Given the amount of time we spend in them with the kids, the pets, and everyone else, it’s no surprise that living rooms attract a lot of nasty germs over time.
Cleaning the living room can sound terribly daunting, but when you break it down into a few small steps, you’ll be amazed at not only how efficient you are but how enjoyable it is!
These steps below will leave your living room looking and feeling brand new!
Declutter
- Remove any displays, art, or collections that no longer hold appeal.
- Donate books you no longer need or want.
- Sort out and donate remote controls, DVDs, electronics, or board games you don’t use.
- If the room feels crowded, consider removing a piece of furniture, especially one that doesn’t get used much.
Organize
- Tame cords
- Buy a tool specifically designed for organizing and camouflaging cords or make a DIY one by wrapping a coiled phone cord around cords to keep them together.
- To make it easy to disconnect and reconnect electronics, label each plug with the electronic device it’s connected to (plastic bread tags work great).
- If your coffee table doesn’t provide storage, slide some wicker bins under it or on a nearby shelf to hold remotes, magazines, and other items.
- If the living room often looks more like a play room, add a rolling bin to contain toys and encourage your kids to clean up.
Deep Clean
Wood floors
Mix one part water, one part vinegar, one part isopropyl alcohol, and a few drops of dish soap in a bucket. Use the solution to mop sealed wood floors.
Carpet
Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and vacuum thoroughly. Then steam clean them with equal parts vinegar and water.
Carpet stains
Spray with a solution of two parts water and one part vinegar. Cover with a dish towel, then iron the towel. Repeat as necessary. Keep in mind that you should have your carpets professionally cleaned every 12-18 months.
Upholstery
Sprinkle on baking soda and vacuum thoroughly. Then mix 1/4 cup of dish soap with 1 cup of warm water and brush it in gently without getting the fabric too wet. Dab it with a towel to remove excess moisture, then let the furniture air dry
Upholstery stains
Scrub with hydrogen peroxide.
Wood surfaces
Combine 1 cup water, 1/4 cup vinegar, and 2 teaspoons olive oil in a spray bottle. Shake, spray on surface, then buff using a soft cloth.