Basic Standards - Kitchen

• While each person has a different idea of what constitutes clean, there are basic standards that apply for most of us. In the kitchen, wipe down the countertops, clean the exterior surfaces of the refrigerator, stove and microwave, make sure the stove top is clean and the sink is wiped out, sweep and mop floors and wipe down the exterior of cabinets and the area behind the stove.
  
  

Basic Standards - Bathroom

• Possibly one of the most unpleasant jobs in house cleaning is also one of the most important -- keeping the toilet bowl and area around it clean. A toilet bowl cleaner or disinfectant and scrub brush will do the job nicely. Use glass cleaner to make the mirrors and faucets shiny, clean the bathtub with a light scouring powder or gel, remove any mold, mildew or scum, empty the trash and mop the floor.
  
  

Basic Standards - Bedroom

• In the bedroom, dust well, vacuum or mop the floor, wash bedding, clean the windows, and make sure everything looks organized.
  
  

Basic Standards - Living Area

• A good dusting and vacuuming is needed in areas that the entire family uses. Look for and remove cobwebs, wipe down ceiling fans, clean lamps and put away items that don't belong in that room.
  
  

Tip - Identify Trouble Spots

• House cleaning can feel like a real chore, particularly if you're concerned about how you're going to deal with trouble spots. Those spots may include a stain on the carpet or mildew in the shower that needs addressing. Do a little research prior to cleaning to determine the best way to attack those problems. Check the Internet for cleaning ideas, or if you know the manufacturer of a particular item that needs cleaning, contact them for their professional tips.
  
  

Tip - Organize Your Supplies

• You'll save time by having all your cleaning supplies in one place. A bucket or tote is a good way to keep everything you'll need together. At the minimum, make sure that the bucket includes glass cleaner, paper towels, cleaning rags, a pair of rubber gloves, scrub brush, disinfectant, toilet bowl cleaner and a light scouring powder or gel.
  
  

Tip - Tackle The Big Jobs First

• For many people, it's a relief to take care of the areas of concern first, freeing them up to concentrate on the rest of the house. For instance, if you know that there is mildew in the shower and are concerned about getting it out, take care of that task before you begin cleaning the rest of the house. Likewise, if there are jobs that you especially dislike -- such as cleaning toilets -- get them out of the way before you begin tasks that you don't mind as much.
  
  

Tip - De-Clutter

• As much as we all value the stuff we own, take a good hard look at what you have and what you truly need. An uncluttered home is much easier to clean and will look clean for longer.
  
  

Tip - Enlist Aid

• Unless you live alone, everyone who lives in your home should pitch in. Assign tasks based on age and what each person can reasonably accomplish. Knowing that you don't have to do it all yourself can be a huge relief.