6 Genius Cleaning Tricks That Actually Work, According to Pro Housekeepers
Cleaning your home doesn’t have to be a tedious, time-consuming chore. With the right tricks and techniques, you can tackle even the toughest messes efficiently and effectively. Professional housekeepers have shared their top cleaning hacks to make your life easier and your home spotless. In this guide, I’ll reveal six genius cleaning tricks that actually work, so you can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your sparkling space. Let’s dive in!
1. Use a Squeegee to Remove Pet Hair
Why It Works:
A squeegee’s rubber edge is perfect for lifting pet hair from carpets, upholstery, and even hard floors.
How to Do It:
- Drag the squeegee across the surface in short, firm strokes.
- Collect the hair into a pile and dispose of it.
- For upholstery, use a damp squeegee to grab even more hair.
2. Clean Your Microwave with Lemon and Water
Why It Works:
The steam from boiling lemon water loosens food splatters and leaves your microwave smelling fresh.
How to Do It:
- Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water and add a few lemon slices.
- Microwave on high for 3–5 minutes, or until the water boils and the window is steamy.
- Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe down the interior with a damp cloth.
3. Use Dryer Sheets to Dust
Why It Works:
Dryer sheets are designed to reduce static, making them perfect for picking up dust and preventing it from resettling.
How to Do It:
- Use a used dryer sheet to wipe down surfaces like baseboards, blinds, and electronics.
- The sheet will attract and hold onto dust, leaving surfaces clean and static-free.
4. Clean Grout with Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide
Why It Works:
Baking soda is a gentle abrasive, and hydrogen peroxide is a natural disinfectant. Together, they remove stains and kill bacteria.
How to Do It:
- Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to form a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to the grout lines using an old toothbrush.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then scrub and rinse with water.
5. Use a Pillowcase to Clean Ceiling Fan Blades
Why It Works:
A pillowcase traps dust as you wipe, preventing it from falling onto your furniture or floors.
How to Do It:
- Slide a pillowcase over each fan blade.
- Grip the blade through the fabric and pull the pillowcase toward you, collecting the dust inside.
- Shake out the pillowcase outside or wash it to remove the dust.
6. Polish Stainless Steel with Baby Oil
Why It Works:
Baby oil removes fingerprints and smudges while leaving a protective shine.
How to Do It:
- Apply a small amount of baby oil to a microfiber cloth.
- Wipe down stainless steel appliances in the direction of the grain.
- Buff with a clean cloth for a streak-free shine.
Tips for Success
- Work Top to Bottom: Always start cleaning from the highest point in a room and work your way down to avoid re-cleaning.
- Use the Right Tools: Invest in quality cleaning tools like microfiber cloths, scrub brushes, and extendable dusters.
- Clean Regularly: Frequent, light cleaning is easier than tackling deep cleaning all at once.
When to Call a Professional
While these tricks are great for everyday cleaning, there are times when professional help might be needed:
- If you’re dealing with mold, mildew, or water damage.
- If your home requires deep cleaning or specialized treatments.
- If you’re short on time and need a thorough, professional clean.
By incorporating these six genius cleaning tricks into your routine, you can keep your home looking its best with minimal effort. Whether you’re dealing with pet hair, grimy grout, or dusty ceiling fans, these pro-approved hacks will make cleaning a breeze.
