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Speed Cleaning
119 Page Paperback called SPEED CLEANING by Jeff Campbell and The Clean Team - The people who clean San Francisco homes 10,000 times a year. Clean your Home in half the time or less! Cleaning for people who have much better things to do.
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First published March 1, 1987
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
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July 12, 2008I just finished reading this. It's a great concept for cleaning the house quickly, yet quite thoroughly. I would like to figure out how to combine this approach to the schedule I already have. BTW, I don't plan on using the cleaners he recommends in the book, I'll continue using my safe, tried and true, vinegar, baking soda, and when needed, Borax.
July 22, 2008
I enjoyed the take on how to clean things but I just am not sure it is possible to clean an entire house in 42 minutes. It is a great concept for cleaning the house quickly, but quite thoroughly. The methods make sense. Pick up this book if you want instructions as to how to quickly do a basic weekly cleaning of your home. He teaches how to clean well and how to clean as efficiently as possible (just not sure I agree they are totally efficient).
Things I didn't like about the book: I didn't like that he pushed his products and certain cleaners so much. He even said that the vinegar/baking soda -- natural type cleaners don't work as well and I really don't agree with that. I didn't like that he sometimes just said do things his way because he said so -- and didn't give reason why it was more efficient/better. I didn't like that he said don't clean things that you can't see. Just because I can't see it doesn't mean I shouldn't clean it. Dust, bacteria, germs can still build up on areas you don't see.
I think if you don't feel you clean well, don't have time to clean or just need a new way to clean pick up the book. It is worth the read. I don't think the methods need to be followed strictly -- take what help out and ignore the rest.
Things I didn't like about the book: I didn't like that he pushed his products and certain cleaners so much. He even said that the vinegar/baking soda -- natural type cleaners don't work as well and I really don't agree with that. I didn't like that he sometimes just said do things his way because he said so -- and didn't give reason why it was more efficient/better. I didn't like that he said don't clean things that you can't see. Just because I can't see it doesn't mean I shouldn't clean it. Dust, bacteria, germs can still build up on areas you don't see.
I think if you don't feel you clean well, don't have time to clean or just need a new way to clean pick up the book. It is worth the read. I don't think the methods need to be followed strictly -- take what help out and ignore the rest.
May 16, 2010
Cleaning Boot Camp. Seriously, this guy is like "This is how you clean. I have perfected this system. Do exactly what I say. Do not deviate." And he probably has a right to say that, too. Very sparse, clipped writing complements the subject matter. Very detailed and exact in how to clean each room of the house, down to which hand to use with which tool to do which job in which order. Loved how cut and dry it was. I haven't completely implemented it, but I'm a believer.
December 31, 2024
I'm not sure if this information would help me or not. To be honest it is a boring read. The introduction mentions that the author had experience working with cleaning services so at times it feels like a training manual. I chose to read this book because it was a companion book to a decluttering book and I think this book was written first so first published first read is my motto.
July 16, 2009
Recently I have felt depressed with the level of cleanliness in my home. I asked a group of friends for advice. One friend told me the philosophy of this book and then lent me the book. My friend grew up with this method, swears by it, but also controls the ideas (rather than being controlled by them).
The author claims that a well-used bathroom can be cleaned in 15 minutes. After a month of trying I've cut my cleaning time in half and am almost to that point. I have changed my method of cleaning and feel more success with the outcome. This does not mean that my house is yet perfect. To truly utilize the ideas I feel that you have to start with a deep cleaned house and that will take awhile. But at least when I look at the dirt in all the corners I think, I'll get to that...
The author claims that a well-used bathroom can be cleaned in 15 minutes. After a month of trying I've cut my cleaning time in half and am almost to that point. I have changed my method of cleaning and feel more success with the outcome. This does not mean that my house is yet perfect. To truly utilize the ideas I feel that you have to start with a deep cleaned house and that will take awhile. But at least when I look at the dirt in all the corners I think, I'll get to that...
May 2, 2010
This is one of the most useful purchases I've ever made. Although I don't think it's really saved me much time--I guess I'm not capable of doing it that efficiently--or maybe I just leave things to long for a speedy maintenance swipe. For instance, it swears you will be out of the bathroom in 15 minutes--it still took me over an hour. But by God, that bathroom sparkled! And it was really useful in giving me those in and outs on for instance... well, how to clean the toilet... I really found their explanation of tools and techniques useful.
February 22, 2018
my paperback - read October 1994
October 12, 2023
Evidently (and apparently), I suck at cleaning. However, these guys have it down to a science, and walk you through the most time and energy-efficient way to clean the house. I'm more motivated than ever to clean (which isn't saying a ton), because now I'm confident that I can get it over with faster than ever before.
January 23, 2018
Cleaning out some old things on my to-read shelf... books it appears I'm never going to get to. I remember starting this book but realizing I wasn't in a place where it could help me. The paragraph below is what I wrote many years ago, when there was still hope of a regular speed cleaning session at home. :) The same author wrote Clutter Control, that book was a great benefit to me years ago, so I can only imagine that if you've conquered your clutter monster (guess I haven't), this book could be a useful follow up.
I'm a little dismayed because starting out I just read the words, "we're not going to tell you how to put dirty clothes in the hamper or the children's toys away..." SOOOO... this book is about a thorough cleaning-intense session once the house is de-cluttered. (When? exactly would that be?) Still. I'm confident I'll find some hope here. The book has two hopeful statements on the cover: "revised and updated for the 1990's" -- woo! they'll be speaking my language -- and "cleaning for people who have much better things to do."
I'm a little dismayed because starting out I just read the words, "we're not going to tell you how to put dirty clothes in the hamper or the children's toys away..." SOOOO... this book is about a thorough cleaning-intense session once the house is de-cluttered. (When? exactly would that be?) Still. I'm confident I'll find some hope here. The book has two hopeful statements on the cover: "revised and updated for the 1990's" -- woo! they'll be speaking my language -- and "cleaning for people who have much better things to do."
May 17, 2020
This is crazy. This book is all about SPEED cleaning yet goes into excruciating detail on all aspects of cleaning your house. I cannot believe there are so many people who took the time to read and absorb this. In the time it would take you to read the over 400 PAGES of speed cleaning tips, you could have cleaned your place 50 times. Ugh.
January 12, 2008
The main reason I liked this book was that it taught me a few new ways to clean. It helped me realize that a well-kept home was not something that comes naturally, it is something you have to learn from someone.
September 16, 2023
There's some really good advice for streamlining cleaning, which I'm all in for. I've been doing one aspect a day during the week, but this intrigued me to try doing it all in one day, to see what would happen. The book starts off with a list of rules, in order to make the cleaning process as efficient and effective as possible, and then moves on to exposing how specific areas of the house would be cleaned, what materials and tools you would use and in what order you would do it all.
What I didn't like:
It is old and there are many new products, and materials used for household furniture on the market now. There is the assumption, of course, that your house will be tidy enough to get to ask things needing cleaning, and I felt the claim of cleaning a whole house in 42 minutes was probably the result of a very small one that was already quite clean (no kids, no pets, no messy husband, no tools of hobbies about the house!). One of the rules is that if something isn't dirty, don't clean it - best in principle, but there are a multitude of ways something can be dirty (and sometimes unsafe) and not look it.
I wasn't keen on the Red and Blue juice for the all purpose cleaner and glass cleaner. As a British reader, it left me pondering my versions of what that might be. It was clear the author was selling their products by not fully explaining what it was or what other options were available, so even for Americans I imagine this might be annoying.
What I did like:
The writing style was sassy and to the point. No mucking about and no pussy footing around for anyone. There were several times I learned something new and that a possible tool would make my job so much easier. I did like the idea of the apron, having everything to hand and being systematic and ruthless.
I thought the chapters at the end for good to manage teams of cleaners (2 or 3) was not only useful for professional cleaners, but also families with older children.
Some good take aways make this still a good book to use your time up on, because I think you'll gain it back and more as your cleaning gets smarter.
What I didn't like:
It is old and there are many new products, and materials used for household furniture on the market now. There is the assumption, of course, that your house will be tidy enough to get to ask things needing cleaning, and I felt the claim of cleaning a whole house in 42 minutes was probably the result of a very small one that was already quite clean (no kids, no pets, no messy husband, no tools of hobbies about the house!). One of the rules is that if something isn't dirty, don't clean it - best in principle, but there are a multitude of ways something can be dirty (and sometimes unsafe) and not look it.
I wasn't keen on the Red and Blue juice for the all purpose cleaner and glass cleaner. As a British reader, it left me pondering my versions of what that might be. It was clear the author was selling their products by not fully explaining what it was or what other options were available, so even for Americans I imagine this might be annoying.
What I did like:
The writing style was sassy and to the point. No mucking about and no pussy footing around for anyone. There were several times I learned something new and that a possible tool would make my job so much easier. I did like the idea of the apron, having everything to hand and being systematic and ruthless.
I thought the chapters at the end for good to manage teams of cleaners (2 or 3) was not only useful for professional cleaners, but also families with older children.
Some good take aways make this still a good book to use your time up on, because I think you'll gain it back and more as your cleaning gets smarter.
June 3, 2018
My copy of the book has a publication date of 1987. I need to buy a more recent edition as this version appears dated. This version references cleaning an oven, defrosting a refrigerator, and using just two types of liquid cleansers (red and blue). Today we have self-cleaning ovens, self-defrosting refrigerators, and various surfaces in the home that may not be suited to some cleansers. Not to mention environmental concerns with some cleansers. Whether it’s because the book is dated or because they are based in San Francisco where housing is at a premium, the areas they clean appear to be much smaller than the standard-sized house today. I will consider the cleaning processes outlined in the book but am uncertain I can be disciplined enough to follow them.
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June 20, 2025Honestly, this book was a nice surprise. It’s not your typical boring cleaning guide — it gets straight to the point with super practical tips for cleaning fast and efficiently. I loved how it doesn’t waste time on theory; it tells you exactly what to do and how to do it, stopwatch and all! I tried it at home and finished the bathroom way quicker than I expected. Super helpful if you don’t have much time but still want everything looking spotless. Totally recommend it if you like staying on top of the mess without spending hours cleaning.
November 9, 2016
This book will help you think about cleaning your house in a whole new way. I don't feel that I'm able to implement the recommendations right now (I have a two-year-old who wants to "help,") but I may revisit this book sometime in the future.
August 1, 2024
Great book! A little dated but certainly effective. I cannot wait to test out the kitchen and bathroom systems - but first I need to clear some counters! I've already picked up a few ideas that have sped up my daily cleaning routines.
November 17, 2025
Very dated. Yes, they make a good point about tools to use, organizing everything first, economy of steps and motion so you are not backtracking but still, very dated and no concern about using toxic cleaners, definitely written before 'green' cleeaning was a thing.
May 12, 2018
I dont use the full program at once, but I find it is helpful when I am doing a room at a time.
January 30, 2020
There was nothing really new or exciting as far as actual cleaning, but the planning for a team of three to clean was really helpful since I insist my teens help with cleaning.
August 24, 2022
Great resource for weekly cleaning routine. Probably won’t use his recommended cleaners though.
April 24, 2025
I thought this would help me at home and it might, but very much designed for professional cleaners. Much just not relevant to me, but some is. Mostly, work smarter not harder.
December 30, 2020
Honestly, this book SPOKE TO ME. I look forward to cleaning (and timing myself) now. Also the "if this tool isn't working, switch tools" shouldn't be so profound BUT IT IS.
September 18, 2014
Jeff Campbell's Speed Cleaning will be especially useful to people like me who love a clean and uncluttered house but hate to clean. We hate to clean because we don't know how. Our parents assigned us to clean the house as a weekly chore, assuming that knowing how was in our genes. Because we don't like doing things that we aren't good or successful at doing and we feel helpless and frustrated when faced with cleaning and doing things that don't work. (Like cleaning polyurethane-treated hardwood floors with Murphy's Oil Soap--something I did for years.)
Jeff Campbell to the rescue. Campbell is a professional cleaner and efficiency expert, the cleaning genius behind San Francisco's "Clean Team." I first discovered "Speed Cleaning" as a temporarily single mom while my husband was away doing fieldwork. I had to clean during baby naps--and fast. I picked it up again years later because we discontinued our cleaning service due to salary cuts at my workplace. We were also not especially happy with the cleaning service, including some breakage of our Mexican wood carving collection and ignoring places like under the bed and sofas.
The new edition of "Speed Cleaning" incorporates new products and introduces the products available through the Clean Team's online catalog. I haven't invested in any of the stuff yet, but might. Some readers object to this advertising aspect of the book, but it seems to me that the prices of the products are very competitive, plus the thoroughly vetted products allow you to skip a lot of random product shopping and trial and error. If you don't want to order The Clean Team's products, Campbell is very forthcoming with naming the best commercial equivalents. I know for sure that I will be purchasing one or more of their ostrich feather dusters to deal with our Mexican wood carvings. The apron that enables the cleaners to tote products with him or her rather than leaving them misplaced all over the house and then having to track them down also seems ingenious. The Sh-mop with washable covers for hardwood floors and professional dustpans also look like excellent tools.
I especially like the cleaning approach that specifies making one's way around a room clockwise and top to bottom rather than taking haphazard stabs at things. The method for cleaning toilets is worth the price of the book. It is brilliant and makes it almost fun. Really. The advice never to let the powdered cleanser (e.g. Comet) get on the sink above the bowl is also priceless. And the crappy pans under your stove's burners? Don't knock yourself out cleaning them--you can buy new ones at the hardware store,
I would have given the book 5 stars except that about half of it is inexplicably devoted to choosing and supervising a cleaning service. I'm not sure why a book about how to clean includes this.
Jeff Campbell to the rescue. Campbell is a professional cleaner and efficiency expert, the cleaning genius behind San Francisco's "Clean Team." I first discovered "Speed Cleaning" as a temporarily single mom while my husband was away doing fieldwork. I had to clean during baby naps--and fast. I picked it up again years later because we discontinued our cleaning service due to salary cuts at my workplace. We were also not especially happy with the cleaning service, including some breakage of our Mexican wood carving collection and ignoring places like under the bed and sofas.
The new edition of "Speed Cleaning" incorporates new products and introduces the products available through the Clean Team's online catalog. I haven't invested in any of the stuff yet, but might. Some readers object to this advertising aspect of the book, but it seems to me that the prices of the products are very competitive, plus the thoroughly vetted products allow you to skip a lot of random product shopping and trial and error. If you don't want to order The Clean Team's products, Campbell is very forthcoming with naming the best commercial equivalents. I know for sure that I will be purchasing one or more of their ostrich feather dusters to deal with our Mexican wood carvings. The apron that enables the cleaners to tote products with him or her rather than leaving them misplaced all over the house and then having to track them down also seems ingenious. The Sh-mop with washable covers for hardwood floors and professional dustpans also look like excellent tools.
I especially like the cleaning approach that specifies making one's way around a room clockwise and top to bottom rather than taking haphazard stabs at things. The method for cleaning toilets is worth the price of the book. It is brilliant and makes it almost fun. Really. The advice never to let the powdered cleanser (e.g. Comet) get on the sink above the bowl is also priceless. And the crappy pans under your stove's burners? Don't knock yourself out cleaning them--you can buy new ones at the hardware store,
I would have given the book 5 stars except that about half of it is inexplicably devoted to choosing and supervising a cleaning service. I'm not sure why a book about how to clean includes this.
September 28, 2010
So... I've only cleaned one room (bathroom) following his advise as closely as possible and I can't honestly say that I did it any faster 25-30 minutes). But as with anything worth doing, I expected a learning curve. At least it didn't take me any longer! In all, this book is exactly what I have been looking for: a complete step by step outline of cleaning to take all the guess work and trial and error out of the equation and written by the owner of a successful cleaning business. I have read 4 or more cleaning books and this one comes closest to what I needed. It's not tips or advise; just someone to literally tell me the most economical way to get it over with. Like a reviewer before me, I prefer to make my own chemical cocktails out of natural environmentally friendly ingredients which I'm sure cuts into my time somewhat but as long as I keep my supplies well stocked I don't foresee a problem with doing this and using Campbell's method. I hope that with continued use of his methods I will simplify my life by saving time, and sanity. So an optimistic 5 stars but will change if it doesn't work out!
September 27, 2015
finally made time to read this. LOVE it. Surprisingly, it's kind of funny too :) My favorite part:
"You have cleaned an oven! Amazing how good it feels- and you get all the credit! you may be tempted to go outside and stop strangers to bring them in and show them your clean oven. Resist: they may track in dirt."
I am so getting 3 different toothbrushes though... using the same toothbrush in the bathroom and kitchen and dusting is gross. that would be easy to color-code also.
my mom used to use old cloth diapers as rags. i thought it was weird, but they say it's good here! I wonder what they would say about microfiber clothes, since they hadn't been invented when this book was written.
It is obviously old, but the overall idea of one pass and the apron is awesome. I swear by my roomba + dyson stick vacuum to replace a regular vacuum: vacuuming has never been so quick before.
I want to read their other books too.
"You have cleaned an oven! Amazing how good it feels- and you get all the credit! you may be tempted to go outside and stop strangers to bring them in and show them your clean oven. Resist: they may track in dirt."
I am so getting 3 different toothbrushes though... using the same toothbrush in the bathroom and kitchen and dusting is gross. that would be easy to color-code also.
my mom used to use old cloth diapers as rags. i thought it was weird, but they say it's good here! I wonder what they would say about microfiber clothes, since they hadn't been invented when this book was written.
It is obviously old, but the overall idea of one pass and the apron is awesome. I swear by my roomba + dyson stick vacuum to replace a regular vacuum: vacuuming has never been so quick before.
I want to read their other books too.
October 18, 2009
I looked through part of this book and learned a few things, but I didn't try to read the whole thing. I have been conscious of motion efficiency since I read the book "Cheaper by the Dozen" in junior high, so that idea with cleaning was nothing new to me. And two things bothered me: 1) The tone felt condescending enough to almost offend me at times, and 2) It wasn't written for a mom with children at home. In order to follow this method completely (and thus clean my whole house in 45 minutes), I would have to take my children to someone else's house and find a cleaning partner to help me (my husband is rarely home to help these days)--every week. As that is not going to happen, I doubt I will ever be able to use the method myself. However, I did learn about a mop that is now on my wish list... :)
November 1, 2016
I loved it! I had no idea how to approach cleaning in a strategic way so I just picked up here and there when I had a chance. I lived happily among the dust-bunnies... until my kid arrived. Then the dust bunnies, crumbs, and disarray just took over. I liked having someone else figure out the most efficient ways to do household chores which I would usually avoid for the time-suck they create. The first time around it took forever, but the second time was really fast! I only wish they'd have tips on how to quickly fold clothes or get rid of stains. The book focuses mainly on kitchen and bathroom... the rest is in other books they sell. Oh, and their website still exists even though this book is from 1990-something.
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January 19, 2011Ok, I don't want to give stars b/c I haven't read every part of the book because, I don't have a house. I think this would be really useful if 1) I had a house and 2) I wanted it REALLY clean. I think his method would work for cleanliness, although I'm not sure it could be done in the amount of time he says. Will make for a cleaner house quicker than how long it takes you now though.
January 17, 2013
More like 3 1/2, but I rounded up. This book has really good info about ways to be incredibly efficient while cleaning. I had their previous book, but it was much smaller. I saw this version for a buck at the library used book store. It's a great reference. It won't change the world, though, and it's dry. Reading about cleaning toilets is not page-turning.
February 16, 2008
I love these books. I had forgotten about them since our move to California over four years ago. I dislike cleaning and these books just really make it so much easier, more efficient and so much faster. Gives you more time to do the things you LOVE:)
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