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The Ultimate Cleaning Guide for Your Living Room

Updated on January 30, 2023 by Joseph D. Nielson

Table of Contents

Scandinavian living room with pink sofa on empty white wall background

So you want to deep clean your living room? You’ve come to the right place.

There are lots of reasons why you should deep clean your living room. For starters, it will make your home feel much cleaner and more welcoming, and frequent cleaning can help to prevent damage to your furniture and floors over time. The most significant benefit is that it helps reduce allergens and keeps your indoor air quality healthy.

This guide will show you how to keep your living room clean and alert you of any potential cleaning hazards or issues that can occur if not done the right way.

Continue reading for our step-by-step guide to cleaning your living room!

1. Preparing Your Supplies 

Gathering all of the necessary supplies is the first step in any successful living room cleaning project. A vacuum cleaner, dusters, cleaning solution, microfiber cloths, and any other cleaning supplies you have on hand will work great.

Having everything you need will make the process lot simpler and faster because you won’t have to waste time shopping for materials or racing to the store at the last minute.

Cleaning Cloths

Cleaning cloths are an essential part of every cleaning project in the living room. They not only assist in the removal of dust and debris, but they also protect your furniture and floors from scratching and discoloration. 

Microfiber cloths are perfect for this task since they pick up and retain dirt better than other types of cloths. They also don’t leave lint or streaks behind, making them ideal for cleaning glass and other surfaces. 

When cleaning using microfiber cloths, it’s important to use a different one for each type of surface. This will help to prevent cross-contamination between your living room’s various parts.

Vacuum cleaner 

A vacuum cleaner is perfect for cleaning dust and pet hair off floors, rugs, furniture, drapes, and other surfaces. 

When choosing a vacuum cleaner, ensure that it is powerful enough to clean all of the surfaces in your living room and that it has customizable suction settings. A decent quality filter will also help keep allergens in the air to a minimal.

Broom and dustpan

Dirt, pet hair, and other debris can be swept away with a broom from hard surfaces such as tile or wood floors. Dustpans are ideal for collecting the dirt swept away by the broom. 

Make sure the dustpan has a long handle so you don’t have to get down on your hands and knees to pick up the debris. Additionally, ensure that it has an edge that fits securely on the floor so that all dirt is gathered rather than just pushed around.

All-purpose cleaning solution

Any good living room cleaning project must include an all-purpose cleaning product. This cleaner is suitable for wiping down surfaces such as windows, tables, and counters. Look for a pH-neutral solution that is safe to use on a range of surfaces. 

Additionally, ensure that it does not contain any harsh chemicals or pollutants that could be damaging to your health. Look for an all-purpose cleaner that comes in a spray bottle so you don’t have to dilute it with water before using it.

2. Dusting the Room 

Dusting is the next step in cleaning the living room. Dust can quickly accumulate, especially if you have a lot of surfaces to clean. Dust is not only unsightly, but it can also aggravate allergies and create discomfort. 

Dusting your living room on a regular basis will allow you to remove dirt, dust mites, and other allergens that can make breathing difficult.

How to dust the room

When dusting your living room, start from the top and work your way down. Begin by removing dust from high surfaces such as ceiling fans, light fixtures, and window frames with a microfiber cloth or duster. 

Then, proceed to other surfaces such as end tables and bookcases, making sure to reach all nooks and crannies. Finally, use a vacuum cleaner with a dust-removing attachment to eliminate any remaining dust from the floor.

Supplies needed for dusting

Microfiber cloths and dusters are excellent for removing dust without leaving lint or stains. A vacuum cleaner with a suitable attachment is also required to remove any remaining dirt and debris from the floor. Invest in some furniture polish to give your furniture a nice shine as an added bonus.

Overall, dusting is an important aspect of your living room’s regular cleaning regimen. You’ll be able to keep your living room looking clean and comfy for years to come.

3. Vacuuming the Floor, Carpets, and Upholstery 

Vacuum cleaners are important for removing dirt and debris from flooring, carpets, and upholstery.

When vacuuming the living room, use a vacuum cleaner that has both bare floor and carpet settings. You should also have an upholstery attachment for deep cleaning couches and chairs. 

When vacuuming carpets, start by slowly moving back-and forth over them, then use the vacuum’s attachments to get into tight spots. For bare flooring, use the vacuum’s brush attachment to pick up dirt and debris in hard-to-reach spots. 

After that, use the upholstery attachment to remove any dust or dirt particles that have settled on the furniture.

4. Wiping Down Surfaces  

The next step in a thorough living room cleaning routine is wiping down all surfaces. This includes tables, shelves, countertops, and other furniture. Wiping these surfaces will help remove any dirt or dust that may have accumulated over time. 

Additionally, it can also help prevent the spread of germs and bacteria which can lead to illness and discomfort.

Begin by washing out the surfaces in your living room with a damp cloth or sponge and some mild dish soap. Clean all of the surfaces gently, getting into any cracks or crevices where dust has gathered over time. 

Use a dry cloth or paper towel to eliminate any excess moisture after wiping them down. Finally, apply furniture polish to hardwood surfaces to make them shine.

Windowsills 

Windowsills are a common source of dirt, dust, and debris in the living room. It’s essential to clean them on a regular basis to maintain your living room appearing clean and allergen-free. To clean windowsills, start by removing any visible dirt or grime using a damp cloth or sponge and some mild dish soap. 

To get into smaller cracks and crevices, you can use use a toothbrush or other small brush. Wipe away any excess moisture with a dry cloth or paper towel after cleaning. You may also want to invest in some window cleaner created specifically for windowsills to keep them looking immaculate.

Furniture 

Furniture is a vital aspect of any living room, and it must be kept clean in order for the area to look its best. There are several cleaning methods available depending on the type of furniture. Vacuuming with an appropriate attachment is the best way to remove dirt, dust, and debris from upholstered furniture. 

For general cleaning, use a moist cloth or sponge and some mild dish soap. To keep wood furniture appearing shiny and clean, use a soft cloth and some furniture polish. When cleaning any form of furniture, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions to avoid damaging it.

Light Fixtures and Outlets  

When cleaning the living room, don’t forget to clean the light fixtures and outlets. This is due to the fact that dirt and dust can accumulate in these places over time, leading to the growth of germs and bacteria.  

Begin by removing any visible filth, dust, or grime with a damp cloth or sponge and some mild dish soap. To get into the harder-to-reach areas, you might also use a toothbrush or other small brush. Finally, use a dry cloth or paper towel to remove any extra moisture and aid in the prevention of future dirt and dust buildup.

5. Cleaning Floors 

Your living room floors can quickly become dirty, dusty, and allergen-filled. Cleaning them on a regular basis is crucial to maintain the room appearing clean and free of dirt and bacteria. You can keep your living room flooring looking brand new for longer by following the right methods and using the right cleaning products.

Begin by vacuuming or sweeping the floors to eliminate any dirt and debris. After that, wash the floor with a damp mop or mild dish soap. Or you can vacuum and mop at the same time. Either way, make sure you get into all of the cracks and crevices because dirt and dust can accumulate there over time. 

Use a dry cloth or paper towel to wipe any excess moisture after washing. You should also apply a floor wax or sealant to preserve the floors from future filth and particle buildup.

6. Disposing of Trash, Laundry, and Other Waste

To keep the living room appearing neat and tidy, remember to dispose of trash, laundry, and other waste in the room. This also helps to keep germs, bacteria, dirt, dust, and allergens at bay. 

Begin by collecting any objects that must be discarded or recycled, such as old newspapers, magazines, food wrappers, and other materials. Finally, any additional garbage, such as food scraps or pet droppings, should be thrown out in a sealed bin.

7. Maintaining a Clean Living Room 

You can keep your home looking its very best by  periodically cleaning and dusting the living room.

Regular vacuuming

Vacuuming on a regular basis is a crucial element of keeping your living room clean. This can assist eliminate dirt and dust that has accumulated over time and prevent allergies, bacteria, and germs from accumulating.

Furthermore, it’s important to clean the filters on your vacuum on a regular basis to ensure that it is performing to its best ability and not distributing more dirt or dust throughout the room than necessary. 

Remember to keep your vacuum in good operating condition by emptying and cleaning the dustbin when it gets full.

Frequent dusting and wiping down of surfaces

To maintain a living room looking its best, dust and wipe down surfaces on a regular basis in addition to vacuuming. 

Begin by removing any dirt and dust from furniture, drapes, or other fabric surfaces with an appropriate dusting cloth or vacuum with a soft brush attachment. After that, wipe off any hard surfaces with a wet cloth or sponge and some mild dish soap, such as counters, tables, and chairs. 

Pay special attention to the nooks and crevices of furniture, which can quickly accumulate dust.

Quick spot cleaning and stain removal

Accidents and spills or stains in the living room are unavoidable, regardless of how well you clean. To reduce these occurrences and maintain your living room looking its best, undertake quick spot cleaning and stain removal as soon as possible. Begin by dabbing away any extra liquid as quickly as possible with a dry cloth or paper towel. For harder stains, use a cleaning solution designed for the fabric or material of the stained surface.

Test any cleaning solutions in an inconspicuous area first to ensure that they do not discolor or damage the fabric. Also, be wary of any harsh chemicals that may cause additional damage to the material of the furniture or other surfaces. Calling a professional cleaner for harsher stains may also be helpful, as they may have more specialized cleaning solutions and techniques that may be used to effectively remove any tenacious spots.

Keeping clutter to minimum

In addition to regular cleaning, it is essential to keep the living room clutter-free. This can be done by organizing items such as books, magazines, and toys onto shelves or containers that can be conveniently accessed and stored when not in use. Also, try to keep the number of throw pillows, blankets, and other decorative items in the room to a minimum.

This can assist to maintain a living room looking nice and orderly, as well as make it easier to vacuum and dust surfaces. Be sure to periodically dispose of any garbage or food leftovers that may accumulate over time to avoid dirt and debris buildup. With these recommendations, you’ll be well on your way to keeping your living room spotless.

Organizing storage solutions for toys, books, and other items

Finding organizing storage solutions for toys, books, and other objects in the living room is a fantastic way to reduce clutter in your home.

This can help to ensure that these items are easily accessible while remaining hidden while not in use. It’s a win-win solution!

There are several options for achieving this, including purchasing wall-mounted shelves or storage cubes, as well as placing small bins and baskets on shelves or furniture. Consider adopting space-saving furniture, such as ottomans with built-in storage areas for goods such as blankets and toys.

In the long run, creating an organized living room atmosphere will make it easier to keep a clean and neat exterior.

Keeping the room aired out by opening windows periodically

In addition to regular cleaning, it’s important to keep the living room well-ventilated by frequently opening windows. This can assist to reduce dust accumulation and prevent mold and mildew from growing within the property. Furthermore, fresh air circulation can contribute to a more pleasant ambiance in the living area. 

Opening windows at night can assist in removing any unpleasant aromas that may have lingered in the air as a result of cooking or other activities. You can keep your living room clean and comfortable for you and your family by regularly airing it out with fresh air circulation.

Vacuuming up pet hair regularly

Those who have pets should vacuum and pick up pet hair on a regular basis to prevent dirt and debris from collecting into the living room. 

This can be achieved by using a pet-specific vacuum cleaner or brush attachment to vacuum the carpets, furniture, and floors. Lint rollers for furniture and drapes can also help clean up pet hair and other debris. 

Consider purchasing slip covers or furniture protectors to limit the amount of pet hair that collects on surfaces over time. You can keep your living room clean for both you and your pets by vacuuming on a regular basis.

8. Tips for Faster and Better Cleaning Results

When it comes to keeping a clean and neat living room, it’s important to have a few cleaning tips and tricks under your sleeve. By reducing the amount of time spent on deep cleaning, you can save time, energy, and money. 

The following recommendations can ensure that you obtain better results with each cleaning session. From downsizing to using special tools, here are eight methods for cleaning up your living room faster and better.

Moving furniture to clean hidden spots behind and underneath

It’s best to move furniture around when cleaning the living room in order to reach hidden areas behind and beneath furniture. This can help you in ensuring that all areas of the living room are completely cleaned, with no nooks or crannies overlooked. Moving furniture around can also help you clear away dust and debris that has accumulated over time.

Begin by moving the sofa and other large pieces of furniture away from the walls and cleaning underneath them with a vacuum cleaner or duster. Then, move smaller items like lamps and coffee tables so you can get behind them and wash clean surfaces with a damp cloth. Finally, move any rugs in the room so that you can vacuum underneath them.

Making use of microfiber cloths to remove dust instead of just pushing it around 

When cleaning the living room, a microfiber cloth can be more effective than simply moving dust around with a duster. Microfiber cloths are more powerful than traditional materials like cotton or wool at trapping and collecting dust, grime, and debris. Moreover, as compared to other materials, they are significantly less likely to scratch surfaces.

When cleaning surfaces with a microfiber cloth, perform circular motions rather than simply pushing it across to remove dirt and dust. Additionally, keep your microfiber cloths clean and laundered on a regular basis to retain their efficiency in capturing dust particles. When cleaning the living room, use microfiber towels to guarantee that all surfaces are fully cleaned without causing any damage.

Only using cleaning products that are suitable for the type of surface you’re cleaning 

It is vital to choose cleaning chemicals that are appropriate for the type of surface you are cleaning when cleaning the living room. Different surfaces typically requires cleaning chemicals to prevent them from becoming damaged or discolored.

Wood surfaces, for example, should be cleaned with a gentle wood cleaner, while fabric upholstery should be cleaned with a gentle detergent. Furthermore, before using the cleaning product, test it on an inconspicuous section of the surface to guarantee that it will not do any damage.

Cleaning windows with newspaper and vinegar solution for streak-free results 

A mixture of newspaper and vinegar can produce streak-free results for cleaning windows in the living room. This simple technique will save you money on pricey window cleaning supplies and tools.

In a spray bottle, combine one part white vinegar and two parts warm water. Then, spray the solution onto the window and wipe it away with newspaper.

You can also add a drop of dishwashing liquid to the mix for additional cleaning power. The mixture of vinegar and newspaper will assist in removing filth and dirt from your windows while leaving no streaks.

Adding a few drops of essential oil to your cleaning solution for a pleasant scent 

A few drops of essential oil in your cleaning solution can help make your living space smell nice and inviting. Essential oils are completely natural and provide numerous health benefits, including anti-bacterial and anti-fungal characteristics.

They can also give peaceful, soothing scents, making the living space feel more tranquil. Before using essential oils in your cleaning solution, make sure you dilute them with water. You can also use a few drops of the oil on its own in a diffuser or spray bottle for an easy and effective way to freshen up the living room. 

By adding a few drops of essential oil to your cleaning solution, you can create a pleasant scent without using any harsh chemicals.

Having separate cloths for different cleaning areas, such as one for the bathroom and one for 

Separate cloths for different parts of the living room can help prevent the spread of dirt and bacteria. Using a single towel to clean all areas of the living room might make it difficult to thoroughly remove dirt, dust, and debris. Using a single cloth in the bathroom, for example, may allow bacteria to spread across the entire living room.

To avoid this, use different fabrics for different areas of the living room. One cloth can be used in the bathroom, another in the kitchen and dining room, and a third for upholstery or furniture. This way, you can avoid spreading dirt and bacteria while still keeping your living space clean and sanitary.

Using a floor steamer or steam mop on hardwood floors

On hardwood floors, using a floor steamer or steam mop can be an excellent way to maintain them clean and beautiful. Steam cleaners use hot water vapor to penetrate deep into the pores of the wood, assisting in the removal of dirt, grime, and even bacteria from the surface.

Furthermore, when compared to regular mopping, using a steam cleaner dramatically reduces drying time. The steam helps loosen dirt and grime off the floor, making cleanup quick and easy. And because they do not require harsh chemicals or abrasive washing, steam mops are excellent at protecting the wood’s finish.  ​

9. Improving Air Quality in Your Living Room 

The air we breathe in our living room is critical to our health and well-being. Poor air quality can cause everything from allergies and asthma to long-term health problems like lung cancer. Improving the air quality in your living room can assist to lessen these dangers and make breathing easier.

You may help improve the air quality in your living room by cleaning and dusting on a regular basis, utilizing HEPA air purifiers, and avoiding harsh chemical-based cleaners. Taking these actions can help you breathe clean, healthy air in your living room. 

Using air filters 

Using air filters in your living room can help trap dust, pollen, and other potentially dangerous airborne particles. Air filters are available in a range of sizes and types, from small tabletop devices to larger floor or wall-mounted units. Look for air filters with high efficiency particulate arrestance (HEPA) filters as these are designed to collect the smallest particles in the air.

You should also clean or change your air filter on a regular basis to ensure that it is working properly. You may can enhance the air quality in your living room and minimize any unwanted particles in the air by using a high-quality air filter.

Regularly opening windows to allow in fresh air 

Fresh air helps reduce the presence of pollutants and can revitalize the atmosphere in your home. When opening windows, try to open them on opposite sides of the room so that airflow is maximized. 

Additionally, you should also make sure to open windows only when the outside air is clean, as pollutants from cars and factories can sometimes blow inside. By bringing in fresh air regularly, you can help reduce any indoor pollution and make breathing easier.  

Avoiding the use of chemical-based cleaning products 

Using chemical-based cleaning products in your living room can have a negative effect on air quality. Some of these chemicals can create strong odors, while others can be toxic and even irritate the skin or respiratory system. 

For healthier indoor air, it is best to avoid using any products that contain strong chemicals or fumes. Instead, look for natural and non-toxic alternatives that are effective at cleaning while still being safe for your health. 

By avoiding chemical-based cleaning products, you can help maintain a healthier air quality in your living room.  ​

Keeping indoor plants that help filter out toxins  

Indoor plants can help improve air quality in your living room by naturally filtering out toxins and pollutants. Plants such as spider plants, peace lilies, aloe vera, and ferns are particularly effective at removing common indoor pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. 

Additionally, plants also produce oxygen and essential oils that can help maintain healthy air circulation in your home. By keeping a few indoor plants in your living room, you can help create a cleaner and healthier environment.

In Conclusion 

These steps, combined with regular cleaning of your living room, will keep your home in fantastic condition. We are confident that if you follow this guide, you will be able to improve the cleanliness of your living room while also creating a healthier and more comfortable home for yourself and your family for many years to come!

FAQ

Q: What is the best way to quickly clean a living room?

A: The best way to quickly clean a living room is to dust, vacuum and open windows regularly. Additionally, using HEPA air filters and avoiding chemical-based cleaning products can help reduce pollutants in your living room. Finally, keeping indoor plants in your living room can help naturally filter out toxins and maintain healthy air circulation. By following these steps, you can ensure that your living room is clean and free of any pollutants or allergens.

Q: How do I improve air quality in my living room?

A: There are several ways to improve air quality in your living room. Opening windows regularly to let in fresh air, avoiding the use of chemical-based cleaning products, and using HEPA air filters are all effective ways to improve air quality. Additionally, keeping indoor plants in your living room can help naturally filter out toxins and maintain healthy air circulation. By following these steps, you can ensure that your living room is clean and free of any pollutants or allergens.

Q: What are some natural, non-toxic cleaning products I can use in my living room?

A: Natural and non-toxic alternatives to chemical-based cleaning products include vinegar, baking soda, castile soap, lemon juice, and essential oils. Many of these ingredients are effective at cleaning while still being safe for your health. By avoiding chemical-based cleaning products, you can help maintain a healthier air quality in your living room. ​​​​

Q: What plants are good for cleaning the air in a living room?

A: Plants such as spider plants, peace lilies, aloe vera, and ferns are particularly effective at removing common indoor pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. Keeping these types of plants in your living room can help improve air quality by naturally filtering out toxins and pollutants. Additionally, plants also produce oxygen and essential oils that can help maintain healthy air circulation in your home.​​​

Keep Reading!

Scandinavian Design Will Vastly Improve Your Living Room (freshhomeguide.com)

Living Rooms Must Be Clean, Inviting Spaces with Cool Décor (freshhomeguide.com)

How to Make Your Living Room Look Bigger | Fresh Home Guide

Joseph and Family
About Joseph D. Nielson

Former journalist and editor for various press groups, I now dedicate my time to reviewing products for the home and family life. When I get time to myself, I enjoy rock climbing, taking my dirt bike for a rip, and most importantly providing my family with the best home possible!