House Cleaning for the Holidays

1. Starting... now!

There's a long list of tasks to tackle between now and the end of the holidays-entertaining guests, buying gifts, making cookies for the office party, and composing greeting cards. How do you make time for all the cleaning that needs to get done? Actually, maintaining a clean holiday home is easier than you think, especially if you approach it the right way. The first step? Begin cleaning before the seasonal rush. This will relieve stress, and give you time to tackle long-term projects, such as polishing the silverware or rearranging furniture.

2. Make a list, check it twice.

Before you begin, make a list of all the things that need to be cleaned. Divide chores by room, estimating the time it will take to complete each task. This will let you know if you can squeeze in time during commercials or if you should set aside the afternoon. You'll feel a sense of accomplishment as you tick off each item, making it more likely that you finish everything.

For a little added help, try following our day-by-day holiday cleaning planner .

3. A little here, a little there.

You don't need large chunks of time to get your house sparkling. In fact, you'll find that dedicating only about 30 minutes a day to cleaning will yield pleasant results. Set aside a fixed time (e.g., right before bed, after your morning coffee, etc.) to get things in order. You can also clean as you go. For example, squeegee the shower door after you've turned off the faucet, and rub down your tub with Mr. Clean Magic Eraser™ to quickly wipe away bathroom scum.

4. Yes, you can take shortcuts.

There's nothing wrong with being ambitious, but let's face it-there isn't always enough time. If you find yourself needing a quick cleaning fix, take a couple of shortcuts to tide you over until you can give rooms a deeper scrub. Giving your house a fresh scent will lend an immediate impression of cleanliness. Try our Febreze 7-day Challenge to freshen your entire home.

5. Enlist help.

You're not the only one enjoying the holidays, so you shouldn't be the only one cleaning for them either. Set aside a specific time each week for cleaning and divide up chores so your children and spouse can pitch in. Have kids make their own beds, sort toys, dust, or wipe off countertops. Not only will this give you some relief, it will teach them good habits as well.

6. Simplify.

Sometimes it seems easier to clean around unwanted items than to discard them, but this isn't a very effective method in the long run. Reduce clutter with a little organization. Get rid of any clothes that don't fit or that you haven't worn in more than two years. Dispose of any singles (i.e., one sock, one earring, etc.) that used to be part of pairs. Designate a basket or bin for all mail, newspapers, and car keys. Consider purchasing shelf organizers, shoe racks, plastic bins, or hanging bags to help organize clutter.

7. Have fun.

Cleaning doesn't have to be all work. Think of it as time to catch up on some reading: Rent books on tape from the library to pass the time. Or put on some of your favorite tunes and get those feet moving! You can also give yourself an incentive to work a little harder or a little longer by promising yourself a long bath, or sharing a favorite sweet treat with the kids.