Keeping a rented home clean can be challenging, especially when you’re on a tight budget. As a renter, you want to ensure that your living space is clean and organized without breaking the bank. Fortunately, there are many tips and tricks you can use to keep your home looking its best, even on a limited budget. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best cleaning tips for renters on a budget. From using natural cleaners to decluttering regularly, these tips will help you maintain a clean and inviting living environment without spending a fortune. So, if you’re looking for practical and budget-friendly cleaning solutions, read on!
Practical Cleaning Tips
Make Your Own Cleaning Solutions
Making your own cleaning solutions is a great way to save money and reduce your exposure to harsh chemicals that can be harmful to your health and the environment. Many cleaning solutions can be easily made at home using common household items that you probably already have in your pantry or cleaning supplies.
One of the simplest cleaning solutions to make at home is an all-purpose cleaner. You can make an all-purpose cleaner by mixing an equal amount of water and vinegar in a spray bottle. This solution can be utilized to clean a variety of surfaces, including floors, countertops, and windows. For a pleasant scent, you can add a few drops of essential oils to the mixture.
Another cleaning solution you can make at home is a disinfectant spray. To make a disinfectant spray, mix one part rubbing alcohol with one part water in a spray bottle. This solution can be used to disinfect surfaces in your kitchen and bathroom, including countertops, sinks, and toilets. You can also add a few drops of essential oils to the mixture to give your home a fresh scent.
If you’re looking for a natural and non-toxic way to clean your carpets, you can make a carpet cleaner using baking soda and essential oils. To make a carpet cleaner, sprinkle baking soda over your carpets and let them sit for a few minutes. Then, vacuum up the baking soda and add a few drops of your favorite essential oils to your vacuum bag or filter to freshen up the air.
You can also make your own laundry detergent using washing soda, borax, and grated soap. To make laundry detergent, mix one cup of washing soda, one cup of borax, and one grated bar of soap. Use one tablespoon of this mixture per a load of laundry.
Clean As You Go
“Clean as you go” is a popular cleaning method that involves cleaning up messes and spills as soon as they occur instead of waiting until later to clean them up. This method can help keep your rented home clean and tidy without having to spend long periods of time cleaning each day.
One of the benefits of cleaning as you go is that it prevents dirt and stains from setting into surfaces, which can make them harder to clean later on. For example, if you spill something on your kitchen counter, cleaning it up immediately will prevent it from staining the counter or attracting bacteria.
To implement the “clean as you go” method, you should keep cleaning supplies readily available throughout your home. This can include a spray bottle of all-purpose cleaner, a roll of paper towels, and a small broom and dustpan. When you see a mess or spill, simply grab your cleaning supplies and quickly clean them up.
In the kitchen, “clean as you go” can also mean washing dishes as you use them, wiping down counters after each use, and sweeping the floor regularly to prevent food crumbs and debris from building up.
In the bathroom, “clean as you go” can mean wiping down sinks and countertops after each use, cleaning the shower and toilet once a week, and using a squeegee to prevent water spots from forming on the shower door or walls.
Use Microfiber Cloths
Microfiber cloths are a popular cleaning tool for renters on a budget, as they are inexpensive, reusable, and highly effective at picking up dirt and dust. Microfiber cloths are made of tiny fibers that are woven tightly together, creating a cloth with a large surface area that can trap dirt and dust particles.
One of the benefits of using microfiber cloths is that they are highly absorbent, meaning they can hold up to seven times their weight in water. This makes them ideal for cleaning up spills or wiping down surfaces, as they can absorb liquids quickly and easily.
Another benefit of using microfiber cloths is that they are gentle on surfaces, making them ideal for cleaning delicate items such as glassware or electronics. Microfiber cloths are also hypoallergenic, which makes them ideal for people with allergies or sensitive skin.
When using microfiber cloths, it’s important to use them properly to get the most out of their cleaning power. To use microfiber cloths effectively, dampen them with water or a cleaning solution, and then wipe down surfaces in a circular motion. Once the cloth becomes dirty, rinse it out and continue cleaning. Microfiber cloths can be washed and reused multiple times, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective cleaning solution.
Microfiber cloths are also versatile and can be used for a variety of cleaning tasks. They can be used to dust surfaces, clean windows and mirrors, wipe down counters, and even clean floors. When used with a cleaning solution, microfiber cloths can effectively remove bacteria and other harmful germs from surfaces, making them a great choice for keeping your rented home clean and hygienic.
Use Baking Soda for Tough Stains
Baking soda is a highly effective and inexpensive cleaning solution that can be used to remove tough stains from a variety of surfaces in your rented home. Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a white powder that has mild abrasive properties and is non-toxic, making it a safe cleaning alternative.
One of the main benefits of using baking soda for tough stains is that it is highly effective at removing odors. Baking soda can be sprinkled on carpets, upholstery, and other fabric surfaces to absorb odors and leave them smelling fresh and clean.
Baking soda can also be used as a mild abrasive to remove stains from surfaces such as kitchen counters, sinks, and bathtub or shower tiles. To use baking soda as a cleaner, mix it with water to create a paste and apply it to the stain. Let the paste sit for a few minutes, and then scrub the stain with a sponge or brush. Rinse the surface with water, then dry it with a clean soft cloth.
Baking soda can also be used to remove stains from clothing. To remove tough stains from the fabric, mix baking soda with water to create a paste, and then apply the paste directly to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then wash the clothing in the washing machine as usual.
In addition to its cleaning properties, baking soda can also be used to deodorize your rented home. Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, rugs, and upholstery to absorb odors, and then vacuum it up after a few hours. You can also place an open box of baking soda in your refrigerator to absorb food odors.
Declutter Regularly
Decluttering regularly is an essential part of keeping your rented home clean and organized, especially when you’re on a budget. Decluttering involves removing unnecessary items and organizing the remaining ones in a systematic manner. Here are some reasons why decluttering regularly is crucial for renters on a budget.
It creates more space
The more clutter you have in your home, the less space you have to move around. Decluttering regularly creates more space, making it easier to clean and organize your home.
It reduces stress
Clutter can cause stress and anxiety, making it difficult to relax and enjoy your living space. By decluttering regularly, you can create a more peaceful and calm living environment.
It saves time
When you declutter regularly, you spend less time cleaning and organizing. This can save you time and energy, which can be especially important for renters who lead busy lives.
It saves money
Clutter can make it difficult to find things, which can lead to unnecessary purchases. Decluttering regularly can help you keep track of what you have, reducing the likelihood of buying duplicates or unnecessary items.
It improves safety
Clutter can create safety hazards, especially if it obstructs walkways or creates fire hazards. By decluttering regularly, you can improve the safety of your rented home.
To declutter regularly, start by setting aside a few hours each week to tackle different areas of your home. Start with the most cluttered areas, such as closets, drawers, and cabinets. Categorize items into three piles: (1) keep, (2) donate, and (3) throw away. Be ruthless in your decluttering, and only keep items that are necessary or bring you joy.
Once you’ve decluttered your home, focus on organizing the remaining items in a systematic manner. Use storage solutions such as bins, baskets, and shelves to keep items organized and easily accessible. Label containers to make it easier to find what you’re looking for.
Use a Lint Roller for Pet Hair
If you’re a renter with pets, you know that dealing with pet hair can be a daily challenge. Pet hair can stick to furniture, clothing, and carpets, making it difficult to remove. One easy and budget-friendly solution for removing pet hair is to use a lint roller. Here are some tips on using a lint roller to remove pet hair from your rented home.
Choose a high-quality lint roller
Not all lint rollers are created equal. Look for a lint roller with a strong adhesive that can pick up pet hair easily. Avoid low-quality lint rollers that may fall apart or lose their adhesive quickly.
Use the lint roller on furniture
Pet hair can accumulate on furniture such as couches, chairs, and curtains. Use the lint roller to remove pet hair from these surfaces by rolling the adhesive side over the fabric. Make sure to use gentle pressure and roll in one direction to avoid pushing the hair further into the fabric.
Use the lint roller on clothing
Pet hair can also stick to clothing, making it difficult to look presentable. Use the lint roller to remove pet hair from clothing by rolling the adhesive side over the fabric. For best results, start at the top of the garment and work your way down, and use a sweeping motion to pick up as much hair as possible.
Use the lint roller on carpets and rugs
Pet hair can accumulate on carpets and rugs, making them look dirty and unkempt. Use the lint roller to remove pet hair from these surfaces by rolling the adhesive side over the carpet or rug. Make sure to apply gentle pressure and use a sweeping motion to pick up as much hair as possible.
Clean the lint roller regularly
After using the lint roller, remove the used adhesive sheet and dispose of it. Clean the lint roller regularly to keep it in good condition and ensure it remains effective in picking up pet hair.
Keep Your Rented Home Looking Best
Maintaining a clean and organized home doesn’t have to be expensive. By using the tips and tricks we’ve shared in this article, you can keep your rented home looking its best without breaking the bank. From using natural cleaners and making your own cleaning solutions to decluttering regularly and cleaning as you go, these budget-friendly cleaning tips are sure to make a difference in your living space.
Remember, a clean home not only looks great, but it can also improve your mental and physical well-being. So, don’t underestimate the power of a tidy living space. By incorporating these tips into your cleaning routine, you can create a comfortable and inviting environment that you’ll be proud to call home.
We motivate you to try out these cleaning tips and witness how they work for you. And if you have any other budget-friendly cleaning tips to share, we’d love to hear them! Together, we can make the most of our rented homes and create a space that we love coming back to every day.
