Practical Strategies for Keeping Kids’ Rooms Clean

Every parent knows the unique challenges that come with keeping kids’ bedrooms neat and tidy. From sticky patches on furniture to artistic wall murals, kids’ rooms present cleaning challenges unlike any other space in the home. This guide will walk you through practical, tested strategies for tackling the most common cleaning challenges and tricky stains in these rooms to keep them looking their best.

Tackling Stubborn Stains

Crayon and Pen Removal

When facing crayon masterpieces on your walls or furniture, reach for a simple solution of bicarbonate of soda and water to create a gentle paste that removes marks without damaging paint. For particularly stubborn stains on walls, a small amount of WD-40 on a cloth can work wonders, followed by washing with mild soap and water. Permanent marker presents a greater challenge, but it isn’t impossible—rubbing alcohol applied with a cotton ball can gradually lift these stains from most surfaces, though always test in an inconspicuous area first.

Food and Drink Spills

Secret snacks and bedroom picnics inevitably lead to spills and stains that require prompt attention. For juice or milk spills on carpeting, immediately blot with clean, dry towels to remove as much liquid as possible, then treat with a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water.

For sticky residue on furniture, a mixture of dish soap and warm water applied with a soft cloth usually does the trick without damaging finishes. For particularly challenging are set-in stains like chocolate or ketchup, your carpets may benefit from a deep carpet clean to lift the stain and freshen up the floors.

Accidents and Illnesses

Every parent faces the inevitable nighttime accidents or sudden illnesses that leave unwelcome stains and odours. For mattress protection, invest in quality waterproof mattress covers that can be easily laundered, but for any other accidents, act quickly.

Blot up excess moisture, then treat with an enzyme-based cleaner specifically designed for biological matter. These specialised cleaners break down proteins in bodily fluids to eliminate both stains and smells. Always finish with a child-safe disinfectant spray that eliminates germs without introducing harsh chemicals that might irritate sensitive skin or respiratory systems.

Fabric Care in Kids’ Rooms

Curtain Cleaning Strategies

Curtains in children’s rooms collect dust, absorb odours, and sometimes become playthings, making them particularly prone to soiling. Establish a quarterly schedule for machine washing lightweight curtains, using the gentle cycle with mild detergent. For heavier fabrics that can’t be machine washed, regular vacuuming with an upholstery attachment prevents dust build-up, while spot cleaning with a gentle fabric cleaner addresses fingerprints and small stains.

In humid environments or rooms where windows are frequently left open, check curtains periodically for mildew and mould, treating any spots with a mixture of borax and water. It’s also a good idea to select machine-washable curtain styles when replacing window treatments, or opt for blinds with fabric valances that minimise fabric while still adding colour and style to the room.

Bedding Deep Cleans

Children’s bedding requires special attention due to intense use, frequent spills, and the need to minimise exposure to allergens. Strip beds weekly and wash sheets in hot water with a fragrance-free detergent to eliminate dust mites and other allergens.

For duvets and pillows, follow the manufacturer instructions but aim for washing every 1-3 months, drying thoroughly to prevent mould. For children with allergies or asthma, choose hypoallergenic bedding materials and consider dust mite-proof covers for pillows and mattresses, washing these protective covers monthly at least.

Carpet and Rug Care

For daily maintenance, regular vacuuming prevents dirt from becoming embedded in fibres, while promptly addressing spills prevents permanent staining. When spot treating carpets, remember that blotting rather than rubbing prevents spreading the stain and damaging the pile. You might want to consider applying a fabric protector spray to rugs and carpets in kids’ rooms every six months to create an invisible barrier that repels liquids and makes cleanup easier.

Maintaining clean, healthy spaces for our children represents an ongoing challenge but targeted cleaning techniques and preventative habits help to keep rooms neat and tidy. It can also help to involve kids in the cleaning process, not only to lighten your own workload but also to teach valuable life skills and a sense of responsibility for personal spaces.

If you need professional guidance on tackling tricky stains or deep cleaning any room in your home, contact Apple Clean today and we’d be happy to help.