About this episode
Set real cleaning aside. Code red! You've got 15 minutes until someone walks in your front door. What do you do? Top Ten Ways to Fake a Clean House in 15 Minutes 1. Light a Candle (or Two) Instantly changes the mood — cozy, intentional, welcoming Distracts from dust, clutter, or pet smells Choose scents that smell clean (citrus, linen, herbs) rather than heavy perfume Bonus: dim the lights a bit — candlelight hides a multitude of sins 2. Clear the Entryway First impression zone — it matters most Scoop up shoes, boots, coats, and bags — toss into a basket/closet Straighten the rug, sweep quickly if needed Even a vase of grocery store flowers makes it feel “ready for company” 3. Wipe the Bathroom Sink and Swap the Hand Towel Guests almost always use the bathroom — it’s a giveaway space Wipe toothpaste, water spots, and fingerprints off sink and mirror Replace hand towel with a fresh, clean one (even if from the linen closet) Quick check for toilet paper roll and a candle in the corner = instant polish 4. Fluff the Couch Cushions and Toss on a Throw Messy sofa = messy house in people’s minds Quick karate-chop the pillows (design trick: makes them look plumped) Smooth cushions and throws — or just throw a blanket over a problem spot Adds a “styled on purpose” look in seconds 5. Do the Dishes Dash Clear sink is visual shorthand for “I keep a clean house” Load dishwasher fast — no sorting, just stash No dishwasher? Dirty dishes into oven (yes, it works — just don’t forget them!) Wipe sink basin — shiny sink distracts from messy counters 6. Vacuum Lines — Even If You Don’t Vacuum the Whole House Guests see the living room rug first — run the vacuum in a grid Visible lines = fresh clean illusion, even if dust bunnies are still hiding If no time for full vacuum, at least hit high-traffic spots (entry + living room) Sound of vacuum running before guests arrive also works psychological magic 7. Corral the Clutter Get luxury linens from our friends at American Blossom Linens and save 20% with code TOP20: https://americanblossomlinens.com Clean, CLEAN with Branch Basics! https://branchbasics.com/ Coupon code HOMEMAKERCHIC Décorate your home with French antiques just in from Paris at Everyday Château https://www.everydaychateau.com/ Want to skill up in the kitchen? Visit cook.theelliotthomestead.com for 5 new recipes and tutorials a month! Follow up on YouTube for FULL Videos: https://www.youtube.com/@homemakerchicpodcast (Please note episodes can run up to a couple weeks late on Youtube. Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/homemakerchicpodcast Support the show on Patreon and get digital downloads of both our cookbooks! https://www.patreon.com/homemakerchicpodcast Our Sponsors: * Check out Happy Mammoth and use my code HOMEMAKERCHIC for a great deal: https://happymammoth.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy