Cleaning doesn’t have to be a dreaded weekend task. With a few clever tips and some everyday household items, you can make your routine faster, easier, and dare we say, more satisfying. These cleaning hacks are perfect for busy homes, budget-friendly, and full of “why didn’t I think of that?” moments. Ready to clean smarter, not harder? Let’s go.
Freshen Up Your Microwave with Just a Lemon
Place half a lemon in a bowl of water, microwave for 3–5 minutes, and let the steam loosen all the grime. Wipe clean with a microfibre cloth, no scrubbing needed. It leaves the microwave spotless and smelling fresh.
Use Dryer Sheets on Your Skirting Boards
Grab a dryer sheet and run it along your skirting boards to pick up dust and reduce static. It helps repel dust for longer and adds a subtle clean scent to the room.
Hoover Your Mattress (Then Steam It)
Give your mattress a quick once-over with the hoover, then run a steam cleaner over the surface to kill dust mites and refresh the fabric. It’s a game-changer between deep cleans, just make sure it dries fully before remaking the bed.
Sort Your Supplies with a Cleaning Caddy
Keep a cleaning caddy stocked with your essentials (microfibre cloths, spray bottles, gloves, etc.) and carry it room to room. No more running back and forth or forgetting something halfway through.
Unclog and Freshen Drains with Bicarb and Vinegar
Pour 50g of bicarbonate of soda down your plughole, followed by 125ml of white vinegar. Let it fizz for 10 minutes, then flush with boiling water. Great for keeping sinks and bathroom drains smelling fresh.
Vinegar + Water = Streak-Free Windows and Mirrors
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray and wipe with a microfibre cloth or scrunched newspaper for gleaming, streak-free glass.
Lint Roll Your Lampshades
Lampshades can trap dust and pet hair. A lint roller does the trick, gentle enough for fabric, but tough on fluff.
Tackle Grout with a Toothbrush and Bicarb
An old toothbrush and a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water will lift stains from bathroom grout. Give it a quick scrub, leave it for a few minutes, then rinse or steam clean for sparkling results.
Disinfect Sponges in the Microwave
Place a damp sponge in the microwave and heat it for one to two minutes to kill bacteria (avoid any with metal scrub pads). Let it cool before using.
Bonus Hack: Use Your Steam Cleaner Everywhere
A steam cleaner isn't just for floors, use it on tiles, shower screens, around taps, and even to freshen upholstery. It cleans without harsh chemicals and gives everything a deep, hygienic finish.