As the year winds down, everyone wants their space to feel fresh, welcoming, and ready for whatever comes next — whether that’s holiday guests at home or clients in the office. That’s why we’ve put together the 12 Days of Cleaning Hacks, inspired by The Most Googled Tips of 2025 and elevated with Urban Clean’s professional know‑how. These hacks are quick, effective, and guaranteed to make your space sparkle.
Day 1: Microwave Steam Magic
The microwave is one of the hardest‑working appliances in any home or office, and it shows. Food splatters, lingering odors, and greasy residue can make it look and smell unpleasant. Instead of scrubbing endlessly, fill a microwave‑safe bowl with water, add a splash of vinegar, and drop in a slice of lemon. Heat for five minutes and let the steam loosen the grime. Once done, simply wipe the interior clean.
Urban Clean Pro Tip: Always finish with a microfibre cloth. Unlike paper towels, microfibre grabs grease and residue more effectively, leaving a streak‑free finish that looks professional.
Day 2: Streak‑Free Windows (Official Urban Clean Method)
Few things transform a space like sparkling windows. Natural light flows in, rooms feel brighter, and everything looks fresher. But streaks are the bane of most DIY cleaners. Urban Clean’s official method solves this problem: use cold water with a few drops of detergent, a non‑scratch sponge to loosen dirt, and a squeegee to finish. Work in smooth, overlapping strokes, wiping the blade between passes.
Urban Clean Pro Tip: Professionals know that drying the glass immediately with a microfibre cloth is the secret to clarity. It’s the difference between “good enough” and “hotel‑fresh.”
Day 3: Bathroom Glass Refresh
Bathrooms are high‑traffic areas, and shower screens quickly collect soap scum, calcium spots, and streaks. A quick spray of vinegar might help, but Urban Clean’s approach is more thorough. Use cold water with dish detergent and a sponge with a scrubber side to lift grime. Rinse with clean water, then dry immediately with a microfiber cloth. Finish with a squeegee for that crystal‑clear finish.
Urban Clean Pro Tip: Always clean both sides of the glass. It’s the only way to achieve true clarity and that hotel‑fresh look guests notice instantly.
Day 4: Carpet & Upholstery Reset
Carpets and couches absorb everything — from pet odours to food spills — and over time they lose their freshness. A simple hack is to sprinkle baking soda across the surface, let it sit for 15 minutes, and vacuum thoroughly. This neutralises odors and lifts dirt particles.
Urban Clean Pro Tip: Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap fine dust and allergens. For an extra boost, mix a few drops of essential oil into the baking soda before sprinkling. Lavender or eucalyptus leaves fabrics smelling fresh long after vacuuming.
Day 5: Stainless Steel Shine
Stainless steel appliances and fixtures are beautiful but unforgiving. Every fingerprint, smudge, and streak shows. Instead of buying expensive specialty cleaners, dab a small amount of olive oil or baby oil onto a microfiber cloth and buff the surface.
Urban Clean Pro Tip: Always polish in the direction of the grain. This prevents streaks and keeps the finish looking professional. In commercial kitchens, Urban Clean teams use food‑safe stainless-steel polish, but at home, olive oil works just fine.
Day 6: Dust‑Free Desks
Workspaces collect dust faster than you think — especially around monitors, keyboards, and cables. A quick wipe with a damp microfibre cloth transforms a dull desk into a clean, inviting surface.
Urban Clean Pro Tip: Don’t forget hidden spots like under monitors or behind keyboards. These areas trap dust and can affect air quality. A clean desk isn’t just about looks — it boosts productivity and morale.
Day 7: Cobweb Clear‑Out
Cobwebs and dust around window frames, ceilings, and corners make spaces look neglected. Before cleaning glass or walls, sweep these areas with a soft broom. This prevents dragging dirt across freshly cleaned surfaces.
Urban Clean Pro Tip: Professionals always prep before cleaning. Removing cobwebs first saves time and ensures the final result looks polished, not patchy.
Day 8: Kitchen Sink Sparkle
The kitchen sink is a hotspot for grime and odors. Sprinkle baking soda across the basin, scrub with a sponge, and rinse with vinegar for a fizzing clean that deodorises drains.
Urban Clean Pro Tip: Finish by polishing taps and fixtures with a microfibre cloth. Shiny chrome instantly elevates the look of the entire kitchen.
Day 9: Door Handle Detail
Handles, switches, and railings are touched dozens of times a day, making them prime spots for germs. Wipe them down with disinfectant spray and a lint‑free cloth.
Urban Clean Pro Tip: This small detail makes a big impact. Clients and guests notice when high‑touch points are clean, and it shows you care about hygiene.
Day 10: Floor Finish
Floors take the brunt of daily life. Mop with cold water and detergent, then dry immediately to avoid streaks and slip hazards.
Urban Clean Pro Tip: Professionals always dry floors. It’s safer, looks better, and prevents water marks that dull the finish.
Day 11: Air Fresh Hack
A clean space should smell as good as it looks. Simmer lemon slices and cloves on the stove for a natural scent that fills the room.
Urban Clean Pro Tip: In offices, use essential oil diffusers for a consistent, professional fragrance. Scents like eucalyptus or citrus energise staff and leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Day 12: The Final Polish
The finishing touch is what separates a good clean from a great one. Walk through your space with a microfiber cloth, catching fingerprints on glass, mirrors, and fixtures.
Urban Clean Pro Tip: This detail work is what Urban Clean franchisees are known for. It shows pride, professionalism, and ensures your space feels truly complete.
Final Thought
Getting your space ready — at home or in the office — doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With these 12 hacks and Urban Clean’s professional methods, you can create an environment that feels fresh, welcoming, and polished. Clean spaces aren’t just about appearances; they set the tone for productivity, hospitality, and pride.
If You’re Tired of Chasing Cleaners — We’re Here
If you’re a business owner who’s had enough of the stress, the follow-ups, and the uncertainty, we’re here to help. Urban Clean delivers reliable, consistent, high-quality cleaning — without the frustration. Let us take it off your plate so you can get back to running your business. Let us handle the cleaning and take it off your to-do list — just click here!
And if you’re someone who’s ready to take ownership of your future, we’d love to talk. Whether you’re looking for a flexible income or ready to build a business that scales, our franchise model gives you the tools, training, and support to succeed. Click here to connect with us.
