How to Fake a Clean Home: 5 Hacks for Busy Moms
Sometimes, life gets in the way of deep cleaning, and that’s okay. As a busy working homeschool mom, I don’t have to tell you how hard it is to find time to do all the things you want or need to do.
That’s why I wanted to share how to fake a clean home with you. Life is busy, and sometimes you just need your home to look clean—whether it’s for unexpected guests, a last-minute virtual meeting, or simply for your own peace of mind. The good news? You don’t need hours to tidy up.
Even with all the cleaning tips for busy moms in your back pocket, a few hacks to keep your house looking clean can make all the difference.
In this post, I’ll share 5 quick cleaning hacks that will help you fake a clean home in no time. These practical tips are perfect for busy homeschool moms who juggle work, family, and everything in between.
Before we get started, don’t forget to sign up for my free printable cleaning schedule below. These are the exact cleaning pages I use—and while I’ll admit I don’t always stick to them, when I do, they make a big difference!
Why Faking a Clean Home is Okay
As a busy homeschool mom, you’re already juggling lessons, work, and family life. Adding hours of deep cleaning to that mix? It’s just not always realistic. That’s where learning how to fake a clean home comes in—it’s not about cutting corners, it’s about being smart with your time.
Sometimes, it’s not about scrubbing every nook and cranny. Instead, focus on creating a space that feels welcoming and calm. Quick cleaning hacks allow you to zero in on the areas that make the biggest visual impact, helping your home look and feel tidy in no time.
Knowing how to fake a clean home isn’t just a time-saver; it’s a stress reliever. Whether you’ve got unexpected guests, a virtual meeting, or you’re just tired of staring at the mess, these simple tricks can make your space look polished without the pressure of perfection.
Remember, this isn’t about “cheating.” It’s about finding ways to prioritize what truly matters—your family, your work, and your peace of mind—while still maintaining a home you’re proud of.
How to Fake a Clean Home: 5 Quick Hacks That Work
These tips will show you exactly how to fake a clean home without stress or spending hours cleaning.
The key is to focus on the small things that make the biggest difference. (I’ve learned some clean by zones but I just pick the areas I feel are quick and easy to clean up.🤷♀️)
Just pick one or two hacks to try today, and slowly add more as you build your routine.
1. Clear the Clutter
The fastest way to make your home look cleaner is to remove visible clutter. Walk through the main living areas—like the kitchen, living room, and entryway—with a basket, tote, or box in hand. Toss in anything that’s out of place: toys, papers, shoes, jackets, or random odds and ends.
Why This Works: Clutter is one of the first things people notice when walking into a room. By quickly clearing surfaces and floors, you create an instant sense of order and calm, even if other areas still need attention.
Pro Tip: Store the basket in a closet or another out-of-sight spot and deal with it later. This gives you immediate results without the added stress of sorting or putting everything away right away.
Disclosure: I may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
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2. Focus on Surfaces
Flat surfaces—like tables, counters, and shelves—are magnets for clutter. A messy countertop or dining table can make the entire room feel chaotic, even if the rest of the space is clean.
Start by clearing these surfaces one at a time. Stack papers neatly or move them to a dedicated spot, such as a basket or drawer, to keep them out of sight. In the kitchen and bathroom, remove unnecessary items from counters and store them in cabinets or drawers to create a cleaner, more streamlined look.
Why This Works: Cluttered surfaces instantly draw attention and can make a tidy room feel messy. Clearing them creates an immediate sense of order and makes the space more inviting.
Pro Tip: Keep only a few intentional items on display, like a vase, a small plant, or a favorite candle. These touches not only enhance the room’s appearance but also make it feel thoughtfully organized.
3. Add a Fresh Scent
A pleasant scent can completely transform the feel of your home, even if you don’t have time to clean everything. Light a candle (my daughter’s favorite method), spray an air freshener, or use an essential oil diffuser to add an inviting aroma to your space.
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Why This Works: Scent is one of the most powerful senses, and guests are more likely to focus on how your home smells than notice minor messes. A clean, fresh scent makes the entire space feel cared for and welcoming.
Pro Tip: Choose a signature scent for your home, like lavender for relaxation or citrus for a refreshing boost. It not only adds a personal touch but also creates a consistent atmosphere that feels intentional.
4. Tidy the Floors
Clean floors create an immediate sense of order and make your home feel well-maintained. Focus on the main living areas, like the entryway, kitchen, or family room, and quickly vacuum or sweep high-traffic zones.
Why This Works: Dirt, crumbs, and debris are some of the first things people notice when walking into a space. Even a quick pass with a vacuum can make a big difference, especially in areas guests are likely to see.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, use a handheld vacuum or stick vacuum for small spaces. Target visible areas rather than tackling the entire house—this keeps the process quick and stress-free.
5. Fluff and Straighten
Neatly arranged pillows, blankets, and bedding can instantly make your home look more polished with minimal effort. Start by fluffing throw pillows, folding blankets, and smoothing out any furniture covers.
In the bedroom, I’m all for the “make your bed daily” rule—but let’s be real, sometimes there’s just no time. On those days, simply smoothing out the bedspread and arranging the pillows can make the entire room feel cleaner, even if nothing else is touched.
Why This Works: Straightened textiles create the illusion of a well-kept home. These small changes can make a room look intentionally styled and welcoming.
Pro Tip: Choose throws and pillowcases in neutral or patterned designs to help hide stains and wrinkles between washes. This keeps things looking fresh without constant upkeep.
Tools to Keep Your Home Clean
Want to stay ahead of the mess? With kids at home, it can feel impossible to maintain a tidy space, but the right resources can make all the difference. Here are a few tools and strategies to help:
- Create a Cleaning Schedule: Check out my Homeschool Mom Cleaning Schedule to learn how to create a cleaning schedule for your family.
- The Cleaning Planner for Busy Moms: For a long-term cleaning strategy, check out my Cleaning Planner, designed with busy homeschool moms in mind.
- Clean your house in one day: If you have a full day, here is how you can get your messy house clean!
- Download the Free Printable Cleaning Schedule: My FREE Printable Cleaning Schedule is a simple tool to help you prioritize tasks, save time, and master how to fake a clean home when life gets busy.
Learning how to fake a clean home doesn’t have to be stressful. Try these hacks today and take the first step toward creating a space you love—quickly and easily!
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Hi, I’m Jen. I help working moms juggle their career and homeschool their kids by providing support, systems and tools. You are warmly invited to Join the Online Community Here!
