Between work, commuting, and squeezing in a social life, it’s no surprise Chicagoans don’t have hours to scrub their apartments every week. But a clean, cozy home doesn’t have to feel impossible. These easy cleaning hacks are designed with busy city life in mind—you can keep your space sparkling without spending your whole weekend doing it.
Chicago Apartments Don’t Clean Themselves: 7 Hacks for Busy Lives
1. The 10-Minute Nightly Reset
Spend just 10 minutes each night cleaning high-traffic zones like your kitchen and bathroom counters. Toss out junk mail, wipe surfaces, and load the dishwasher. This nightly habit helps prevent buildup, and your future self will thank you in the morning.
2. Keep a Caddy of Essentials Nearby
Apartment living in Chicago means space is valuable. Instead of lugging supplies from room to room, keep a simple cleaning caddy with spray cleaner, microfiber cloths, and disinfecting wipes in a closet or under the sink. It makes quick clean-ups convenient and prevents procrastination.
3. Clean While Streaming Your Favorite Show
Waiting for dinner to finish? Fold laundry or sweep the kitchen floor while bingeing Netflix. Pairing mindless chores with your favorite entertainment makes cleaning feel way less like a chore.
4. Prioritize These High-Impact Zones
Want to feel an instant clean-home boost? Focus on:
- Kitchen countertops
- Bathroom sinks and mirrors
- Entryways and floors
Tidying these key spaces makes your whole apartment feel more put together.
5. Embrace “Speed Clean” Saturdays
If your Monday–Friday is packed, block off just 30–45 minutes on Saturday (before brunch!) for a weekly tidy. Set a timer, play upbeat music, and tackle the key rooms fast. Need to free up your weekends altogether? Book a professional apartment cleaning from our Chicago team and enjoy more time outdoors!
6. Automate with Smart Cleaning Tools
Use tech to your advantage. Robot vacuums can run while you’re at work. Drop-in toilet tablets do maintenance between deep cleans. Silicone scrubbers last longer and don’t harbor bacteria like sponges. Small upgrades, big payoff.
7. Let the Pros Handle the Heavy Lifting
Sometimes, a busy life demands backup. Whether you’re getting ready for guests or just can’t catch up, scheduling a deep cleaning can be a total reset. Our team specializes in spotless solutions for bustling households across Chicago.
Curious about our rates? It’s quick and easy to get a free quote for your Chicago apartment or home—no obligation!
Ready for a Clean Home Without the Stress?
If you’re in Chicago and want your space spotless without lifting a finger, Jikas Cleaning is here to help.

