Clean faster, live better

For most of us, cleaning is a chore, but a necessary one to ensure our homes are comfortable and safe. With an active and busy family, time is precious, so I’m a big proponent of finding smarter ways to do things.

Here are five tips for a more efficient cleaning routine, so you can enjoy more of the things you love to do.

• Clean from top to bottom. Doing it any other way will simply spread dust, dirt and debris from dirty surfaces to the areas you’ve already cleaned. Not having to rewipe or vacuum twice saves time.

• Remove clutter before you start. Clutter is a distraction and can really slow you down. Tidying before cleaning makes things easier and quicker, rather than trying to clean around the mess.

• Stick to a plan. Treat your chores like you would your work. Tackle the biggest, most challenging rooms first while you have the most energy.

The key to a clean house is consistency; create a schedule to complete certain tasks during the week, so there’s less to do all at once.

• Use technology to your advantage. As a contractor author and TV host, I know having the right tool for the right job provides a serious advantage. When it comes to technology, I love anything that’s a game-changer, like Hoover’s new vacuum with “instincts.”

• Divide and conquer. Recruit the family. More hands make for lighter and faster work. There are tasks for every age and ability. The reward is spending quality time together when it's all done.