Cleaning a home is an uninteresting, time-consuming chore for many. However, a tidy home is essential for a clean, hygienic existence and to prevent allergies and infections. On the bright side, several modern cleaning tools and agents have come up in the market to facilitate hassle-free home cleaning. In addition, one should know certain cleaning techniques to simplify the process further. Here are some cleaning hacks that can make home cleaning a pleasurable experience:

1. Dust well before cleaning
Dust typically accumulates on furniture pieces, showpieces, and other surfaces in a home. Dusting after cleaning or vacuuming causes these particles to remain in the air, causing colds and other infections. Therefore, it is essential to dust these surfaces, preferably with a microfiber cloth, before proceeding to clean them.

2. Use a top-down approach to cleaning
Cleaning the ceiling and objects and surfaces close to it, such as fans, tops of cupboards, top shelves, etc., causes dust particles to fall onto the floor and over objects and surfaces close to the ground. Consequently, if one cleans the floor and objects placed on or around it before cleaning the top surfaces, they must engage in the cleaning process all over again. A more effective way to reduce effort in the process is to utilize a top-down approach, wherein the ceiling and top surfaces are cleaned before the floor and objects close to the ground.

3. Clean the sink at regular intervals
According to a report by the Global Hygiene Council, an inch of a kitchen sink contains approximately 17,000 bacteria. Hence, cleaning the sink should be a routine part of one’s cleaning activities to prevent diseases and bacterial infections. One way to clean the sink is to fill it with warm water and bleach solution and allow it to rest for about five minutes.

4. Clean household objects in a dishwasher
Interestingly, the dishwasher may be used for cleaning not only utensils but also several other household items, such as gardening tools, toothbrush holders, refrigerator shelves, and stove burner liners. Using a dishwasher for cleaning can considerably reduce time and effort in the process.

5. Clean or replace sponges frequently
The cleaning sponge is often a breeding ground for bacteria and germs. Using the same sponge for multiple cleaning sessions can reduce its efficacy progressively. Hence, sponges should be cleaned or replaced after every two or three cleaning cycles. The best way to clean a sponge is to soak it in a bleach solution for five minutes.

6. Use microfiber cloths
Microfiber cloths are highly efficient in absorbing dust and are excellent cleaning companions. One may use microfiber cloths to remove stains, grease, germs, and dust particles from various surfaces in the home, including table tops, kitchen worktops, shelves, etc.

7. Clean stains using shaving cream
Another unexpected yet effective cleaning product is shaving cream, which doubles as an excellent stain-removal agent. One should apply some foam on the stain, leave it for half an hour, and then dab it gently for the best results.

8. Make it a fun-filled family activity
Finally, when viewed as a fun activity and not a chore, cleaning the home can become a fruitful way for the family to bond and interact. Thus, cleaning activities should be equally segregated among home inhabitants.