The quick clean when you’re in a hurry
Just found out a friend is going to call in? Drop everything. Here’s how to create a tidy home in 15 minutes flat.
Clear the air
A pleasant (or otherwise) scent is something your guests will notice straight away. In this order - open the windows and doors, take out the rubbish and light a scented candle or spray some home perfume. Finally, vacuum the area
where you will be entertaining.
Clear clutter
Take a washing basket and go through the room they will spend the most time in, clearing the surfaces of clutter.
Stow the basket somewhere out of sight somewhere like a wardrobe.
If you end up with more time at the end of the cleaning process, get another basket and go back through other areas of the house.
If you have kids, assign them the duty of removing anything of theirs back into their room.
Take stock
In the bathroom, first make sure all supplies are on hand: that’s toilet paper, hand soap and a clean hand towel. Next, put all toiletries away in the cupboard. Use wet wipes or an all-purpose cleaner to quickly clean your sink, take any dust off the mirror gently with a piece of paper towel, and throw a swirl of cleaning solution into the toilet. Remember to come back and flush it before they arrive.
Kitchen chaos
If your kitchen is a mess of dishes, quickly put everything in the dishwasher. Otherwise, run a sink of hot water and put them all in. You’ll gain points for trying and the smell of detergent adds to the aroma of general cleanliness.
Remember to empty the kitchen rubbish bin. Next, give the counter a quick wipe with some allpurpose cleaner and a paper towel. Stash any clutter in the pantry.
Look in the mirror
Realistically, your guests will spend much longer looking at you than they will at your house. Brush your hair, brush your teeth, put on some perfume or deodorant and change your clothes. If you have more time, a quick face wipe with a wash cloth can work wonders on how you look and feel.
First impressions
Finally, is there junk on your doorstep? Move it to the garage or out the back. Then if you have time, vacuum the entry way or shake out your doormat. Last, leave the front door open. Your guests are probably due any minute.