Why a Tidy Home Feels Bigger (and Sells Faster!): How the 20/10 Cleaning Method Can Transform Your Space

Ever feel like your home is bursting at the seams, even though you know you don’t have that much stuff? Or maybe you’re daydreaming about listing your house but can’t imagine where to start because, well… life happens and cleaning falls to the bottom of the list.

Don’t worry — you’re not alone. Today, I want to share a little life hack that helps homeowners and home sellers keep their spaces fresh, stress-free, and ready for that unexpected “Can I stop by to see the house?” moment: the 20/10 cleaning method.

What Is the 20/10 Cleaning Method, Anyway?
Why This Method Works for Busy Homeowners
A Tidy Home Feels Bigger
The Real Estate Connection — It’s Not Just About Pretty Pictures
How to Start — Even If You’re a Cleaning Skeptic
Give Yourself Grace
Ready to Fall in Love With Your Home Again?

What Is the 20/10 Cleaning Method, Anyway?

Think of it as a power boost for your cleaning routine — without the burnout. The idea is simple:

✅ Clean for 20 minutes
✅ Rest for 10 minutes
✅ Repeat as needed!

Instead of tackling your entire home in one marathon session (hello, exhaustion and procrastination!), you break it up into bite-sized chunks. It’s realistic, energizing, and — as cleaning pros love to say — surprisingly effective.

Why This Method Works for Busy Homeowners

Whether you’re juggling work, kids, pets, or just life in general, finding time to deep clean can feel impossible. The 20/10 rule fits easily around your schedule and doesn’t demand perfection. Some days, you might squeeze in just one round. Other days, you’ll knock out three and wonder how you ever lived without it!

Quick tip: Focus your 20-minute bursts on high-impact spots first — think the kitchen, living room, or entryway. These areas shape your home’s vibe, whether you’re living in it or showing it to potential buyers.

A Tidy Home Feels Bigger

Real talk: clutter shrinks a room. Even a spacious living area can feel cramped when it’s packed with mail, toys, or random “I’ll deal with it later” piles.

By using the 20/10 method regularly, you’ll notice an almost magical side effect: your home feels more open and inviting. It’s like gaining square footage without renovating!

The Real Estate Connection — It’s Not Just About Pretty Pictures

If you’re thinking about selling your home someday or even if you’re just curious about keeping its value high, regular tidying is your secret weapon.

Here’s why:

First impressions matter. Buyers (and guests!) decide how they feel about a home within seconds.
Photos pop more. Real estate listings with bright, uncluttered spaces attract more clicks and showings.
Stress less. When you get a sudden “We’d love to schedule a tour!” you won’t panic. You’re already ahead of the game.

So, while a fresh coat of paint and stylish décor help, a truly clean, organized home makes everything shine brighter and often sells faster and for a better price.

How to Start — Even If You’re a Cleaning Skeptic

If you’re thinking “Okay, this sounds nice, but I don’t even know where to start…” — here’s my quick-start plan:

1️⃣ Pick one room or area. Maybe the kitchen counter or your coffee table.
2️⃣ Grab your supplies before you start. No wasting time hunting for a rag mid-session.
3️⃣ Set a timer you can hear — but don’t watch the clock.
4️⃣ Clean with focus for 20 minutes. Music or a podcast helps!
5️⃣ Take a guilt-free 10-minute break. Stretch, sip your favorite drink, or step outside.

Repeat as needed or stop when you feel accomplished for the day.

Give Yourself Grace

Here’s the best part: the 20/10 method isn’t rigid. Some days you’ll do 10/5, other days you might push through 30/10. The goal is progress, not perfection.

A cleaner, calmer home is within reach — and your future self (and maybe your future buyer) will thank you for it!

Ready to Fall in Love With Your Home Again?

Your house doesn’t have to be perfect to feel wonderful. With a simple routine like the 20/10 method, you’ll not only reclaim your weekends, but you’ll also keep your home feeling spacious and welcoming, whether you’re planning to live there for years or you’re thinking about that exciting next chapter.

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