Life in Chicago moves fast. Between packed train rides, jammed schedules, and unpredictable weather, keeping your apartment clean can feel like climbing the Willis Tower. But the truth is—even Chicagoans with the best intentions are still falling for some major cleaning myths. It’s time to set the record straight and help your home shine brighter than Lake Michigan at sunrise.

Chicago Apartments Are Filthy—7 Cleaning Lies You Still Believe

1. “Clutter isn’t dirt.”

Think again. In places like Chicago where dust, pollen, and urban grime sneak in constantly, clutter gives dirt a cozy hiding spot. That pile of magazines? Dust trap. Your worn-out welcome mat? Bacteria breeding ground. If you’re ignoring the clutter, you’re basically inviting the dirt to stay.

Instead, make time for professional apartment cleaning services so you can tackle both clutter and cleanliness in one go.

2. “If it smells clean, it is clean.”

Sorry, but a lemony scent doesn’t mean surfaces are germ-free. Many conventional cleaners just mask odors without tackling the actual bacteria. Your kitchen counter might smell fresh, but that doesn’t mean it’s sanitary after prepping raw chicken.

Let a team of Chicago cleaning professionals bring hospital-grade sanitation to your space—no guesswork involved.

3. “I vacuum once a week, that’s enough.”

In high-traffic areas like Uptown or Lakeview, your floors are magnets for city debris. Vacuuming weekly might work in the suburbs, but in your Chicago apartment? Twice a week (at least) is the new standard.

• Vacuum rugs and carpets regularly
• Don’t forget baseboards and corners
• Use a HEPA filter to trap airborne dust and city pollution

Or just book a cleaning service you can rely on, and breathe cleaner air without the hassle.

4. “Bleach fixes everything.”

Bleach is powerful, but it’s not a miracle worker. It disinfects—but it doesn’t clean dirt or grime. Plus, misuse of bleach (looking at you, mismatched cocktail of cleaning agents) can cause harmful fumes.

A tailored, room-specific approach—like what we use during our deep cleaning services—is much more effective and safer.

5. “My apartment looks fine—I don’t need help.”

That “clean enough” feeling might be fooling you. Hidden germs in high-touch areas (light switches, doorknobs, remotes) could be quietly spreading contaminants. Unfortunately, most people skip these regularly.

A trained eye from a local cleaning company catches what you miss—and keeps you and your loved ones healthier.

6. “Green products don’t really clean.”

Myth! Eco-friendly products have come a long way. Today’s green cleaners are tough on messes and gentle on the environment (and your lungs). No need to trade cleanliness for conscience.

Every residential cleaning we offer uses non-toxic, biodegradable products that are tough on grime but kind to your space and pets.

7. “I can save money by doing it all myself.”

You might save a few bucks at first, but doing a half-job can cost you more in the long run—worn-out furniture, moldy corners, and neglected appliances all come with price tags. Especially in humid Chicago summers or frosty winters, small cleaning slips can turn into big problems.

Choose a trustworthy Chicago home cleaning service that gets the job done right the first time—so you don’t have to do it twice.

Curious about our rates? It’s quick and easy to get a free quote for your Chicago apartment or home—no obligation!