more time-consuming messes in the future.

A clean, tidy, and organized home can reduce stress, improve your health, and even boost your mood. By taking things one step at a time and following this simple plan, you can enjoy a cleaner home both now and in the future.