Busy home-owners know how time-consuming it can be to clean your residence from top to bottom. Whether you live in an efficiency apartment or a multi-room mansion, house cleaning requires time and effort that many of us would rather spend doing other things.


When you're in a hurry, not feeling well, or expecting company, here are a few hints to get your home looking neat and tidy without heavy duty scrubbing or clean-up:


1. Put away the largest items. Vacuum sweepers that are left sitting in the middle of the living room or to one side in a bedroom should be pushed into a closet or stored in the utility or laundry room. Cartons, large toys, exercise equipment, and extra furniture can take up a lot of space, especially if you live in a small unit or compact house. Store these items out of viewing so that the space they occupied can be opened up. Your home will look more spacious and clean automatically, since a cramped room appears untidy and perhaps messy. If you have no storage space for such things, consider purchasing a portable utility closet and a moveable trunk or storage bin that can be taken from room to room as needed.


2. Pick up excess clutter. Have the kids put their toys away in their bedroom closets or in a toy box that sits to one side. Next, tell the children to put away their unworn clothing, such as extra pairs of shoes, discarded socks, and jackets left out of the closet. These tasks will help them build character as well as help you get the house in neat condition. While they do their chores, walk through each main room and pick up unnecessary things, such as old newspapers and magazines, unread books, household supplies, or other items that can be stored elsewhere. Out of sight, out of mind.


3. Place dirty dishes in the dishwasher. Clear the table and counters of all used tableware and wipe these areas clear of crumbs and spills. Set dirty cooking pans in the sink to soak, or bring them to a slight boil on the stove to loosen cooked-on debris, then carefully pour out the hot water in the sink and scrub these for putting away. Store all food in proper containers, whether it be in the freezer, refrigerator, or cupboards. Now your kitchen and dining room should appear orderly since you have cleared the clutter.


4. Make the beds in the bedrooms. Pick up clothes and throw them in the laundry hamper or put them away if they are clean or can be worn again. Place knitting baskets, reading material, crafts, and computer supplies (such as disks, paper, etc.) in nearby storage cupboards. Clear the dressers of extra items, such as loose change, receipts, jewelry, and notes. Close the closet doors and remove laundry baskets or household supplies to clear the area.


5. Get rid of unneeded furniture. If your living room looks crowded with that footstool, move it to the basement. Take the extra rocking chair to the family room or one of the bedrooms. Remove excess end tables so that there is plenty of space to move around. Trim back large plants or move some to another room. (Don't forget the patio in good weather!) Pick up anything lying on the floor that can be put elsewhere. A neat floor can make the whole room look larger and tidier.


In a matter of minutes your home can assume that look of careful attention and orderly living that means so much to home-owner and guests alike. Plan a few thoughtful tasks in advance, and with the kids' help, your home will be fit for a visit from royalty.