8 Easy Dorm Cleaning Tricks You Should Know That Cut Your Cleaning Time in Half

Between all of the activities and academics, the last thing most college students want to worry about is cleaning their dorm. But a little tidying is necessary if you want to keep the peace with your roommates. 

We asked experts for easy cleaning tricks to keep dorm rooms spick-and-span so you can spend more time studying or (let’s be honest) hanging out with friends. 

Make Your Bed Every Day

Making your bed may not be the first thing to come to mind, but for Alex Varela, general manager of Dallas Maids, it’s key.

“As simple as it seems, [making your bed] is a fantastic trick to keep your dorm clean,” Varela says.

Because it’s a short task, Varela recommends combining the habit of making your bed with other quick habits, such as doing a short meditation or spending five minutes tidying your desk. 

“Combining habits helps you build momentum,” Varela says. “Once you’re done with A, it’s easier to complete B and C.”

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Set a Daily Timer 

Dreading the thought of spending a Saturday morning cleaning your dorm? Varela says setting aside 10 to 15 minutes every day to clean your dorm is a great way to stay on top of clutter and mess.

Spend each day focused on cleaning one part of the room, such as cleaning surfaces on Monday and floors on Tuesday. 

Wash Dishes As You Go

A pile of dishes caked in crusty leftovers takes up a lot of time to wash (not to mention the sink space!), which is why pros recommend washing dishes after every meal, or at least every night.

Doing five minutes of dishes after a meal is a lot more manageable to work into a schedule and doesn’t cause a lot of overwhelm like a week’s worth of dishes.  

Use Multipurpose Cleaning Products and Tools

Experts say you don’t need a ton of products and tools to keep your space clean. It’s better to choose items that have multiple uses.

“I always encourage people to have a simple approach when it comes to cleaning and stick to 3 to 5 cleaning products max,” Varela says.

Some of the best cleaning supplies include microfiber cloths, an all-purpose cleaner, and a handheld vacuum. 

Stock Up on White Vinegar

White vinegar is a must-have in your cleaning caddy, according to pros.

“It’s one of the most versatile cleaning products and it’s incredibly cheap,” Varela says.

You can use white vinegar to clean bathrooms, tile floors, vinyl, laminate cabinets and drawers, windows, mirrors, and it can even be used for laundry. 

Don’t Forget Under the Bed

One of the dirtiest spots in a dorm room is under the bed, according to ​​Victor Sevilla, customer experience and sales manager at Captain Duster.

“Out of sight, out of mind, and that’s the problem,” Sevilla says. “Quick sweeps under the bed will prevent smells, dust bunnies, and bugs.”

To make deeper cleans faster, Varela also suggests placing furniture pads under the bed or other heavy items to easily move furniture and clean around and underneath it.  

Use Magic Erasers

Magic Erasers are another multi-use product that Sevilla recommends keeping on hand for cleaning around the dorm.

“They’re great for sneaker scuffs, wall marks, and mystery spots on mini-fridge doors,” Sevilla says.

Simply wet the eraser and use it to clean any tough marks around the dorm. The best part? They take up a minimal amount of space. 

Use Plastic Shower Curtains

Varela says many students don’t clean their showers enough, especially shower curtains, which is why she recommends using plastic shower curtains.

“They can be cheap-looking, but they last for years on end and are easy to clean,” Varela says. “Plus, they’re resistant to mold and bacteria.”