There’s nothing like a clean, cool apartment in the summertime—especially when you live in a shared space. Whether you’re lounging in the AC or coming home after a lakefront adventure, keeping your Chicago coliving apartment tidy makes summer living way more enjoyable.

The best part? At 808 Cleveland, your shared apartment already includes bi-weekly professional cleaning. But between those visits, here are some easy tips to help you stay organized, freshen up your space, and enjoy a stress-free season.

Declutter for That Summer Lightness

Summer is all about keeping things light—clothes, schedules, and yes, your living space. Do a quick room-by-room declutter and ask:

• Have I used this in the last 2 months?
• Have I worn this in the last 6 months (and will I wear it again)? 
• Why do I still have this box from my move-in?

Store winter clothes in bins under your bed, donate extra stuff, and keep surfaces clear. Less clutter = less to clean.

Keep Your Room Smelling Fresh

You don’t need candles to keep your space smelling amazing. Try:

• Essential oil diffusers with fresh summer blends like eucalyptus + citrus
• DIY simmer pots on the stove (citrus slices + herbs like mint)
• Activated charcoal bags in closets or shoes
• Open windows on breezy days for a natural air refresh

These small tricks keep your room feeling spa-like—even in the heat of August.

Maximize the Bi-Weekly Cleaning Service

Did you know shared spaces like the kitchen, living room, and bathrooms are cleaned every two weeks? Make the most of it by:

• Doing a quick pick-up the night before (so surfaces are clear to be cleaned)
• Dusting in between visits to prevent buildup
• Keeping personal items organized in drawers or baskets

You’ll love coming home to a refreshed common space—and your roommates will too.

Set a 10-Minute Daily Reset Routine

You don’t have to deep clean every day—just a quick reset can go a long way. Try this 10-minute nightly routine:

• Put laundry in the hamper
• Wash any dishes or put them away in the dishwasher
• Wipe down your desk and dresser
• Toss out trash or recycling
• Do a 30-second floor check (did you track in grass again?)

In a shared apartment, little habits make a big difference.

Organize with Style 

Storage can be cute and functional. Summer is a great time to level-up your organizational game:

• Use clear bins in the fridge for easy roommate food separation
• Add stackable drawers to your closet
• Store toiletries in a shower caddy or labeled containers
• Hang a command hook rack for keys, masks, or sunglasses

These small additions help make shared living spaces feel more personal and less chaotic.

Living in a Chicago coliving space like 808 Cleveland means you’re already ahead of the game—hello, bi-weekly cleaning service! But with a few quick habits, you can keep your space feeling clean, organized, and summer-ready 24/7.

Looking for more tips or want to see what summer looks like at 808 Cleveland? Schedule a tour or follow us on social to see why we’re a top choice for coliving in Chicago.