snakeophelia's Profile

Over the last two years, we had our house on the market for about eight months, total. Here's what we learned for last-minute cleaning when someone was coming to view the house - most should apply to quick-cleaning for visitors:

1. Dishes go in the oven (if you don't have a glass door)! This is a great trick and you'd be amazed what can go in there. In fact, any kitchen clutter can go in the oven or in the dishwasher, or even in the fridge if you have room.
2. Keep fabric surfaces like couches and beds covered with cheap blankets if you have pets; toss the blankets under the bed or in a closet (or even in the dryer, if you have one) to get a quick pet-hair-free surface.
3. Keep a basket in the den/kitchen empty for paper clutter. Toss everything in and then stow the basket on top of fridge, in closet, under bed, wherever it will fit! This was essential because we didn't want strangers seeing our bank statements lying around.
4. Grab a swiffer in your hand and swipe the TV, counter top, bathroom floor, and any little corners where pet hair might accumulate. This can be done quickly and will get up a lot of gunk.