When you start cleaning it is important to not track dirt into rooms that you have already cleaned. It is most productive to start in rooms that are not centrally located – usually the bedrooms and bathrooms and then work your way through the rest of the house. Clean the high traffic areas, including the kitchen, last.

Following are some general tips to save time while cleaning:

Save time when cleaning a bathroom by first applying cleaner to the toilet bowl. Then as the cleaner is working, move on to the shower or tub. Remember to start at the top and work your way down. After the shower, finish the toilet, and then move on to the counters, sinks and faucets. As an added touch, clean any soap dishes. Don’t forget to wipe down the walls and light switches. Finish by sweeping and mopping the floor.

For living rooms, bedrooms and dens, begin by dusting high and moving your way down. Wipe down any light switches. Vacuum the room slowly and thoroughly. If you are cleaning a large room or one with furniture that has to be moved, you may want to break the room up into sections.

The kitchen should be one of the last rooms cleaned. The specific way in which you clean a kitchen is determined by its floor plan. As always, work from top to bottom. Begin by cleaning any countertop appliances, such as toasters and microwaves. Then move on to the stovetop and clean with an all-purpose or disinfectant cleaner. Wipe down countertops. Move and clean under appliances. Then wipe down the outside of the refrigerator, oven door and any other large appliances. Clean the sink and then finish by sweeping and mopping the floor.

Working efficiently, having your cleaning products do the work for you, and keeping your equipment in tip-top shape will speed up your cleaning time on any job. And, the less time spent cleaning, the more profits in your pocket!