Whether you’re planning to show your home or just enjoy clean spaces, here are some great tips from HouseLogic for keeping your home clean and tidy with minimal effort.
Control humidity.
Low humidity causes static electricity, which attracts dust and makes it cling to surfaces. High humidity propagates dust mites, which are a double whammy: they’re a common allergen and they contribute to dust production. The ideal humidity level is 40 to 50 percent. Place inexpensive digital hygrometers around the home to help keep tabs on interior spaces.
Pro tip: About 80 percent of dirt in the home walks in from the outside. Use a bristly doormat to stop dirt before it’s tracked inside.
Seal countertops.
Stone countertops, such as granite and marble, are naturally porous. Most are sealed when they’re installed but sealant wears
off over time, leaving your counters susceptible to stains. Reapply sealant twice a year. To see if you need a fresh coat, pour a little water on the counter. It should bead up and stay that way for three minutes.
Pro tip: If you’re shopping for a stone countertop, slabs with swirls or veins tend to be more porous and thus harder to keep clean.
Apply protectants.
Protective furniture sprays and carpet sealants are inexpensive and go a long way toward repelling stains. Some even keep fabrics from fading and can help resist harmful mold, mildew, and bacteria.
Pro tip: Once a year, have carpets and upholstery deep-cleaned, then apply protectant to keep it that way.
Update lightbulbs.
This one isn’t about cleanliness, but a well-lit room looks and feels better—and can also help you spot a spill or stain before it sets. Swap incandescent bulbs or fluorescents for highefficiency LEDs.
Pro tip: When shopping for bulbs, a “warm” color temperature is typically around 3,000K (kelvin), a "cool" color is typically around 4,000K, and a “daylight” bulb typically ranges from 5,000K to 6,000K.