7 Spring Cleaning Hacks from 50's Housewives

Even though the 1950s are seen as a simpler time, I’m still thankful we have so many helpful appliances that the 1950s housewife didn’t have. Thanks to modern conveniences like washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers, we don’t have to spend as much cleaning as the a 50's housewife did. The thing is, we may have forgotten some important spring cleaning hacks that used to be passed down through the generations.

We can gain a lot by paying attention to cleaning hacks and tips from 50’s housewives. While you shouldn’t give up your dishwashers or cordless vacuum, you should learn about these DIY cleaning hacks!

1. Use a Damp Cloth for Dusting

If you’ve been dusting with a dry rag, try dampening the cloth just a little. This keeps the dust from going everywhere because the moisture traps the dust. You can then throw it in the wash next time you run a load of rags and let the dust get washed away.

A modern way of dusting is to use a microfiber cloth. The microfibers trap the dust even better than a damp cloth, in my opinion. (Here are my favorite microfiber dusting cloths!)

With the right care, microfiber cloths can last for a long time. Don’t wash them with other things, since they can pick up lint from clothes and towels. You can wash them by hand in cold water or run a load of just microfiber cloths. Either way, make sure you hang them to dry so they don’t melt in the dryer.

2. Work Your Way Down from the Top

Cleaning causes dirt and dust to fall, so it’s always best to start at the top and work your way down. Dusty ceiling fan blades? Clean those before you do any vacuuming. The last thing you want to have to do is re-clean something after you have just finished cleaning it!

3. Deep Clean Every Season

You may have read spring cleaning hacks that tell you which areas to clean in the spring, but don’t limit your deep clean to once a year! Cleaning each season can help you keep up with tasks that only need to be done a few times a year. And even if you don’t get to a certain area regularly, deep cleaning ensures it will get cleaned at least somewhat regularly! If you’re wondering where to start, consider some of these areas:

• Flipping and airing out your mattress 
• Washing the windows – inside and out! 
• Changing HVAC filters
• Washing all bedding, including comforters and mattress pads
• Wiping down all the baseboards
• Cleaning behind appliances like refrigerators and washing machines.

4. Clean Up as You Go

While there’s something to be said for regular deep cleaning, there is also something to be said for cleaning as you go so your seasonal cleaning isn’t so overwhelming! For example, I like to wash my dishes at least twice a day if I can. That way, I’m not left with such a big mess at the end of my workday!

The bathroom is one of my least favorite areas to clean, so cleaning as I go means I don’t have to feel as bad if I don’t get to it right away. A quick wipe of the counters after I brush my teeth and a scrub of the shower each time I finish showering can help me extend the amount of time between full cleanings. (But if you do find yourself with a mess on your hands, there are plenty of bathtub cleaning hacks to make your job easier.)

5. Dust Behind Large Items with a Sheet

Large pieces of furniture, like china cabinets or heavy dressers, are often difficult to move, but that doesn’t stop them from collecting dust. You can drape an old bedsheet down the back of the piece and move it side to side, going from top to bottom. The sheet will trap the dust, and you can easily throw the sheet in the wash.

6. Less is More

Don’t give yourself more to clean than you absolutely must. The reason easy-to-clean surfaces, like tile, are so popular is because they make cleaning so much faster. So, look around your home for items that add to your workload. Throw rugs, shelf liners, and covers can double your work because you often need to clean both the outer layer and the item under it.

7. Use Tea Towels More

Tea towels are typically 100 percent cotton, and you can use them instead of paper towels. They don’t have lint, so they are ideal for cleaning appliances, mopping up spills, and even dusting. You can also leave dishes on them to air dry if you run out of dish drainer space and don’t want to hand dry everything.

I hope these DIY cleaning hacks from the 50’s help your cleaning routine! Adding these to your schedule can help you get more done in the same amount of time.

 

What are your favorite cleaning hacks (vintage or otherwise)?