7 Simple Cleaning Hacks: How to Keep Your Home Tidy Without Stress

Living in a three-story house can be both a blessing and a challenge. Add to that two adorable Pomeranians — Cookie and Mia 🐾 — who shed their fur with every season, and you’ll understand why cleaning can sometimes feel endless. But over time, I’ve learned some simple cleaning hacks that keep my home tidy without leaving me stressed or exhausted. Today, I want to share what really works for me, in case it helps you too.

1. Start Small: One Room at a Time

In the past, I used to try and clean the entire house in one go, which left me drained. Now, I’ve learned to focus on one room at a time. This way, progress feels manageable, and I actually enjoy the process.

👉 For organizing small items, I use these woven storage baskets on Amazon — they’re neutral, stylish, and keep clutter hidden.

📌 I’ve also written about kids’ room organization ideas if you struggle with toys or smaller spaces.

2. The Vacuum That Saved My Sanity

With two dogs, shedding is constant — especially when Cookie and Mia switch from summer to winter coats. For years, I was frustrated, but then I invested in a pet-friendly vacuum cleaner.

👉 This powerful vacuum for pet hair on Amazon glides over hardwood floors and carpets, and it actually picks up all the tiny fur strands. It’s my number one must-have cleaning tool.

3. Daily 10-Minute Tidy-Up

Simple cleaning hacks Instead of waiting until everything is a mess, I do a quick 10-minute tidy-up each evening. I set a timer, pick up items lying around, and wipe down surfaces. It’s surprising how much peace this brings.

👉 I keep these microfiber cloths from Amazon in each room — they’re washable and eco-friendly, making cleaning faster and sustainable.

4. Natural Sprays for Stress-Free Cleaning

I’ve moved away from harsh chemicals. Now I make or buy natural sprays with vinegar, lemon, or essential oils. They’re safe for my family and pets, and the fresh scent makes the house feel instantly clean.

👉 Try this all-purpose natural spray on Amazon if you don’t want to DIY.

📌  Harvard Health has a great article on safe household cleaning products that opened my eyes to why switching was important.

5. Laundry System That Works

Instead of letting laundry pile up, I do one load a day. Small, consistent habits stop the overwhelm. I even keep a laundry basket on each floor, so I don’t have to carry clothes up and down constantly.

👉 These collapsible laundry baskets are a lifesaver in a multi-story home.

6. Cleaning with the Seasons

Every new season, I take a few hours to reset: deep clean windows, switch out bedding, and declutter closets. This keeps the house feeling fresh and prevents mess from building up over time.

📌 Internal link: Read my post on minimalist fall decorating ideas to combine cleaning with a seasonal refresh.

7. Ask for Help When Needed

This was hard for me, but I’ve learned that I don’t have to do it all alone. Sometimes I involve my kids with simple chores or ask my husband to handle vacuuming. It’s teamwork that makes our home shine.

What I’ve Learned About Simple Cleaning Hacks

Keeping a clean house doesn’t mean perfection. It’s about systems that fit your life and give you peace of mind. With Cookie and Mia running around, fur on every surface, and three stories to manage, these small, intentional habits keep me sane.

For even more science-backed simple cleaning hacks, Psychology Today highlights how small habits at home can reduce anxiety and create calm (source).

🌟 Mini FAQ on Simple Cleaning Hacks

1. How do I keep up with cleaning when I’m busy?

Focus on one task or one room at a time. Small actions daily are better than one overwhelming marathon clean.

2. What is the best vacuum for pet hair?

A pet-specific vacuum (like this one on Amazon 👉 see it here) is worth every cent if you have dogs or cats.

3. Are natural sprays really effective?

Yes, especially for everyday cleaning. They’re safer and still powerful when used consistently.

4. How do I stop feeling stressed about cleaning?

Shift your mindset: don’t aim for perfection, just for calmness and consistency.

If you love these simple cleaning hacks, you’ll also enjoy my post on Minimalist Fall Kitchen Ideas where I share how small tweaks keep the space calm and functional.

I’ve noticed that many of the same simple cleaning hacks overlap with my Pantry Organization Made Simple guide — both focus on keeping daily life stress-free.

simple cleaning hacks

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