Between work deadlines, L rides, and everything that makes Chicago life fast-paced and full, finding time to clean your apartment or home often feels impossible. But here’s a little secret—your space might not be as dirty as it seems. You could just be cleaning in the wrong order.

Chicago Apartments Aren’t Dirty—You’re Just Cleaning Backwards

Welcome to the Upside-Down World of Cleaning

Chicago apartments often have charm and character—but they also collect grime with city living. Still, if your home never quite looks clean no matter how much effort you put in, you’re not alone. Many people are simply cleaning in a way that redistributes dirt instead of removing it. Let’s flip the process and change that.

Why Cleaning Order Matters

You vacuum first, then dust—and wonder why surfaces are still covered in particles. Sound familiar? Backwards cleaning habits actually undo your hard work. A proper cleaning sequence saves time and delivers better results. Whether you’re tackling a single room or ready for a deep clean of your entire place, knowing what to clean first is everything.

The Forward Cleaning Method—Step-by-Step

1. Start at the Top and Work Down

Dust and debris fall naturally downward, so your cleaning should follow gravity. Begin with high surfaces like shelves, ceiling fan blades, crown molding, and light fixtures.

• Use a microfiber cloth or duster to trap dust, not spread it.
• Don’t forget tall furniture tops and picture frames.

2. Declutter Before You Disinfect

Before wiping down any countertops or surfaces, clear them off first. It’s much easier to disinfect a kitchen when you’re not working around spice bottles and junk mail.

• Have a catch-all bin for quick stow-away during cleaning.
• Take 5 minutes to put things where they belong.

3. Dry Clean First, Wet Clean Second

That means wiping dust away dry before introducing any spray or cleaner. Why? Wetting down dusty surfaces turns dirt into mud—and then it gets smeared everywhere.

• Dry cloth or static duster first.
• Then apply non-toxic cleaner or DIY solution.

4. Tackle the Floors Last—Always

No matter how tempting it is to vacuum your apartment first, it’s a losing game. Slot floor cleaning at the very end after dusting and wiping everything else. You’ll thank yourself later!

• Use a HEPA vacuum, especially in high-rise buildings with fine dust.
• Mop only after vacuuming to avoid grime streaks.

5. Don’t Clean the Same Room Over and Over

It’s easy to fixate on your bathroom or bedroom and overlook other areas. Rotate focus weekly so your apartment stays balanced. A clean home is an all-around effort—not just a tidy living room.

6. Clean Tools = Cleaner Results

Ever notice a streaky mirror or funky-smelling kitchen from your “cleaning”? Might be your tools. Dirty sponges, mops, and cloths spread bacteria and grease. Wash or replace your supplies regularly to prevent cross-contamination.

None of this needs to be overwhelming. Keeping your Chicago space truly clean is all about cleaning smarter, not harder—and knowing when to call in backup.

Bonus Tip: Let Pros Handle the Deep Stuff

Sometimes, the best order of business is to outsource deep cleaning altogether. If you’re overdue for a reset, professional cleaners can restore balance in just one go. Schedule a full apartment cleaning in Chicago that hits the reset button—then maintain it weekly or monthly.

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