We’ve all been there—someone calls and says they’ll be over in 30 minutes, and suddenly, you’re in a cleaning frenzy. In situations like this, there’s no time for perfection, fresh flowers, or window cleaning. Instead, it’s about pulling off some Wonder Woman-level moves to save the day with quick cleaning hacks! Here’s how you can tackle the most important areas—your living room, kitchen, and guest bathroom—so your home is presentable in no time.
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1. Light Some Candles to Mask Unpleasant Smells
Before you do anything, light a few scented candles to get rid of any unpleasant odors lingering in your home. This will create a more inviting atmosphere while you zip through your speed-cleaning routine. Choose fresh or calming scents like lavender, citrus, or vanilla to make your home smell clean and cozy for your guests.
2. Clear the Kitchen Counters First
The kitchen is often the heart of the home, so make it a priority. Start by dealing with any garbage or leftover food. Dishes piling up? No worries—stack them in the sink for now. If you have larger kitchen items or clutter you don’t want guests to see, hide them in a nearby room or, in an emergency, stash them in the oven. Just be sure to leave yourself a note so you don’t accidentally preheat the oven with dishes inside!
Discover essential quick cleaning hacks that will help you efficiently speed clean your home, ensuring it’s guest-ready in no time—keep reading!
3. Use Laundry Baskets to Gather Clutter
Grab your laundry baskets and start filling them with all the random clutter lying around. Don’t stress about where things belong—just fill up those baskets and place them in rooms your guests won’t enter. As you move through the house, close any cupboards, drawers, or doors that are open. If you have any furniture spots you’re embarrassed about, throw a blanket over them to hide the mess.
4. Focus on Horizontal Surfaces
Once the clutter is hidden, it’s time to “clean” the horizontal surfaces. A cordless vacuum is your best friend for quickly vacuuming rugs and hardwood floors. Afterward, if you have a few extra minutes, wipe down the kitchen table and counters. But don’t worry—wiping down a surface in front of your guests isn’t a big deal, so it’s okay if you save that task for later.
5. Clean the Guest Bathroom
Choose which bathroom your guests will use, especially if you have more than one. Give the toilet a quick scrub, make sure there’s plenty of toilet paper, and set out a clean hand towel. In just a few minutes, your guest bathroom will be good to go!
In a pinch, speed cleaning is all about quick, focused actions that make the biggest impact in the shortest time. By lighting candles, clearing clutter, and tidying up the kitchen and guest bathroom, you can create a welcoming space for visitors, even when time is limited. With these simple hacks, you’ll be ready to impress your guests without the stress.
