Dirt Defense

You can keep your house cleaner by preventing outdoor dirt from getting in. Use doormats and boot scrapers. As needed, sweep sidewalks, steps and stairwells leading to your home. If you have the space, set up a mudroom, where wet and soiled clothing and boots can be removed and stored.

To reduce airborne dust, regularly vacuum registers and radiators. Change the filters in your air conditioners and furnace, following the manufacturer's instructions. If you have severe allergies, hire a professional yearly to clean heating and ventilation ducts to reduce dust and molds.



Reprinted with Permission of Hearst Communications, Inc. Originally Published: http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/organizing/speed-cleaning-mar03