Cleaning is a hassle. But get your priorities straight and follow a few important tips to minimise the amount of time you waste.

Popular Mechanics has rounded up the top 10 tips from cleaning experts. They can help you quickly and efficiently clean dirt from your home, clean your windows, get rid of mould and remove rust, saving you a lot of time and effort.

Tip 1

Being systematic and regular is the basics of cleaning. Quick-cleaning expert Debbie Sardone advises cleaning your home in the same order every time: don't go to another room without cleaning the first one and start and finish cleaning in the same place in the room (the circle principle).

"To reduce time, you have to be consistent - that's the whole tip," noted Sardone.

Tip 2

Cleaning should be done in a pattern: top to bottom, left to right. This makes perfect sense. Sardone advises starting at the top of the room, such as dusting the air conditioner or surfaces, and working your way down to the floor.

Tip 3

Keep the proper tools at the ready. Having all the necessary cleaning tools on hand will save you the time spent going back and forth to the cupboard under the sink. Sardone recommends wearing an apron or even a carpentry tool belt and filling your pockets. You don't need big bottles - pour cleaners into small, reusable sprayers.

Tip 4

Don't forget the windows. Clean them inside and out. There is one very easy and effective way. First you need to dust the windows - a normal paper towel will do the trick. Then fill an empty spray bottle with vinegar and water in a 2:1 ratio. Only white vinegar is suitable - it won't leave any residue. The acids will help break down any stains. Use a cloth and wipe in a horizontal motion from top to bottom. Do not clean the window in a circular motion as this can cause streaks.

Tip 5

Experts recommend using a shower detergent to prevent limescale buildup in the bathroom. Simply spray the detergent onto the surfaces and rinse off with running water.

Tip 6

Dust is caused by many factors. All surfaces accumulate dead bits of epidermis and hair, fibre fragments, dust that comes in through windows when airing, pet hair, paper scraps, etc. The obvious and simple advice is to remember to vacuum regularly. Sardone also suggests using microfibre cloths and ostrich feather brooms.

Tip 7

To wash greasy kitchen surfaces, experts recommend mixing one tablespoon of liquid detergent with warm water. Baking soda and water or a baking soda and vinegar solution can be used to remove stubborn stains or buildup.

Tip 8

The ideal rust remover is a lemon. Cut the lemon in half, squeeze the juice onto the stain and leave for about 10 minutes. Clean the soiled area with a stiff bristled brush. Then rinse off the lemon juice and stain with clean water.

Tip 9

The best remedy for mould is hydrogen peroxide. Spray it on the fungal spores and let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes. You can also use other folk remedies such as baking soda, soap solution and vinegar.

Tip 10

White vinegar is the best way to deal with lime scale. Pour a small amount onto a clean cloth and clean the taps. For other tips on how to get rid of soap marks and limescale in the bathroom, read the article.

Earlier OBOZREVATEL told how to get rid of tough stains on the carpet.

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