Floor Plan: How to Get (and Keep) Them Clean

If you lug your turbo-charged vacuum or trusty mop-and-bucket combo out of the closet only once a week, you're not alone. According to a recent survey by Bissel, 32 percent of Americans wait at least one week to clean their floors. But thanks to some handy tools and a troubleshooting approach, you can keep yours spotless throughout the week without having to deploy the heavy artillery.

Related: 47 Ways to Maximize Space in Your Kitchen

Start with a Solid Foundation

Vacuum once a week, and do it like you mean it. A good time is on the weekend, when you can spend a half hour or more removing accumulated dirt.

Kick Off Your Shoes

Take a cue from Martha and enforce a no-shoe policy inside your home. Outdoor shoes transfer bacteria like E. coli to floors, according to a study done at the University of Arizona. At the door, set out a basket of slippers or skid-resistant socks to encourage the habit for family members and guests alike.

Related: 19 Tips for Perfect Laundry Every Time

Spot-Treat Daily

Even if you cut down on the bacteria coming into your home, you have to address the mess your family creates. Whether you have a perennial trail of crumbs in the kitchen or muddy footprints in the hallway, identify trouble areas and spend a few minutes daily cleaning them. It's time well spent, considering that bacteria can make your family sick, and even the smallest of crumbs can invite critters and pests.

More from Martha Stewart Living:
10 Ways to Save Energy at Home
Dishwasher Dos and Don'ts
Martha Stewart's Ultimate Organizing Solutions
12 Tools to Use in Your House in Unexpected Ways

Dont stop there head to the kitchen and organize your kitchen drawers.