How To Clean Your Messy House : Simple Tips & Ideas

We’ve all been there. Life gets busy, and before you know it, your home starts looking more like a disaster zone than a cozy sanctuary. Whether it’s a pile of dirty dishes, laundry taking over every available surface, or toys scattered like confetti, cleaning a messy house can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—I’m here to guide you through it step by step. By breaking down the process, we’ll transform your home back into the organized, inviting space you love.

Creating a clean and organized home can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re facing a messy house filled with clutter and chaos. But with a solid game plan and a clear step-by-step process, you can transform your living areas into a nice clean house that brings peace and boosts your mental health. Let’s dive into some quick tips and strategies that will guide you through cleaning your whole house, tackling even the most challenging spaces like the master bedroom, laundry room, and those infamous junk drawers.

Step 1: Set the Mood and Mindset

Before you dive in, it’s important to set the right tone. Cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore—it can be a therapeutic, satisfying process. Start by putting on some of your favorite music, lighting a candle, or diffusing some essential oils. The goal is to create an environment that makes you feel good while you work.

Take a deep breath and remind yourself that you don’t have to do everything at once. It’s okay to start small. Celebrate every bit of progress you make. Remember, it’s not about perfection; it’s about improvement and reclaiming your space.

Step 2: Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have all the supplies you’ll need. Here’s a quick checklist to get you started:

• Trash bags: For any trash or items you’re ready to toss.
• Recycling bins: For items that can be recycled.
• Cleaning cloths or sponges: Microfiber cloths are great for dusting and general cleaning.
• All-purpose cleaner: A good cleaner can handle most surfaces.
• Vacuum or broom: Depending on the type of flooring.
• Mop and bucket: For any areas that need a deep clean.
• Laundry baskets: For collecting and sorting dirty laundry.
• Storage bins or baskets: To organize items as you go.
• Cleaning wipes

Having everything you need at your fingertips will prevent unnecessary distractions and make the process smoother.

Step 3: Start with the Most Visible Areas

When your house feels overwhelmingly messy, it’s best to start with the areas that are most visible or used most frequently. This could be the living room, kitchen, or entryway. Tackling these spaces first can provide a sense of immediate accomplishment and motivation to continue.

Living Room: The Heart of the Home

The living room is often the gathering place for family and friends, so it’s a great spot to start. Follow these steps:

1. Declutter: Begin by removing items that don’t belong in the living room. Grab a laundry basket or box and collect things that need to be returned to their proper places (e.g., books, toys, shoes). Once you’ve cleared the clutter, you can focus on cleaning.
2. Dusting: Dust all surfaces, starting from the top and working your way down. Don’t forget ceiling fans, shelves, and electronics. A microfiber cloth works wonders for trapping dust.
3. Vacuuming: Vacuum the floors, paying special attention to under furniture and in corners. If you have rugs or carpets, give them a thorough vacuuming.
4. Cushions and Upholstery: Fluff and straighten cushions. If your furniture allows, vacuum the upholstery to remove any crumbs or debris.
5. Final Touches: Arrange pillows, fold blankets, and make sure everything is tidy and in its place. A quick spray of fabric freshener or a scented candle can make the room feel even more inviting.

Kitchen: The Hub of Activity

The kitchen can quickly become a mess, especially if you’ve been too busy to keep up with dishes and other daily tasks. Here’s how to get it back in shape:

1. Clear the Counters: Start by clearing off the countertops. Put away small appliances that you don’t use daily and store items in their proper places. A clean counter instantly makes the kitchen feel more organized.
2. Dishes: Tackle the dishes next. If you have a dishwasher, load it up and start a cycle. If you’re washing by hand, fill the sink with warm, soapy water and get scrubbing. Once the dishes are done, dry them and put them away immediately to avoid more clutter.
3. Wipe Down Surfaces: With the kitchen counters clear, wipe them down with an all-purpose cleaner. Don’t forget the stovetop, microwave, and other frequently used surfaces. For stubborn grease, a specialized cleaner might be necessary.
4. Floors: Sweep or vacuum the kitchen floor, then mop to remove any sticky spots or spills.
5. Organize the Fridge: Take a few minutes to go through the fridge. Toss out any expired items, wipe down the shelves, and organize the contents. This small task can make meal prep much easier and more enjoyable.

Entryway: The First Impression

The entryway is the first thing people see when they come into your home, so it’s worth giving it some attention:

1. Declutter: Start by clearing out any shoes, bags, or coats that have piled up. Return items to their rightful places.
2. Dust and Clean: Dust any surfaces, clean mirrors, shelves, and light fixtures. Wipe down the door and doorknob, as these can get grimy from frequent use.
3. Floors: Sweep or vacuum the entryway floor, and mop if needed. If you have a doormat, give it a good shake or vacuum to remove dirt.
4. Final Touches: Add a welcoming touch, like a vase of fresh flowers or a small bowl for keys and mail.

Step 4: Declutter Room by Room

Once the main areas are clean, it’s time to tackle the rest of the house. The key to staying organized and not getting overwhelmed is to focus on one room at a time. Here’s how to approach each space:

Bedroom: Your Personal Sanctuary

The bedroom should be a peaceful retreat, but it can easily become a dumping ground for clothes, books, and other items. Here’s how to restore order:

1. Start with the Bed: Making the bed instantly makes the room look tidier. Plus, it gives you a clean surface to sort items.
2. Declutter: Go through your bedroom and remove anything that doesn’t belong. Clothes should go in the closet or laundry, books back on shelves, and personal items into drawers or storage.
3. Closet Organization: If your closet is overflowing, take some time to sort through your clothes. Donate anything you no longer wear, and organize the rest by category (e.g., shirts, pants, dresses). Consider using storage bins or shelf dividers to keep everything neat.
4. Dust and Clean: Dust all surfaces, including nightstands, dressers, and lamps. Vacuum the floor, and don’t forget to clean under the bed.
5. Final Touches: Arrange pillows, add a cozy throw blanket, and perhaps light a candle or add a diffuser to create a relaxing atmosphere.

Bathroom: A Fresh Start

Bathrooms can accumulate clutter and grime quickly. Here’s how to get them sparkling clean:

1. Declutter Surfaces: Clear off the countertop, putting away toiletries and other items. Toss out empty bottles or expired products.
2. Clean the Mirror and Sink: Use a glass cleaner for the mirror, and an all-purpose cleaner for the sink and countertop. Pay attention to faucets and handles, which can harbor germs.
3. Scrub the Shower and Tub: Use a bathroom cleaner to scrub the shower walls, tub, and fixtures. If you have any mildew or soap scum, a specialized cleaner or a homemade solution (like vinegar and baking soda) can do the trick.
4. Toilet: Clean the toilet bowl with a toilet cleaner and brush. Don’t forget to wipe down the outside, including the handle.
5. Floors: Sweep or vacuum the bathroom floor, then mop to remove any residue.
6. Final Touches: Replace towels, restock toilet paper, and add any decorative touches like a plant or scented candle.

Home Office: Productivity Central

A cluttered workspace can make it hard to focus and be productive. Here’s how to get your home office in order:

1. Clear the Desk: Start by clearing everything off your desk. Sort through papers, tossing anything you don’t need, and filing important documents.
2. Organize Supplies: Keep only the essentials on your desk—like a computer, notepad, and pen holder. Store other supplies in drawers or on shelves.
3. Dust and Clean: Dust your desk, computer, and other equipment. Wipe down surfaces with a gentle cleaner.
4. Sort Cords and Wires: Untangle and organize cords and wires. Consider using cable organizers or ties to keep them neat and out of sight.
5. Final Touches: Add a plant, photo, or another personal touch to make the space feel inviting and inspiring.

Step 5: Focus on Storage Solutions

As you declutter and clean, you may realize that part of the problem is a lack of storage or organization. Here are some storage solutions to help keep your home tidy:

• Shelving: Adding shelves to rooms like the living room, bathroom, or bedroom can give you more space to store items and display decor.
• Bins and Baskets: Bins and baskets are great for organizing smaller items. Use them in closets, under beds, or on shelves to keep everything in its place.
• Drawer Organizers: Drawer organizers can help keep small items like utensils, office supplies, or toiletries from getting jumbled together.
• Hooks and Racks: Install hooks or racks in entryways, bathrooms, or bedrooms to hang coats, towels, or bags.
• Labeling: Labeling bins, baskets, and drawers can make it easier for everyone in the household to know where things go and help maintain order.

Step 6: Establish a Cleaning Routine

Once your home is clean and organized, the key to keeping it that way is to establish a consistent cleaning routine. This routine doesn’t need to be time-consuming or overwhelming; rather, it’s about maintaining the progress you’ve made with small, regular efforts. By incorporating daily, weekly, and monthly tasks into your routine, you’ll ensure that your home stays tidy and inviting without the need for another major cleaning marathon.

Daily Tasks

Daily cleaning tasks are small, simple activities that help keep your home neat and prevent clutter from piling up. By taking just a few minutes each day to complete these tasks, you’ll find it much easier to maintain a clean and organized home.

1. Make the Bed: Starting your day by making the bed instantly makes your bedroom look more put-together and sets a productive tone for the rest of the day.
2. Tidy Up Surfaces: Spend a few minutes clearing off countertops, tables, and other surfaces. Put away any items that are out of place, and wipe down surfaces to keep them clean.
3. Do the Dishes: Wash dishes after every meal or load them into the dishwasher. This prevents dishes from piling up and keeps your kitchen looking clean and fresh.
4. Sort Mail and Papers: Deal with mail and paperwork as soon as it comes in. Sort it into categories (e.g., bills, junk mail, important documents) and file or discard it immediately.
5. Quick Sweep or Vacuum: High-traffic areas like the kitchen and entryway can benefit from a quick sweep or vacuum each day to remove dirt and crumbs.
6. Laundry: Consider doing a small load of laundry daily or every other day, especially if you have a large household. This keeps laundry from becoming an overwhelming task.

Weekly Tasks

Weekly tasks are slightly more involved and help keep your home looking its best. Designate one or two days each week to focus on these chores.

1. Dusting: Dust all surfaces in your home, including shelves, furniture, light fixtures, and electronics. Start from the top and work your way down to avoid spreading dust onto already cleaned surfaces.
2. Vacuuming and Mopping: Vacuum all carpets, rugs, and hard floors. Follow up by mopping hard floors to remove any dirt or spills. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas and entryways.
3. Bathroom Cleaning: Give your bathroom a thorough clean once a week. Scrub the toilet, sink, shower, and tub, and wipe down mirrors and countertops. Replace towels and restock toiletries as needed.
4. Kitchen Deep Clean: In addition to your daily tasks, spend some time each week deep cleaning the kitchen. Wipe down appliances, clean the microwave, sanitize countertops, and empty the trash and recycling.
5. Change Bedding: Wash and change bed linens weekly to keep your bedroom feeling fresh and clean. This also helps reduce allergens and dust mites.
6. Tidy Up Each Room: Spend a few minutes in each room tidying up. Put away items that don’t belong, straighten up pillows and blankets, and make sure everything is in its place.

Monthly Tasks

Monthly tasks involve deeper cleaning and maintenance that don’t need to be done as frequently but are still important for keeping your home in great condition.

1. Clean Windows and Mirrors: Clean the inside of your windows and mirrors throughout your home. This brightens your space and allows more natural light to enter.
2. Appliance Maintenance: Give your larger appliances some attention. Clean the inside of your refrigerator, run a cleaning cycle on your dishwasher and washing machine, and wipe down the oven.
3. Declutter Closets and Drawers: Go through closets and drawers to remove items you no longer need. This is a great time to donate clothes and household items that are no longer in use.
4. Deep Clean Carpets and Rugs: Depending on the amount of foot traffic, consider deep cleaning your carpets and rugs. You can rent a machine or hire a professional for this task.
5. Inspect and Clean Light Fixtures: Dust and clean light fixtures, ceiling fans, and vents to prevent dust buildup. This also improves the air quality in your home.
6. Check Smoke Detectors and HVAC Filters: Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors monthly to ensure they’re working properly. Replace HVAC filters to maintain good air quality and system efficiency.

Step 7: Involve the Whole Family

Keeping your home clean shouldn’t fall on one person’s shoulders. Involving everyone in the household not only lightens the load but also teaches responsibility and teamwork. Here’s how you can do it:

Assign Age-Appropriate Tasks

Give each family member tasks that are suitable for their age and abilities. For example:

• Young children: They can help with simple tasks like picking up toys, dusting lower shelves, or putting away their shoes.
• Older children and teens: Assign more challenging tasks like vacuuming, cleaning their own rooms, taking out the trash, or helping with laundry.
• Adults: Divide more complex chores like deep cleaning the kitchen, bathrooms, and managing household bills and paperwork.

Make It Fun

Turn cleaning into a fun activity. Play upbeat music, set timers for “cleaning challenges,” or create a game where everyone races to see who can complete their tasks the quickest. You can also offer rewards, like a family movie night or a special treat, once the chores are done.

Create a Family Cleaning Schedule

Post a weekly cleaning schedule in a common area, like the kitchen or living room. Make sure everyone knows their responsibilities for the week. A visual reminder helps keep everyone accountable and ensures that chores are evenly distributed.

Step 8: Tackle Seasonal Cleaning

In addition to daily, weekly, and monthly tasks, seasonal cleaning is crucial for deep cleaning and home maintenance. Seasonal cleaning typically occurs during spring and fall and involves tasks that you don’t need to do regularly but are essential for keeping your home in good shape.

Spring Cleaning

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home after a long winter. Here’s what you should focus on:

1. Declutter and Donate: Go through each room and declutter. Spring is a great time to donate items you no longer need or use. Be ruthless—if you haven’t used something in a year, it’s time to let it go.
2. Deep Clean Carpets and Upholstery: Hire a professional or rent a machine to deep clean carpets and upholstered furniture. This helps remove dust, allergens, and any accumulated dirt.
3. Clean Windows and Screens: Wash windows and window screens to allow in more natural light. Don’t forget to clean window tracks and sills.
4. Wash Curtains and Blinds: Take down curtains and wash them according to their care instructions. Dust and clean blinds thoroughly.
5. Organize Outdoor Spaces: Clean and organize your garage, shed, or patio. Remove debris from the yard, trim bushes, and prepare your garden for planting.
6. Check Smoke Detectors and HVAC: Replace batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Have your HVAC system serviced to ensure it’s ready for warmer weather.

Fall Cleaning

Fall cleaning helps prepare your home for the colder months ahead. Focus on these tasks:

1. Clean Gutters: Remove leaves and debris from gutters to prevent blockages that can cause water damage.
2. Inspect and Clean the Fireplace: If you have a fireplace, have it inspected and cleaned before using it in the winter. This prevents creosote buildup and ensures safe operation.
3. Store Summer Gear: Clean and store outdoor furniture, grills, and summer sports equipment. Organize your garage or shed to make room for winter items.
4. Check Insulation and Weather Stripping: Inspect your home’s insulation and weather stripping to ensure it’s sufficient for keeping the cold out. Replace any damaged or worn-out materials.
5. Prepare for the Holidays: If you host holiday gatherings, take some time to declutter and deep clean the guest room, dining area, and any spaces where you’ll entertain guests.
6. Clean Light Fixtures and Fans: Dust and clean light fixtures, ceiling fans, and vents. This helps improve indoor air quality during the months when you’ll have the windows closed more often.

Step 9: Celebrate Your Success

Once you’ve cleaned your entire house, take a moment to celebrate your accomplishment. Cleaning a messy house is no small feat, and you deserve to acknowledge your hard work. Here are some ways to reward yourself:

• Relax and Enjoy: Spend some time enjoying your clean and organized space. Make yourself a cup of tea or coffee, put on your favorite show, and relax.
• Invite Friends Over: Now that your home is clean and welcoming, why not invite friends or family over for a gathering? Sharing your space with loved ones can be a great way to celebrate.
• Treat Yourself: Consider treating yourself to something special—whether it’s a new book, a cozy blanket, or even just a long soak in the bath. You’ve earned it!
• Plan Your Next Project: If cleaning and organizing your home has inspired you, consider planning your next home project. Whether it’s redecorating a room, starting a DIY project, or organizing a new space, keep the momentum going.

Step 10: Maintain a Clean Home Moving Forward

Keeping your home clean and organized is an ongoing process, but with the systems and routines you’ve established, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some tips for maintaining your clean home:

Adopt the “One In, One Out” Rule

For every new item you bring into your home, consider donating or discarding an old one. This rule helps prevent clutter from building up and ensures you’re only keeping things you truly need or love.

Designate a Place for Everything

Make sure every item in your home has a designated place. This makes tidying up quicker and helps you and your family maintain order. Label bins, drawers, and shelves if necessary to ensure everyone knows where things belong.

Quick Daily Pick-Ups

Spend 10-15 minutes each day doing a quick pick-up around the house. Put things back where they belong, do a quick sweep or vacuum, and wipe down surfaces. This small daily investment of time keeps clutter from accumulating.

Stay on Top of Paperwork

Paperwork can quickly become overwhelming. Set up a system for dealing with mail and documents as soon as they come in. Sort, file, and discard papers regularly to keep your home office or kitchen counter from being overrun.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

If you find maintaining your home is too much to handle on your own, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether it’s hiring a cleaning service for a deep clean or getting family members to pitch in more regularly, there’s no shame in needing assistance.

Conclusion: A Clean Home, A Clear Mind

Cleaning a messy house may seem daunting, but by breaking it down into manageable steps and establishing a routine, you can keep your home looking its best. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s about creating a space where you feel comfortable, relaxed, and happy.

So take it one step at a time, involve the whole family, and don’t forget to celebrate your successes along the way. A clean and organized home not only improves your physical environment but also your mental well-being. Here’s to a cleaner, happier home!

Tips and Tricks for a Lasting Tidy Home

Get the Whole Family Involved: The best way to keep your house clean is to involve the whole family. Assign age-appropriate cleaning tasks to each family member and make it part of your daily routine. Even small children can help by putting toys away or helping to dust with a feather duster.

Reduce Clutter: Every few months, take time to go through your house and decide what you need to keep, donate, or throw away. A less cluttered home is easier to clean and maintain.

Use the Right Tools: Invest in good-quality cleaning supplies like microfiber cloths, a sturdy vacuum cleaner for hard floors and carpets, and an effective glass cleaner. These can make the cleaning process quicker and more efficient.

Create a Cleaning Checklist: A checklist can help you track what needs to be cleaned in each room of the house. This keeps you organized and ensures that no task is overlooked.

Reward Yourself: After a hard day’s cleaning, reward yourself with some relaxation time. Watch a favorite TV show, read a book, or have a special treat. It’s a great way to motivate yourself and celebrate the hard work you’ve put into cleaning your home.

Stay Consistent: The key to a clean house is consistency. Even on busy days, try to do a little bit—whether it’s wiping down the dining room table or putting away clean dishes. Small steps, performed regularly, go a long way in keeping your living space neat and tidy.

Remember, cleaning a messy house doesn’t have to be a chore that you dread. Break it down into smaller steps, involve your family, and keep your end goal in mind: a tidy, peaceful home where you can relax and enjoy the company of those you love. Here’s to less mess and more memories in your clean home!

How To Prevent Your Home From Getting Into A Mess In The First Place!

The best antidote to a messy house is to not let it get that way in the first place. So while you are cleaning it now, here are some tips to keep it that way so you don’t need help to clean a really messy house again (or at least not as bad)

1. Clear any unwanted clutter and be as minimal as possible. The less clutter and unwanted stuff, the easier it is to keep tidy.
2. Properly organize. If everything has a proper place, it’s easier to put it back straight away.
3. Build routines. Make some tasks part of your daily routine. For example: put your clean dishes away from the dishwasher in the morning and fill it up with dirty dishes throughout the day, then wash at night. This stops a backlog of dishes. This can be done with lots of tasks in the home.
4. Share the workload. Teaching your children to clean up after themselves is a great time saver for cleaning your rooms and their bedrooms. Even if it’s just a little, it helps. You can also get your partner to do a few regular tasks each day to keep on top of everything. This makes the rest of the work feel less daunting for you.

Cleaning Your Home FAQ’s

Do I have to follow these steps in this order?

Of course not. This is a guideline and a way to help you overcome the overwhelming prospect of cleaning a really messy house. You can use this guideline and adjust it to whatever suits you best.

Should I use cleaning materials?

This is up to you. If it’s just messy but not dirty, then this isn’t necessary, but if your home needs a deep clean and is filthy, then maybe using some cleaning materials is a good idea.

Is there anything I can buy to help keep my home tidy?

If you are someone with lots of things and prefer to do a generalised clean, then buying some storage boxes can be really helpful in tidying up a home that’s chaotic. They can be really useful in storing items that tend to get strewn everywhere but aren’t all that necessary to your everyday living. They are also great for small toys that get spread around the house, to have them in one place/ box.

So there you have a step-by-step approach to cleaning your messy house. Hopefully, reading this has given you the much-needed nudge to start going about cleaning up and making your home feel nice, clean, and relaxing. You can’t properly enjoy your home when it’s a mess and you can’t properly function.

If you just put some music on and get down to it, you will have a lovely home in no time.

How Often Should I Do House Chores? 

This really depends on how much time someone has available, as well as their personal preferences when it comes to house tidiness versus messiness. However, we recommend making house work a routine every week.

What Should I Do If My House Is Too Messy For Guests To Come Over? 

If you find your house is just not ready, then it’s okay! Just take the time and make a plan to get things done in order to eventually be able to invite people over again without feeling embarrassed. If there are areas of the house which are particularly dirty or smelly, then clean those first before tackling other tasks like tidying up bedrooms or clearing out closets. 

Why Is My House A Mess?

There are many reasons why a person’s entire house might be messy. Some people may live in a mess because they don’t know how to clean well, or they find cleanup tedious. Other people may live in a mess because they get too overwhelmed by the sheer size of their house, and so cleaning it seems impossible.

Given that there are so many reasons for why someone might live in a messy household, there is no real answer to this question. However, we can say that the solutions exist somewhere between addressing the problem and living in a perpetual disaster area.