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Speed-Clean a Big Bookcase

Markor bookshelf from Ikea

Want to be decluttered and dusted in 15 minutes or less? Here’s what you’ll need: an apron with pockets, an old sheet, silica-gel packets, a Swiffer duster with an extendable handle, an Alvin dry-cleaning pad, a hair dryer, an extension cord, and a step stool.

  • Minute 1: Put on an apron with pockets, and lay an old sheet around the base of the bookcase.
  • Minute 2: Scan your books. If you see any you’ve been meaning to get rid of, toss them in a pile for donation.
  • Minute 3: Load your apron pockets with a few Swiffer sheets, about a dozen silica-gel packets, and the dry-cleaning pad. Grab the extendable duster and swipe the top of the bookshelf.
  • Minutes 4 to 5: Plug in a hair dryer and climb a step stool to the highest shelf. Turn the dryer on a high-cold setting and blow dust off the tops and spines of books, working your way down the bookcase.
  • Minutes 6 to 9: Head back to the top. Pull books halfway out, four or five at a time, and reach back with a Swiffer sheet to pick up the dust that you just blew off. If you see any dirt on cloth spines or covers, gently dab it away with the dry-cleaning pad.
  • Minutes 10 to 12: Push books all the way back and use a Swiffer sheet to clean the area in front.
  • Minute 13: Wipe the frame of the bookcase with a Swiffer sheet or the extendable duster.
  • Minute 14: Reposition books a couple of inches from the edge of each shelf. Toss a few silica-gel packets behind each row.
  • Minute 15: Roll up the sheet and shake the dust from it outdoors. Now peruse your pristine library and find the right title to read (or reread) next.

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