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Living in a student apartment offers independence and flexibility, but it’s important for those freedoms not to result in disarray. Between classes, socializing, work, and any other responsibilities you may be juggling, it’s easy to overlook another important task: cleaning your apartment. Fortunately, the task doesn’t have to be stressful or drawn-out. Here’s what you can do to get your living space clean and tidy.

1. Make a List

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when your whole place is messy, but by making a list, you can determine everything that needs to be done and stay on track. Plus, as you cross tasks off, you’ll enjoy a feeling of accomplishment. Consider going from room to room to see what needs to get done.

2. Coordinate with Your Roommates

It’s everyone’s responsibility to clean the apartment. Leaving the majority of the work to just one roommate is a great way to lose friends fast. Plus, if word spreads, you may struggle to find roommates next year!

If any of your roommates slack on their responsibilities, sit down with them and find out what’s going on. Approaching the subject in a way that’s non-accusatory is best, as your roommate may simply be feeling overwhelmed. Offer to take on their tasks this week in exchange for them picking up yours next time. By supporting one another, you’re likely to maintain a good relationship and a tidy living space.

3. Work from the Top Down

It makes sense to begin at the top of rooms and work your way down. Otherwise, you may end up creating more work for yourself. Start with the ceilings, paying particular attention to cobwebs in the corners and dust on the light fixtures. Next, move on to the walls: check there is no damage more significant than small holes where you nailed pictures, wipe the light switches, dust the windowsills, clean the windows (at least on the inside — the outside may be too dangerous for you to do yourself), and polish the door handles.

Only move on to the floors once you’ve cleaned everything else. Leaving this until last will mean you remove any dust or grime that falls on the floor while you’re cleaning other areas. If the apartment has carpets, vacuum them and use spot remover on any stains.

4. Pay Particular Attention to the Kitchen and Bathrooms

The most challenging rooms to clean are the kitchen and bathrooms. However, they’re extra important because they’re also the places where germs are most likely to dwell.

If you’re doing a deep cleaning of the kitchen, start by cleaning out the cupboards. Search for spills and splatters you could easily miss, such as on the ceiling and down the sides of appliances. You’ll also need to clean inside appliances (including the refrigerator, freezer, oven, and microwave), cabinets, and drawers.

As for the bathroom, cleaning mainly means scrubbing the sink, shower, and tub to remove stains from soap and hard water. Don’t forget the faucet and mirrors. Finally, make sure the drains are clear of hair, clean the toilet, and wash the floor.

Cleaning an entire apartment can be overwhelming. You can limit how much you need by — instead of looking for an entire apartment — searching for rooms for rent. Barrie students can rent a room in a townhouse at Arcadian Students. You’ll share your home with four other students, but you’ll only be responsible for making sure your private bedroom and bathroom are clean. Apply now for a lease before all the available rooms are gone.