When there’s only half an hour left before the doorbell rings, and your apartment resembles a battlefield, panic is your worst enemy. Instead of grabbing everything at once, you need to turn on the mode strategic camouflage. Guests won’t look under sofas or check the order in dresser drawers if you place accents correctly. There is a proven algorithm of actions that allows you to create the illusion of perfect purity in record time.
Guest route rule
The first and most important rule is to clean only where the guest’s foot will step. Usually this is the hallway, living room and bathroom. Close the doors to the bedroom, nursery and office. It’s right away cuts off 50% of the work. Stand in the hallway and look at the apartment through the eyes of the person entering. Everything that catches your eye in the first seconds must be corrected. Put your shoes in the closet, hang your jackets straight, and clear the rack for your guests’ clothes.
Crash cart method
Don’t waste time sorting things into their places. Take a large laundry basket, box or heavy bag. Walk along the “guest route” and throw everything unnecessary there: children’s toys, receipts, mugs, clothes, exercises and cosmetics. Hide this basket in a closet or in a room where guests will not enter. You will sort out its contents tomorrow, when you have time and a calm environment. Now your goal is clear horizons and empty surfaces.
The magic of mirrors and plumbing
The bathroom is an indicator of the cleanliness of the entire house. Even if the rest of the room is a little chaotic, a sparkling bathroom will create a sense of order. You don’t have to wash the entire tile. Do just three steps:
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Pour the product into the toilet and flush after 5 minutes.
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Wipe dry mirror and faucet — the shine of chrome and glass instantly changes the perception.
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Hang fresh towel for hands
Working with dust and light
It takes a long time to vacuum the entire apartment, and even more so to wash the floors. If you have a robot vacuum cleaner, run it in the hallway. If not, just pick up large debris with a broom. The main life hack lies in the lighting. Bright overhead light mercilessly highlights dust and stains. Turn on floor lamps, sconces or table lamps. Soft, diffused light will hide cleaning imperfections and add coziness.
The final touch: the smell of freshness
Nothing spoils the impression more than musty air. Be sure to open the windows for 5-10 minutes for cross ventilation. If you don’t have time to brew coffee or bake buns, use aroma diffuser with light scent citrus or vanilla. Cleanliness is perceived by us not only visually, but also through smell. Fresh air makes the brain think that the room is clean.
Now exhale and straighten yourself out. A calm and smiling owner is the best decoration of the house. Guests come for communication and atmosphere, and minor flaws in the interior will go unnoticed against the backdrop of your hospitality and good mood.
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