The Lazy Girl's Guide to a Clean Home

POPSUGAR Photography | Grace Hitchcock
POPSUGAR Photography | Grace Hitchcock

If you don't enjoy cleaning, tidying up your place may feel like a time-consuming and mind-numbing task. However, there are little tricks you can do to lessen your load and expend less effort but still have a sparkling-clean residence. Here are some ways to have a clean place without cleaning:

Everything has its place: Remember that each item has its place in your home, and if it doesn't, find a spot for it. Organize your things and make sure that every time you take something from its rightful place, you always return it to where it belongs when you're done using it. You'll prevent clutter from building.

Reduce your stuff: If you have fewer possessions, you'll have less clutter to deal with. Check out our recommendations of things you should throw away today. Be mindful when shopping, and don't buy things you don't need, even if you're tempted.

Take off your shoes: Taking off your shoes before going into your home may feel strange, but it actually helps minimize cleaning time. You won't have to vacuum up and mop away all the dirt and grime that you've been stepping on all day. It goes without saying that you should also clean your pets' paws before letting them enter your home.

Have a welcome mat: Get a welcome mat so people can wipe their shoes before entering. Even if they are planning on taking off their shoes before coming in, you'll have less to clean if everyone is wiping off their shoes before placing them in your entryway.

Don't leave your windows open for too long: When airing your room, make sure that you're not leaving your windows open for too long, or dust will start to collect.

Invest in a hand vacuum: This handy piece of equipment will help cut down on cleaning time. Have a few stray hairs lying around or spilled some glitter from your DIY project? Just suck them up with a hand vacuum, and the mess will be clean in a few seconds. The hand vacuum is an investment that will pay for itself over time.

Cover your furniture: You can protect your furniture with covers so that it'll be protected from any spills or dirt on your clothing. For example, find a nice waterproof tablecloth for your table or invest in a slipcover for your couch that will be easy to throw in the wash.

Buy disinfectant wipes: Buy some disinfectant wipes so you can quickly clean up spills or maintain the cleanliness of an area. Using these wipes won't feel like you're cleaning, because it takes minimal effort.

Eat in the rightful place: Don't eat snacks all around the house, or you'll find yourself with crumbs and smears on your bed, sofa, or floor. Eat your meal properly while sitting at a table. Don't try to multitask when you're eating, or you'll end up spilling on your clothes.

Carefully consider pets: Before you jump into a long-term commitment to a furry friend, make sure that you're accounting for all the messes you'll have to clean up. If you're not keen on continually vacuuming up fur, perhaps consider breeds that don't shed much or ones that are hairless. You could also opt for a lower-maintenance pet, such as a fish.

Split up chores: Dislike cleaning? Try to trade or split up chores with your roommate or partner. Perhaps you can do the cooking instead of washing the dishes, or grocery shopping instead of vacuuming. Offer to take up other household duties in exchange for getting off scot-free when it comes to cleaning obligations.

Do you have any other tricks that help lessen your cleaning time? Share them in the comments! Thumbnail Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Maria Del Rio