5 Ways To Keep Your Home Cleaner For Longer

Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people feel that way, especially those of us that have children and/or pets. But, there is hope! Here are a few things that can help cut down on the dirt in your house:

1. SHOES OFF! 

We all have that friend that has no problem reminding you that you need to take your shoes off at the door. You might find it slightly annoying but, your friend knows that is how you keep unwanted dirt out. Requiring everyone to take their shoes off at the door will reduce the amount of dirt being tracked in (along with potentially harmful things like fertilizers, pesticides and other chemicals). Go ahead, be that “no shoe” person! Keep indoor slippers by your front door, along with a few extra pairs for guests, to help with the transition.

2. KEEP FOOD IN ITS PLACE.

This can be particularly difficult if you have kids… But not allowing food to be eaten outside of the kitchen/eating area will seriously reduce the mess in your home. Think about it. After snack time, would you rather sweep up crumbs from under the dining table or have to vacuum the trail of crumbs that leads from the kitchen, through the hall, into the family room and inside of the sofa? Seems like a no-brainer to me!

3. BRUSH THE DOG.

Do you have “tumble weeds” of dog fur floating around your house? Are you afraid to rearrange furniture because you know there is going to be a TON of fur underneath? Do you ever wonder if you could start a sweater business using all the fur your dog leaves around the house? Well it’s time to do something about it! Shedding is perfectly normal, but by brushing your dog regularly you can prevent the fur from taking over your house. According to the Animal Humane Society, dogs should be brushed every couple of days no matter the length of their coat. There are many different brushes on the market, along with “fur gloves”, like this, which have great reviews. Contact your veterinarian if you are unsure of the best type of brush for your dog or if you are worried that your dog may be shedding too much.

4. SWAP YOUR AIR FILTER.

I bet you don’t remember the last time you changed your air filter. It’s out of sight and out of mind. But that dirty air filter is not only harming your air quality, it’s also making your house dusty. Do you know how often you’re supposed to change out your air filter? I bet you’ll be surprised. Serviceexperts.com says you should be changing it out every 30 to 60 days! Even more often if you have more than 1 pet and/or suffer from allergies. The good news is you can buy them in bulk online for a great price and they are very easy to swap.

5. CLEAR YOUR CLUTTER.

People often complain about their clutter only “collecting dust”. Well, put an end to it! Cut down on the amount of things you have hanging out on your counters, furniture and floors. Not only will they be easier to clean, but dirt won’t have anywhere to hide. Need some inspiration? Take a look at Marie Kondo’s “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up”. I promise you’ll learn something new and find the motivation you need to get started!