Top 20 Cleaning Hacks That Save Time and Money

Cleaning doesn't have to be a dreaded chore, but we all know how time-consuming it can be. Whether you're a landlord or a tenant, keeping your property clean is important. Not only does it keep your space looking good, but it also helps you avoid bigger problems down the line. Let's admit it, sometimes you just want something quick and easy when tackling those spots and stains. That’s why we’ve rounded up a list of cleaning hacks to make your life a whole lot easier.

These hacks are perfect for landlords juggling multiple properties and tenants wanting clean, livable homes without overspending. These tricks are effective, budget-friendly, and make use of things you already have at home. Whether it’s baking soda or vinegar, these household staples can be powerful tools when used the right way. Here's how you can clean smarter, not harder.

Cleaning Hacks for Landlords

1. Use Dryer Sheets for Baseboards

Dryer sheets aren’t just for laundry. They can wipe dust and grime off your baseboards and leave behind a dust-repelling residue. You’ll spend less time cleaning them in the future, and your rooms will instantly feel fresher.

2. Newspaper for Window Cleaning

Skip the paper towels and try newspaper for sparkling windows. Spray a mix of vinegar and warm water on the glass and wipe it with crumpled newspaper. It offers a streak-free finish and keeps waste to a minimum.

3. Baking Soda for Carpet Deodorizing

Carpets can hide odors even after a vacuum. Sprinkle baking soda over the carpets, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum it up. It absorbs unpleasant smells and freshens up the space.

4. Vinegar and Baking Soda for Drains

Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by half a cup of vinegar down your drains. Let the mixture fizzle for about 10 minutes, then flush it out with hot water. This helps break down gunk and keeps things flowing smoothly.

5. Ice Cubes and Vinegar for Garbage Disposal

Put a few ice cubes and a splash of vinegar into your garbage disposal. Turn it on and run cold water. The ice helps dislodge stuck debris and sharpens the blades while vinegar fights off odor.

6. Toothpaste for Faucet Stains

Got cloudy spots on your faucets? Dab some regular toothpaste on a cloth and gently rub the area. It breaks down the mineral buildup, making metal fixtures shine again.

7. Lemons for Microwave Cleaning

Slice a lemon, put it in a bowl of water, and microwave it for two to three minutes. The steam loosens grime, and the lemon freshens the air inside. Just wipe the inside with a clean cloth afterward.

8. Olive Oil for Stainless Steel

Keep stainless steel appliances shiny by dabbing a little olive oil on a soft cloth. Wipe in the direction of the grain to remove smudges and add a clean, polished look.

9. Dryer Vent Cleaning with Vacuum Attachment

A clogged dryer vent can be a fire hazard and reduce efficiency. Use a vacuum attachment to suck out built-up lint and dust. It's a simple task that helps improve safety and performance.

10. Use of Magic Erasers on Walls

Magic erasers can make wall scuffs disappear. Slightly dampen one, then gently scrub the marked area. Whether it's crayon, shoe marks, or general blemishes, they usually lift right off.

With these easy tips, landlords can keep their rentals looking great without putting in hours of work. Clean properties help preserve value and make a big difference when showing units to potential tenants.

Cleaning Hacks for Tenants

1. Coffee Filters for Dusting

Coffee filters are soft and lint-free, which makes them perfect for fragile surfaces like TV screens or laptops. They lift dust without scratching or leaving streaks.

2. Rubbing Alcohol for Marker Stains

Spilled marker on the wall or furniture? Soak a cloth in rubbing alcohol and gently rub the stain. It works surprisingly well on permanent markers and other tough inks.

3. Baking Soda and Peroxide for Grout Whitening

Mix baking soda and a few drops of hydrogen peroxide into a paste. Apply it to dirty grout, let sit for a few minutes, scrub with a brush, then rinse. Smiles all around when the grout lines come clean.

4. Toothbrush for Tight Spaces

Hold onto that old toothbrush. It’s perfect for corners, sink edges, and other tricky areas. The bristles reach into crevices other tools can’t.

5. Use of Bread for Broken Glass

After sweeping up broken glass, take a piece of sliced bread and gently press it on the area. The soft texture picks up small shards and slivers that you may have missed.

6. Vinegar for Pet Odors

Pets are wonderful but sometimes leave behind some not-so-wonderful smells. Lightly spray diluted vinegar on fabric or carpet and let it air dry. It helps neutralize lingering odors without using harsh chemicals.

7. Baby Oil for Chrome Fixtures

Wipe down water-spotted chrome with a cloth and a drop of baby oil. It removes smudges and gives sinks, faucets, and towel racks a new-looking shine.

8. Cornstarch for Stubborn Stains

Cornstarch can absorb oil stains from fabric and upholstery. Sprinkle it on the stain, let it sit, and then vacuum or brush off. For light fabric stains, it’s a quick solution.

9. Rice for Bottle Cleaning

Hard-to-reach bottles can get gross fast. Add a little rice and water, shake hard, and it scrubs the inside as it swirls. Rinse clean and it’s good to go.

10. Salt for Iron Cleaning

Pour salt on wax paper, heat up the iron, then press it over the paper. The abrasive salt wipes off residue and buildup stuck to the bottom of the iron. It's a simple way to bring old irons back to life.

With these cleaning tricks, tenants can keep their homes looking polished without spending too much money or time. When your space is clean, it just feels better to live in and easier to relax in.

Making Cleaning a Breeze in Your Maryland Home

Cleaning your living space doesn't have to eat up all your time or money. Sometimes it just takes a few clever fixes using items you already have on hand to make a big difference. Whether you're a landlord looking out for multiple properties or a tenant making a rental feel like home, these tips can make everyday cleaning easier and more manageable.

We’d love to hear the creative ways you’ve tackled messes around your home. Got a go-to trick you swear by? Share your top cleaning tips—you might just help someone brighten up their day and their space too. Keep your home—whether yours or rented—clean, fresh, and stress-free.

Cleaning doesn’t have to take up all your time or energy. If you're looking for support in maintaining your property while you focus on enjoying a clean living space, consider how Marquise Properties Group, LLC can assist with full-service property management. We make it easy to manage your property efficiently and with less stress.