Sometimes, when we visit someone’s home, we might find ourselves curious about their cleaning habits. Naturally, everyone has their own approach, so it’s unreasonable to expect the same standard of cleanliness from everyone.
That said, there are certain clues that can reveal how thoroughly someone cleans—or even how your spouse or children handle their chores. Assigning tasks doesn’t always guarantee things are cleaned properly, but these tips can help you spot the difference.
When you step into someone’s home, it might appear neat, but there’s often a clear distinction between a deep, thorough cleaning and a quick surface tidy-up. In this article, we’ll share a few signs that might reveal what went on before your arrival.
Cluttered Corners
While the main areas of a room might appear spotless, it’s worth checking the corners, behind doors, and under furniture. These are the spots where dust tends to gather. These areas can reveal whether someone has done a thorough cleaning or just a superficial touch-up. Those who maintain a truly tidy home usually ensure that even the corners are spotless.
Lingering Odors
A truly clean home carries a fresh, pleasant scent. However, some people may rely on air fresheners or scented candles to mask unpleasant odors caused by unclean carpets, pets, or mustiness. While these fragrances can create the illusion of cleanliness, a genuinely clean space doesn’t require an abundance of artificial scents to smell good.
Dust on Surfaces
Dust has a way of settling on almost everything, from shelves and electronics to picture frames and light fixtures. If you notice dust on these surfaces during your visit, it might indicate that regular cleaning isn’t a priority. Consistent dusting prevents buildup and keeps the home looking and feeling fresh.
Signs of Dirt in the Bathroom
The bathroom often reveals the true extent of someone’s cleanliness. While living areas may receive a quick tidy-up, the bathroom can be a giveaway. Look for soap scum, mildew, mold, dust behind the toilet, or buildup on shower doors. A truly clean bathroom will have gleaming fixtures and no dust or grime in sight.
Grease and Crumbs
The kitchen may look spotless at first glance, but closer inspection can reveal grease buildup on cabinets, sticky spots on countertops, and crumbs tucked into corners. Over time, neglecting to clean thoroughly can cause grime to accumulate, making surfaces tell a different story upon closer examination.
Pet Hair
Pet hair lingering on furniture or floors is another clear sign of insufficient cleaning. Even if the space is neatly arranged, the presence of pet hair can indicate overlooked cleaning. Additionally, odors in homes with pets—such as uncleaned litter boxes or a dog that hasn’t been bathed—can further highlight a lack of proper upkeep.
Dirty Windows and Mirrors
Windows and mirrors often betray a home’s true cleanliness. Smudges, fingerprints, and streaks on these surfaces can quickly reveal whether the host pays attention to the finer details of cleaning.
Dusty Baseboards
Vacuum lines on carpets might suggest recent cleaning, but baseboards often tell a different story. Dust and grime on baseboards can indicate skipped spots or a rushed cleaning job. For homes with hardwood floors, sticky patches or dirty grout between tiles can also hint at incomplete cleaning efforts.