Keeping your home clean and your laundry day stress-free doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right cleaning strategies, you can save time, protect your clothes, and keep your home looking its best. Here are four cleaning and laundry hacks that actually work—perfect for busy households looking for smart, effective solutions.
1. Sort laundry by fabric type, not just color
When it comes to laundry tips, most people sort clothes by color, but sorting by fabric type is just as important. Washing heavier items like towels separately from delicate fabrics prevents damage, reduces wear and tear, and ensures a more even dry. It’s a simple laundry hack that helps clothes last longer and look better.
2. Always dust before vacuuming
This cleaning tip is all about working smarter, not harder. Dusting first allows fallen dust and particles to be picked up when you vacuum, saving you from re-cleaning. Start with shelves, counters, and high surfaces, then move to the floors for a more efficient home cleaning routine.
3. Use mesh laundry bags for small items
Want to avoid losing socks and tangling delicates? Place small items in mesh laundry bags before throwing them in the wash. This keeps your laundry organized, protects delicate fabrics, and makes post-wash sorting easier—especially helpful for households with kids or lots of laundry.
4. Clean your washing machine compartment and drum
Your washing machine needs a little TLC too! To keep it running smoothly, regularly clean the detergent compartment by removing it and rinsing it with warm water. Use a vinegar solution (equal parts vinegar and water) to soak it for 15-20 minutes, then scrub with a toothbrush to remove any residue. For the drum, add 1/2 cup of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and run a hot wash cycle to help dissolve dirt and odors, leaving your machine fresh and your clothes cleaner.
5. Sanitize kitchen sponges
Sponges can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria. To keep them fresh, microwave a damp (microwave-safe) sponge for one minute. This quick cleaning trick helps kill germs and keeps your kitchen cleaner between deep cleans.