by Kristin Urbauer

Created on: December 09, 2009

House cleaning often looms large in the mind, but in reality, it does not have to be a difficult or time consuming task. The secret to cleaning your house is to have methods and systems you use to clean in the same manner each time. This alone will cut down on the time requirements of house cleaning. Following is a list of ten tips to clean your house quickly, easily and well.

Tip #1: De-clutter and pick up before beginning to clean.

If you include the concept of tidying in your definition of cleaning, change your definition. Cleaning involves removing dust and dirt from surfaces and disinfecting kitchens and bathrooms. It's a good idea to pick up your house prior to cleaning, as this will ensure that all surfaces are cleared and able to be cleaned. Complete this task the night before you plan on cleaning your house.

Tip #2: If you can't do it all at the same time set up a schedule and stick to it.

Though it's actually quicker and easier to do the house cleaning all at once, you may not be able to set aside the time needed to do so. In this case, set up a schedule, either by room or by area of the home. It is best to plan on at least 2 blocks of cleaning time a week of at least 1 hour each. This will allow enough time to get more involved rooms such as the kitchen or large master bathroom completed in 1 time block. Having at least 2 hours a week to devote to house cleaning will get most homes cleaned completely every 2-3 weeks, an acceptable time period for the majority of people.

Tip #3: Gather your supplies ahead of time.

The supplies and equipment you will need will differ somewhat depending on your home, the materials in it, and your personal preferences for particular cleaning products. In general, you will need the following: glass cleaner, dusting implement such as a feather duster or dusting cloth, polish, kitchen cleaner, bathroom cleaner, toilet brush, sponges, cleaning cloths, a vacuum, broom, damp mop and possibly a dust mop. Additionally, you may want a pumice stone, a mold or mildew remover, lime remover for hard water deposits and an extendable duster for reaching cobwebs.

It is best to place all your supplies in a bucket or cleaning caddy, allowing you to carry them from room to room with you. Cleaning cloths can go in a bag and if you will carry along a garbage bag, you can put used cloths in it to ensure that dirty cloths are not set on furniture or carpet where damage may occur.

Tip #4: Choose the order in which you will clean the rooms in

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