Cleaning is one of those things we have to get done in life whether we like it or not. And, an unclean house stresses me out more than a deadline at work. Since I'm a journalist I think a deadline is generally helpful in other aspects of life as well, which is how I've become a master speed cleaner.

1. Set a timer.
I make a list of what I think NEEDS to be done and then set the kitchen timer for as much time as I have or want to spend cleaning. Then, I race the clock. As an adult we really don't get a chance to play many games, so we might as well make our chores a contest.

2. Look at the big picture.
Sometimes you just don't have enough time to edge the carpets and deep clean the bathroom. That's OK, just find the most important things and get those done first. When you have more time then you can plan on doing the bigger projects. Which leads me to my next tip:

3. Make a chore chart...
for yourself. Maybe you had one as a child or in a certain job you might have had. Well they work wonders for busy adults, as well. Make a list of things you want to get done daily and follow it. You should probably keep the list short and prioritized and maybe a task or two for each room of the house, that way things don't get overwhelming in one area of the house because you've only been focusing daily tasks in the kitchen and no where else.

4. BASKETS
Laundry baskets are my secret weapon when I'm speed cleaning. Use baskets to throw clutter in from around the house then as you make your way around replace the items from the basket back to their rightful homes. In the time it took you to just walk once through your house, you will have gotten all clutter cleared and put back in or near the place it belongs.

5. Pretend guest are about to show up
If all else fails, and your anything like me, the most cleaning gets done right before a guest is about to show up. So, either pretend as if you have a friend coming over to get yourself motivated or actually invite a friend over to motivate you to speed clean. That wouldn't be stressful at all, would it?

Most importantly, don't let cleaning be a source of stress. I dropped that like a bad habit and found that cleaning is a good way to relieve stress if you let it. Turn on some music and make it enjoyable.

What do you do when you need to clean the house - and fast? Any tips for me?