Easy 5-minute tasks you can do anytime

Do a few of these things throughout the day and before you know it, you’ll reach the bottom of your ‘to do’ list!

May 22, 2025

Wipe down your kitchen benchtops

Give them a quick spray with your favourite cleaner, grab a cloth and wipe – it’ll make the whole space feel cleaner, instantly.

Toss expired food from the fridge

Have a super-fast fridge detox! Say goodbye to those containers that have been lurking there for far too long.

Empty the rubbish bin

It’s one of those little things that makes a big difference.

Water your indoor plants

Your leafy friends will thank you.

Fluff the sofa cushions and fold any throw blankets

You’ll have cosy and calming space, instantly.

Clean the bathroom mirror

Swipe away those toothpaste speckles and fingerprints for a fresh shine.

Save time cleaning your bathroom

Sort the mail

Recycle the junk, open the bills, and maybe even file something (if you’re feeling super motivated!).

Sweep the front porch or entryway

Leaves and dust disappear, and it creates a warm and welcoming space right at the door.

Wipe down light switches and door handles

A quick wipe down with a cloth and disinfectant and these high touch areas become clean and healthier.

Change the towels

Swap over your bath and hand towels for fresh and fluffy clean ones.

Clean out one kitchen drawer or utensil holder

Say bye‑bye crumbs, junk, random elastic bands and twist ties. Five minutes of sorting can make a big difference.

Clear one surface

Coffee table, kitchen bench, bathroom vanity – choose just one! It’s surprisingly satisfying.

Dust a shelf or two

Especially if it’s ones that you always forget (maybe they’re high up, ‘out of sight, out of mind’).

Empty the dishwasher - or load it

Sparkling clean dishes or dirty dishes – whichever pile is staring at you.

Throw in a load of laundry

Set the timer so it finishes when someone will be at home to take it out of the washing machine. If it sits there too long while damp, it can get smelly.

Clean out your handbag or backpack

Receipts, crumbs, wrappers and what else may be lurking in there – gone!

Wipe down the microwave (inside and out)

No more crusty spaghetti splatters!

Tidy your bedside table

Clear the clutter, stack your books nicely, maybe even give it a quick dust.

Shake out your doormat

A couple of shakes outside and it’s fresh again.

Clean your phone screen

It’s probably way dirtier than you think – use an antibacterial wipe or grab a cloth and give it a clean.

Vacuum just one rug or mat

Hallway runner, rug or bathroom mat (if it’s dry!) – super quick and instantly cleaner.

Set a five-minute timer and do a speed tidy

Pick up as much as you can before the alarm goes off! Or get the kids to do it and turn it into a game!

Clean your TV remote

Give it a quick wipe with a cloth or antibacterial wipe – easy and often overlooked.

Gather expired medicine or vitamins

Then take them to your local pharmacy for disposal when you’re next out and about.

Straighten up your books or DVDs

Stack them neatly and give the shelf a light dusting while you’re there.

Throw a bag in the car for donations

Grab a few clothes or items you’ve been meaning to donate and get them out of the house.

Rotate the laundry in the machine

From washer to dryer or just hang it up – keep the flow going.

Refresh your pet’s food or water bowl

A clean bowl and fresh water = happy furry friend.

Clean your computer keyboard

A few taps upside down, a wipe between the keys (or make some cleaning slime) – satisfyingly gross!

Give the toilet a quick scrub

A squirt of toilet cleaner, a swish with the loo brush and flush. It doesn’t need to be deep‑clean level, it’s just a bit of a freshen up.

Fold a small pile of laundry

Even if you don’t finish it all, just make a start.

Spray and wipe a bathroom counter

It’s like a little refresh button for the whole room.

Change your pillowcase

This can feel amazing and only takes a couple of minutes.

Check the washing machine filter

It’s usually quick to open and clear – just a bit ick, but worth it.

Refill the ice tray

If the kids have used most of the ice in the tray but not filled it up – future you will thank you on a hot day.

Clean your shower caddy or shelf

Give the bottles a rinse and wipe off any soap scum or gunk.

Clean under one piece of furniture

Sofa, bed, table – just pick one.

Clear out the junk in your car

Grab a bag and collect any cups, wrappers, or rogue items.

Straighten or dust your artwork and wall frames

Tiny task, surprisingly effective.

Clean your hairbrush

Pull out the hair, give it a rinse and leave it to air dry – so much nicer to use.

Clean around your taps

A quick scrub and the shine is back.

Check your fire alarm or change the battery

Tiny task, big safety impact.

Wipe your cupboard or pantry handles

They get grimy fast – quick swipe and you’re done.

More time-saving cleaning tips

15-minute decluttering tasks

30-minutes to a clean home

Quick and easy 10-minute tasks

Easy jobs to complete in a commercial break

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