Most household dirt — 75 to 80 percent — is tracked in from outside. Keep it outside by regularly sweeping driveways, porches, sidewalks, and garage doors. Then, add a doormat to both the inside and the outside of the door.
Clean Door Mats
Vacuum or shake entryway rugs and mats when you clean the rest of the house and wash them once a month.
Remove Shoes
Keep grit and scuff marks at bay by asking family members and guests to remove their shoes when coming into the house. Keep a basket of slippers by the door for guests to borrow.
Umbrella Stand
Place an umbrella stand near the door to keep wet umbrellas from dripping all over the house.
Clean Paw
Use a towel to wipe down pets paws and coats when coming in from muddy weather.
Save Wood Floors
Protect the wood floors under your wooden rockers by placing masking tape or painter's tape on the bottom of each rocker.
Plan to Clean
Understand the three levels of clean. Level One: Tasks that must be done every day or several times a week; Level Two: Tasks that must be done weekly or monthly; and Level Three: Tasks that must be done once or twice a year.
Specific Chores
Make a detailed task list. Don't just say "clean the bedroom" — is today the day to change the sheet? Dust under the bed?
Work in the Light
Try to vacuum when the natural light in the room is at or near its best. You'll do a better job and won't have to come back for touch-ups.
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