Everyone keeps talking about this "spring cleaning" I'm supposed to be doing. And you know what? Mama ain't got no time for that. But sometimes occasions arise in which we must make our homes look presentable to guests. Easter and Passover are coming, and while we don't have time to do a thorough top-to-bottom job, maybe we can carve out an hour to dig ourselves out of the worst of it.
So how about this: 8 simple steps for a quick, good-enough spring cleaning. (Those of you with high standards may want to look the other way.) Then share with us your favorite quick-cleaning tricks.
*Images ©iStock.com/YinYang; *©iStock.com/mattjeacock
Clear Up Entryway
First impressions matter most. So get rid of any clutter around your home's entrance and dump it all into your hall closet to deal with later. Insist on hanging up your guests coats in there yourself … er, after they've moved on.
Clear Off All Surfaces
Scan the room and scoop up any objects you see on any chairs or sofas. Scan the room again and scoop up the stuff on the floor. Then clear off anything you see on your counters or tables. Put everything in a basket or grocery bag and schedule a time to find a place for it all, later, after your guests leave. Actually put it on the calendar.
Stack Books & Magazines
If you have a lot of books and magazines with no place to go, arrange them all in a tall stack against the wall. Cool design-y effect that looks deliberate!
Conceal Any Stains
Strategically drape throws over any stains on your sofas or chairs.
Hide Your Dirty Dishes
If your dishwasher and your sink are both full (because HELLO, you've been cooking for your guests) keep the dishes in your sink in a large stockpot until after your guests leave.
Air Out the Rooms
Open all the windows in your home to get cross breezes blowing through everything. If it's warm enough, leave a few open. Fresh smells can trick people into thinking they're in a clean environment.
Spruce Doors, Frames, & Knobs
Grab a Magic Eraser and scan all your doors. Give any obvious hand prints a quick swipe.
Bathroom Bamboozle
Take your stained, hair-covered bath mat and toss it into the bathtub. Take all the toiletries out on counters and the sink and put them in a clean bowl. Put that in the tub as well. Close the shower curtains. Check the toilet just to make sure there's nothing horrific you need to take care of.
More from The Stir: 8 Sneaky Ways to Fake-Clean Your Bathroom
Close Doors to Your Kids' Rooms
The other kids who visit them probably won't tell the grown-ups what a mess they are.
Alter Your Guests' Perception
Still worried your home isn't clean enough? Greet your guests at the door with a glass of wine. Have one yourself. And remember: People who truly love you aren't scrutinizing your home for cleanliness — they're there to enjoy your company.
