Forming Impressions
Details matter when it comes to creating a positive impression of your home. Subtle smells and overlooked corners can quickly indicate if a space is well-maintained. A Talker Research survey from 2024, commissioned by BISSELL, highlights how challenging household cleaning can be for many. Of 2,000 Americans surveyed, 24% find keeping their homes tidy more difficult than their full-time jobs. With cleaning times ranging from one to four hours a week for most, only 5% dedicate nine hours or more.
Important Areas to Focus On
To maximize the impact of your cleaning time, Heidi Phillips, owner of Tergo specialist cleaning services, shares key signs of neglect and how to address them effectively.
Unpleasant Odors
“The first thing anyone will notice about your home is what it smells like when you open the front door to greet them,” Phillips shared.
Unwanted odors can stem from pets, cooking remnants, garbage, or soft furnishings. Daily airing out by opening windows for 20-30 minutes can help circulate fresh air. Regularly dispose of trash, clean bins, and maintain appliances to prevent odors from building up.
Cluttered Entrance
First impressions are set in the entryway. Maintain a clean and uncluttered space by storing shoes and hanging coats. Limit items in this area to avoid clutter.
Dirty Floors
“A regular vacuum throughout your home does more than you think,” Phillips said.
Vacuuming removes dirt and allergens. Clean high-traffic areas daily and less-used spaces weekly. Pay attention to corners and edges.
Visible Clutter
“Nothing shouts ‘unmaintained’ more than piles of clutter,” Phillips warned.
Clutter from unopened mail to wrappers makes a home feel chaotic. Establish routines for putting things away and avoid keeping items unnecessarily.
Dirty Dishes
Left-out dishes signal neglect. Wash up after meals to maintain kitchen hygiene, prevent smells, and avoid pest attraction.
Dusty Surfaces
Dust consists of skin cells, fibers, and outdoor dirt. Polish surfaces weekly and reduce dust by removing shoes at the door.
Dirty Draining Board
Residue on draining boards promotes bacteria and smells. Clean this area daily and ensure it stays dry.
Untidy Bathroom
Keep bathrooms fresh by wiping surfaces, cleaning the toilet daily, and keeping towels dry. Organize toiletries neatly to improve visual appeal.
Smelly Drains
Sinks and drains can emit unpleasant smells. Regularly clear hair and debris, and flush drains with hot water.
Unclean Furnishings
“You don’t need to have matching curtains and candles… but you do need to make sure you are washing cushion covers and throws regularly,” Phillips advised.
Regularly clean and arrange soft furnishings to maintain freshness throughout the home.
The Bottom Line
A well-maintained home focuses on details guests notice, prioritizing cleanliness and organization in key areas. This approach offers a welcoming atmosphere without requiring extensive deep cleaning.