Speed-Clean Your Back Entryway

Clear out the entryway. Move area rugs, shoes, and umbrellas just outside the door. Toss non-entry items (toys, books, dirty clothes) into a big tote to redistribute later.

Bang the indoor and outdoor mats against a walkway to loosen dirt. (If your indoor mat is worn, you might want to replace it with one that’s water-absorbent.)

With a moistened Magic Eraser, spot-clean scuffs and mud off walls, doors, and baseboards; go over doorknobs and light switches, too. Catch drips and dry wet spots with a paper towel.

Spritz any windows—inside and out—with glass cleaner and wipe down with a piece of newspaper. Work from left to right and top to bottom.Dust any furniture with a dry microfiber cloth.

Scan the floor and pick up anything too bulky for your vacuum. Give the area a quick once-over with the vacuum. Use the crevice attachment on shoe bins and trays.

Swab the deck with a wet mop, working toward the inside of the house so you can wait there while the floor dries.

Return everything to its rightful place. Now bring on the foot traffic!