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Speed-Clean Your Back Entryway

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Take your back entryway from filthy to flawless in just 15 minutes. Here's what you'll need: a Waffle Waterhog mat, Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, Swiffer Wetjet Power Mop, a tote bag, paper towels, glass cleaner, sheets of newspaper, a microfiber cloth, and a vacuum.

 

  • Minutes 1 to 2: 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.
  • Minute 3: 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.)
  • Minute 4: 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.
  • Minutes 5 to 6: 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.
  • Minutes 7 to 10: 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.
  • Minutes 11 to 13: Swab the deck with a wet mop, working toward the inside of the house so you can wait there while the floor dries.
  • Minutes 14 to 15: Return everything to its rightful place. Now bring on the foot traffic!

Did we forget anything on this checklist? What would you add?

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