Moving into student accommodation is, for many people, the first time they’ve moved out of the family home. Living alone (well, sort of) can take some time to adjust to – and cleaning is something you might not be up to speed on if your parents have always taken on that responsibility. So, here are some cleaning hacks and tips for student accommodation ahead of move-in date!
Set up a cleaning schedule
Shared areas of student accommodation can quickly become messy and dirty because of the number of people (and stuff!) there is. It’s so easy for one person to end up being the one to take all of the responsibility; setting up a schedule where it’s clear whose turn it is to do the cleaning is a great way to ensure this doesn’t happen. You all live there, so you should all share the responsibility of keeping the place clean and tidy.
Don’t make it too complicated
With the rise of ‘cleaning accounts’ on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, alongside the abundance of new products in fancy scents on the market, it can be easy to think you need a cupboard full of various different cleaning supplies. But realistically, this really isn’t an eco-friendly way to get about things – plus it causes unnecessary clutter! Get a few key staples, and keep them neatly stored out of direct sunlight. Here’s a list of what you actually need:
Bleach
Microfibre cloths
Antibacterial cleaning spray
Washing up liquid
Dish sponges
Dustpan and brush
Just these 6 items will have you covered in terms of basic cleaning products.
Keep on top of your space
When it comes to your bedroom, you want it to be a place where you can relax, study, and have fun. For that, it needs to be clean and tidy – so keep on top of it! Your room is your responsibility, and by cleaning it regularly it will always be spick and span for you. Make it a priority, once a week, to tidy away any clothes and clutter followed by a quick vacuum and wipe of the surfaces. Change your bedding every couple of weeks, and open the windows to allow fresh air to circulate throughout the room.
Clean up mess as it happens
Whether it’s in your bedroom, the kitchen, or another part of your student accommodation, clean up any mess as it happens. If you spill something, wipe it up – if you drop something, pick it up. Crumbs should be wiped up after you’ve finished cooking, and the dishes done as soon as you’ve eaten. The longer you leave something, the less likely you are to find the motivation to do it. This causes prolonged mess, and that’s how you end up with unclean accommodation that just doesn’t feel like home…
Cleaning isn’t the most fun part of student life, but it is a vital one. It’s important that you stay on top of things and keep your student accommodation nice and tidy!
