Scandinavian Tricks That Will Make Home Cleaning Easier

Scandinavians are known for their cozy homes, calm spaces, and simple way of living. But behind those beautiful interiors lies another secret: they know how to keep their homes clean without making it feel like a never-ending chore. Instead of scrubbing for hours, they use clever habits and smart tricks that save time, reduce stress, and keep everything looking fresh.

Here are some Scandinavian cleaning tricks you can borrow to make your own home feel lighter, cleaner, and easier to manage.

1. Start with Less Stuff

One of the biggest Scandinavian secrets is minimalism. The less clutter you have, the less you need to clean. They prefer functional furniture, simple décor, and fewer items on display. This makes dusting and tidying up much quicker.

2. Clean a Little Every Day

Instead of saving everything for “big cleaning days,” Scandinavians clean in small doses. Wiping the counter right after cooking, rinsing the sink after brushing teeth, or sweeping the entryway daily prevents dirt from building up. It’s easier to spend 5 minutes daily than 3 hours on the weekend.

3. Fresh Air Is the Best Cleaner

Scandinavian homes are aired out daily, even in winter. Opening the windows for 5–10 minutes clears moisture, removes odors, and makes the home feel fresh instantly. Good airflow also prevents mold, which is a big help in kitchens and bathrooms.

4. Natural Cleaners Over Chemicals

Instead of harsh cleaners, Scandinavians often rely on mild soaps, baking soda, and eco-friendly sprays. They believe strong chemicals aren’t always necessary for everyday cleaning. A simple mix of soap and warm water can clean most surfaces safely.

5. Keep Cleaning Tools Handy

In Scandinavian homes, you’ll notice brooms, brushes, and cloths are kept close to where they’re needed. A small dustpan in the kitchen, a scrub brush in the shower, or microfiber cloths under the sink make it easy to clean on the spot instead of postponing.

6. Focus on Entryways

Since rain, snow, and mud are common in Nordic countries, they pay extra attention to the entrance. Shoes are always left at the door, and mats or rugs trap dirt before it spreads inside. This one habit cuts cleaning time by half because less dirt reaches the rest of the home.

7. Make It Cozy While Cleaning

Scandinavians believe cleaning doesn’t have to feel like punishment. They’ll put on music, light a candle, or make the space feel cozy while tidying up. This mindset makes cleaning more enjoyable and less like a chore.

8. Multi-Purpose Furniture Helps

Another smart trick is using furniture with storage—like benches with hidden compartments or tables with drawers. This reduces visible clutter and makes dusting much faster.

9. Quick Evening Reset

Before going to bed, Scandinavians often do a quick reset: fluffing cushions, folding blankets, clearing dishes, and wiping the table. This takes less than 10 minutes but makes mornings calmer and the home instantly cleaner.

Scandinavian vs. American Cleaning Habits

While Scandinavian cleaning is all about simplicity and prevention, American cleaning often focuses on bigger, less frequent cleaning sessions. Here are some differences:

• Frequency: Scandinavians prefer small daily habits, while many Americans set aside a full Saturday or Sunday for cleaning.
• Products: Natural, mild cleaners are common in Scandinavian homes, while in the U.S., there’s a stronger reliance on bleach-based and multi-surface chemical cleaners.
• Mindset: Scandinavians treat cleaning as part of daily living and even make it cozy, while Americans often see it as a chore to get over with.
• Clutter: Minimalism in Scandinavian homes means less stuff to move and clean around, whereas many American homes have more décor, furniture, and storage, which requires extra effort.
• Entryways: In Scandinavia, shoes are rarely worn indoors, reducing dirt and dust. In the U.S., shoe habits vary, which can mean more vacuuming and mopping.

Borrowing just a few Scandinavian habits—like airing out the home, cleaning a little each day, and simplifying décor—can make cleaning less overwhelming and more enjoyable no matter where you live.

Quick Scandinavian Cleaning Checklist

• Declutter first, then clean
• Open windows daily for fresh air
• Wipe surfaces after each use
• Keep entryways dirt-free
• Use gentle, natural cleaners
• Store cleaning tools where you need them
• Do a short evening reset before bed

Scandinavian-Inspired Cleaning Starter Kit

Want to clean like the Nordics? Here are a few essentials that reflect their simple, effective, and eco-friendly approach:

• Microfiber cloths – Gentle on surfaces and reusable
• Soft-bristle brush – Perfect for scrubbing sinks, grout, and showers
• Mild soap flakes or gentle dish soap – Traditional Scandinavian choice for all-purpose cleaning
• Spray bottle with warm water + soap mix – Quick cleaner for everyday messes
• Baking soda – Natural scrub for tough stains
• Doormats (inside & outside) – To trap dirt before it spreads indoors
• Compact broom and dustpan – Easy to grab for quick daily sweeps
• Squeegee – Essential for windows, mirrors, and showers to prevent streaks and water stains
• Basket or tote – To keep cleaning tools organized and easy to carry room to room