How to have guests over without going on a crazy cleaning spree beforehand.

So what’s the secret tokeeping things clean?

Tidy Up as You Go

Did you try on two or three outfits before picking your outfit?

Doing the Dishes

Credit: KidStock / Getty Images

Use a few pans to preparebreakfast?

Clean it up and put it all away before you move on.

Wipe Down Surfaces

A quick wipe-down can do wonders.

2023 Idea House Laundry Room

Credit:LAUREY W. GLENN; STYLIST: MATTHEW GLEASON

Keep your counters and office clutter-free by establishing designated places for paper in your home.

Make a drawer for takeout menus and coupons.

Create folders for bills, school memos, and other important printouts.

Put these items in their place as soon as you get them.

Stuff is wreaking havoc in homes across the South.

It’s much easier to keep a home organized when there is less clutter in it.

Treasure items with meaning, but don’t collect unnecessary junk.

You’re not doing it right.

Give your refrigerator aweekly refresh.

The longer you let your pots and pans linger, the harder they’ll be to clean.

You’ll thank yourself in the morning.

Dont unload the days junk onto the dining room table orkitchen counter.

Take a few minutes to put lunchboxes, coats, and mail away when you get home.

Stay organized with over-the-door hooks, back-of-door organizers, and under-bed storage bags to keep like items stored neatly.