How to Keep Your House Looking Great
Published on July 5, 2024 | 5 Minute read
Melanie
Ortiz Reyes
Content Specialist
Maintaining a clean and well-kept home not only enhances its appearance but also creates a comfortable and inviting environment for you and your family. Whether you're an excited new homeowner or looking to refresh your maintenance routine, these tips will help you keep your house looking great year-round!
1. Create a Cleaning Schedule
Starting with the basics. Establishing a regular cleaning schedule helps a lot when trying to keep your home tidy and organized. Break down tasks into daily, weekly, and monthly chores to ensure every area of your home receives attention. Here's a suggested cleaning schedule:
- Daily: Wipe down kitchen counters, clean dishes, and make beds.
- Weekly: Vacuum carpets, mop floors, dust surfaces, and clean bathrooms.
- Monthly: Deep clean appliances, wash windows, and declutter storage areas.
Here are more tips on creating a cleaning schedule.
2. Maintain Flooring and Carpets
Flooring is a prominent feature of your home and requires regular maintenance to stay looking great:
- Vacuum and Sweep: Remove dirt and debris from carpets and hard floors to prevent scratching and wear.
- Steam Clean Carpets: Deep clean carpets annually to remove stains and refresh fibers.
- Polish Hardwood Floors: Use a wood-friendly polish to maintain shine and protect against scratches.
3. Keep Kitchen and Bathrooms Sparkling Clean
Kitchens and bathrooms are known to be high-traffic areas that benefit from frequent cleaning and maintenance:
- Clean Countertops and Appliances: Wipe down countertops daily and clean appliances inside and out.
- Scrub Sinks and Faucets: Remove soap scum and limescale buildup regularly.
- Clean Grout and Tiles: Use a grout cleaner to keep tiles looking fresh and prevent mildew.
4. Organize and Declutter Regularly
Clutter can make even a clean home appear messy. Implement these tips to keep clutter at bay:
- Donate Unused Items: Regularly go through closets and storage areas to donate or discard items you no longer use.
- Invest in Storage Solutions: Use baskets, bins, and shelving units to organize items and keep surfaces clear.
- Create a System: Establish a routine for sorting mail, paperwork, and daily essentials to prevent clutter from accumulating.
For more tips on decluttering, click here.
5. Maintain Exterior Curb Appeal
The exterior of your home is the first impression visitors and passersby will have. Maintain curb appeal with these tips:
- Landscape Regularly: Trim bushes, mow the lawn, and plant seasonal flowers for a well-maintained yard.
- Clean Exterior Surfaces: Power wash siding, decks, and walkways to remove dirt and grime.
- Maintain Gutters and Roof: Clear gutters of debris and inspect the roof for damage or missing shingles.
Here are tips for enhancing curb appeal.
6. Inspect and Maintain HVAC Systems
Proper maintenance of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems ensures efficient operation and improves indoor air quality:
- Change Filters Regularly: Replace HVAC filters every 1-3 months to keep air clean and systems running smoothly.
- Schedule Annual Inspections: Hire a professional to inspect and service HVAC systems annually to identify and address potential issues.
7. Protect and Clean Furniture and Upholstery
Furniture and upholstery contribute to the overall look and comfort of your home:
- Vacuum Upholstery: Use a handheld vacuum or upholstery attachment to remove dust and debris.
- Rotate Cushions: Rotate and fluff cushions regularly to maintain their shape and appearance.
- Use Furniture Protectors: Place coasters under drinks and use furniture protectors to prevent scratches and stains.
8. Maintain Plumbing Fixtures
Keep plumbing fixtures in good condition to prevent leaks and maintain functionality:
- Check for Leaks: Inspect faucets, toilets, and under sinks for leaks and repair promptly.
- Clean Drains: Use drain cleaners or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to keep drains clear of debris.
9. Address Maintenance Issues Promptly
Promptly addressing maintenance issues prevents small problems from becoming costly repairs:
- Inspect for Water Damage: Regularly check for signs of water damage, such as water stains or musty odors.
- Fix Cracked Caulking: Replace cracked caulking around windows, doors, and bathtubs to prevent drafts and water leaks.
10. Schedule Seasonal Maintenance Tasks
Maintain your home's systems and exterior throughout the year with seasonal maintenance tasks:
- Spring: Clean windows, service air conditioning units, and prepare gardens for planting.
- Summer: Inspect and clean outdoor furniture, maintain lawn and landscaping.
- Fall: Clean gutters, inspect heating systems, and prepare for winter weather.
- Winter: Check insulation, test smoke detectors, and keep walkways clear of snow and ice.
By following these tips and incorporating them into your regular home maintenance routine, you can ensure that your house not only looks great but also remains comfortable and functional for years to come. Remember that consistency is key to maintaining a clean and inviting home environment, so stay organized, prioritize tasks, and enlist the help of family members to share the workload. With these strategies, you'll be well-equipped to keep your house looking great throughout every season.