Life in Chicago moves fast—between work, commutes, and never-ending to-do lists, who really has time to keep their apartment sparkling clean? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by clutter and dust, you’re not alone—and you’re not stuck! These quick and practical hacks will help restore calm and cleanliness to your space, even on your busiest days.

Chicago Apartments Don’t Clean Themselves: 7 Hacks for Busy Lives

1. The 10-Minute Evening Reset

Before you wind down for the night, set a timer for just 10 minutes. Quickly clear visible clutter, wipe down counters, and toss laundry in the hamper. It’s a small task that makes waking up in a tidy space feel amazing.

2. Embrace the Basket System

Keep a catch-all basket in high-traffic areas of your apartment. At the end of each day, toss stray items inside. Once a week, take five minutes to sort and put everything away. It’s a smart way to maintain a clean look with minimal effort.

3. Multitask While You’re Home

Waiting for coffee to brew? Use those few minutes to wipe kitchen counters or sweep the floor. These small tasks add up when built into your daily routine—essential for busy Chicago apartment dwellers.

4. The Power of Natural Cleaning Products

Skip the harsh chemicals! Make your own all-purpose spray using vinegar, water, and a few drops of essential oil. It’s great for surfaces and gives your home a fresh, clean scent.

5. Declutter One Zone a Week

Instead of tackling your whole apartment at once, choose just one area—like the bathroom or entryway—each week to declutter and reorganize. It takes less than 30 minutes and keeps your home feeling light and functional.

6. Set a Cleaning Playlist

Turn on your favorite upbeat songs and clean while you jam out. It makes the time pass faster and creates positive cleaning momentum—a trick many Chicago cleaning professionals swear by.

7. When in Doubt, Hire the Pros

Sometimes, you need backup. Whether you’re prepping for guests or just craving a major refresh, calling in help isn’t indulgent—it’s smart. A professional Chicago cleaning service like Jikas Cleaning will deep clean your space so you can focus on what really matters.

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