Most homes need cleaning and refreshing before guests arrive. The amount of cleaning you can do depends on the time available. If you have only a day or a few hours, you can still make your home look clean with this ultimate checklist. Here are some tips to use your limited cleaning time effectively.
Zero in on the rooms guests are sure to use, such as entryways, living areas, bathrooms, and bedrooms for overnight guests. Don’t clean areas they won’t see, like the laundry room.
Engage the entire family. Even young children can help. Assign tasks that can be done simultaneously. For example, one person can vacuum while another declutters.
Work quickly and make the most impact with the least amount of work. Remove clutter instead of cleaning the oven. If you don’t have time to sort and put away all the clutter, gather it in a laundry basket and hide it in a closet!
Cleaning doesn’t have to be done all in one day. Setting out a multi-day cleaning schedule is a great way to tackle the whole house without feeling overwhelmed.
12 Smart Cleaning Tips for Getting Your Cleanest Home Ever in 2025
