This is part 4 of the series 7 Days to a Cleaner Home This series details how I get my whole house in company order in the space of 7 days. 

I initially wrote this post in 2012, when I was a stay-at-home mom to a young daughter. Although a lot has changed since then, the fundamental principles of resetting my home remain the same. My home still requires the occasional refresh (who’s doesn’t), and the steps to get it back in order remain largely the same (with some improvements).

Your Living Room (aka Family Room) is Actually Easy to Clean and Keep Clean!

Although living rooms or family rooms in homes with small children (and even teens!) can quickly become messy, they are surprisingly easy to clean and can make the biggest impact on motivating you to clean the rest of your home.

So, let’s get started!

Living Room Prep: Before You Begin Cleaning

Before you start cleaning your living room, take some time to tidy it up. If you’re dealing with daily clutter from play or family living, this should be a breeze. If you’re facing a major clutter situation, don’t worry! Simply remove the obvious clutter, tidy up what’s left, and make a mental note to start a decluttering routine soon.

Remember, we’re focusing on this room for the whole day, so feel free to clean in spurts if that’s what works best for you.

Living Room Cleaning Supplies:

• Garbage bag
• Basket for collecting items that belong elsewhere
• Long-handled duster
• Dusting spray
• Dusting cloths
• One or two microfiber cloths
• Glass cleaner (for any mirrors or windows)
• Preferred furniture polish
• Vacuum

Living Room Cleaning Steps:

1. Start by going around your living room, picking up and tossing any trash into the garbage bag.

2. Put items that don’t belong in the living room (or family room), such as clothing or toys, in the basket to be placed in the correct room or area later.

3. Tidy up by putting books back on bookshelves.

4. Begin dusting from the top of the room, using the long-handled duster to reach ceiling corners, window treatment (curtains, blinds) tops, door jams, and behind doors. Finish by dusting wall seams and baseboards.

5. If you have windows with blinds, use your duster to clean each side (quickly!).

6. Then, clean the windows (hopefully on a cloudy day to avoid streaks!) and wipe the window sill.

7. Move on to the seating area: straighten couch cushions, throw pillows, and blanket throws. Remove couch covers for washing (make a plan to put them back on by evening). If you have pets, use a damp sponge or sticky roller to clean the couches.

8. Dust lamps and lampshades using a damp sponge (or one of these new damp duster sponges), and clean the lamp bases with a damp microfiber cloth.

9. Straighten and dust bookshelves, exposed shelving, and books themselves.

10. Dust hanging pictures and paintings (carefully!).

11. Dust and polish flat surfaces like side tables and coffee tables with furniture polish.

12. Vacuum the carpet, focusing on the middle of the room and exposed areas. If you have uncarpeted flooring, sweep and dry dust it.

13. Finally, open a window to let in fresh air (or light a candle) to complete the room’s refresh!

Last Thoughts…

The living room and/or family room is a relatively easy space to maintain, but neglecting regular dusting and tidying can quickly lead to clutter and disarray. As one of the first rooms your guests see, be sure to keep it clean and organized.

Some simple tips to keep your living room tidy:

– Provide bins for children’s toys

– Recycle newspapers, mail, and magazines daily

– Dust and vacuum regularly (weekly)

– Clean windows, glass surfaces, and mirrors weekly

– Tidy the room each night before bed

By following these simple habits, you’ll make a significant difference in maintaining a welcoming and comfortable living space.

Congratulations! You’re Done!

Turn out the lights, take a deep breath, and pat yourself on the back – you’ve successfully cleaned and organized your living room!

Tomorrow get ready to clean the dining room...