How to save time cleaning thumb

Cleaning around the house can be a chore.

Floors need to be vacuumed. Counters need to be wiped. Toothpaste specks needs to be removed from mirrors. Toilet bowls need to be cleaned.

It feels never-ending, and that’s because it is never-ending. It has to be done, but it can be done quickly and efficiently. There are some simple ways to make it more manageable, like doing a little bit every day instead of setting aside one day to tackle it all, or keeping a basket of cleaning essentials easily within reach.

Plus, doing a little a lot will help your house feel clean all week.

There are a lot of ways to simplify how you clean, but there’s one simple swap you can make that can have a big impact.

Watch this video for tips to help you spend less time cleaning your house.

Vacuum

Swap out your vacuum!

Every home needs a vacuum, but they don’t need a clunky and corded one. Corded vacuums limit where you can go before needing to search for another outlet and start it all over.

Not to mention, the cord can get stuck over, under and behind furniture – or worse, it can knock things over and make a bigger mess. Then when you’re done vacuuming, you’re not really done because you still have to wind up the cord.

A cordless vacuum makes vacuuming anywhere, anytime so much easier. The ease of use can even make it more enticing to clean up those smaller messes sooner, since it’s a much less cumbersome process.

How to clean a vacuum

Our cleaning tools also need to be cleaned, and that especially applies to our vacuums. A routine cleaning can keep it running smoothly and keep your house cleaner.

This may sound obvious, but don’t let the canister or bag fill up. If you notice buildup on your canister, give it a wash to remove any internal dirt that could cause clogs. Let it air dry completely before putting it back together and vacuuming again.

  • Check your vacuum’s filters — they may also need to be cleaned or replaced.
  • Don’t forget the brush roll. Hair and other debris can wrap around the brush head, making it harder to collect dirt from your floor. Usually, a pair of scissors or a knife can cut through whatever is wound around it.
  • Check for any blockages in the hose.
  • Finally, wipe down the exterior — it’s on the front lines and can get covered in dirt and dust.
  • Before you begin vacuuming, it’s best to open the windows and do any dusting first.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: The one household appliance you should upgrade now

Reporting by Cody Godwin, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect