It's practically October and the "holiday season" is in plain view. (Yipee!) Besides greedily thinking about what I'd love to get for gifts, entertaining is on my mind. I love throwing a fun get together, but I'll be the first to admit that cleaning is not my strong suit. It's just seriously not an interest of mine. That was hard to write with a straight face, by the way. Messes give me a headache and I totally hate dishes. There, I said it. Too bad eating without utensils isn't socially acceptable. I'd be game for that.
6 Dinner Party Tips for Easy Clean Up
Serve appetizers that can be eaten on a cocktail napkin. Drastic? Maybe, but we need to think about the aftermath here people. If you're serious about keeping your mess to a minimum, we have to get all boot camp with this thing. Cheese and crackers, pre made veggies in portable plastic dip cups, things you can stab with a toothpick. Let's do this.
Tag It. Personalize things like cups and straws. Not only does it make for simple and cute decor, but the goal is to reduce the chances of people grabbing more. Pet Peeve: Having to clean 3-4 cups per person. If you tag their stuff, they'll hang on to it throughout the party.
Keep decor simple. Let's face it, everyone already knows they are at a party. You don't need to go overboard. The less you decorate, the less you'll have to clean up. Totally practical. Think candles and a lovely centerpiece. The cute tags you create (see above) will also play up the decor.
Line it. Garbage bag, parchment paper, plastic or foil, tablecloths. From baking with parchment paper to using a tablecloth, lining surfaces that will get messy during your party will reduce cleanup time drastically. Do it!
Clean as you go. I'm not a fan of getting distracted when I have company but making drop offs to the kitchen will help. If you have a dishwasher, stick washables right in throughout the party. If you are in the market for a new dishwasher, check this out. The ElectroluxStainless Steel Dishwasher with IQ-Touch™ Controls (EI24ID50QS) could be a life saver when it comes to getting the job done fast. It boasts a professional level clean in only 30 minutes. That means no staying up waiting for the dishes. It also has Luxury Soft Grip Racks to hold your dirties in place to prevent flipping for a better clean. Just look at how many dirty dishes can fit into that thing. Total wishlist item right here.
Designate. Most likely you aren't the only host in the house. Dole out clean up responsibilities to your family members. Make sure to do this before the party starts so everyone can jump right on their tasks when guests leave.
Ah. Good clean fun. Just the way it should be! 
I wish I could invite this beauty TO my dinner party! Visit ElectroluxAppliances.com to find out more information about the ElectroluxStainless Steel Dishwasher with IQ-Touch™ Controls (EI24ID50QS). Become a fan of Electrolux on Facebook to stay in the loop.
The new Electrolux dishwasher provides a professional level clean with its 30-minute wash and dry cycle. As the highest rated dishwasher on Reviewed.com (http://dishwashers.reviewed.com/content/electrolux-ei24id50qs-dishwasher-review ), it also features SatelliteSpray Arm technology which provides 400% more water coverage than a traditional dishwasher. Visit ElectroluxAppliances.com for more information on this and other stylish and functional options available from Electrolux.
Compensation was provided by Electrolux via Mode Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Electrolux.
What are your favorite time saving clean up tips? Am I the only one who hates cleaning?
Anne
Sunday 5th of October 2014
Cleaning is not my thing either. My teens used to do most of the cleaning for me, but 2 of them are away at college now, and I have started to have to clean again.
Linette
Sunday 5th of October 2014
I hate cleaning, but I do enjoy entertaining. Thanks for the tips, I'm always looking for shortcuts.
Michele
Saturday 4th of October 2014
Cleaning, I avoid it at all costs...but alas, someone has to do it! These are all fun tips, that I will definitely be putting in to practice this holiday season. I'd rather eat, socialize and forget the mess!
Michelle @ A Dish of Daily Life
Thursday 2nd of October 2014
These are all great tips! We do most of our entertaining in the summer time by the pool. I hate clean up so any short cut ideas are definitely welcome!
eliz frank
Tuesday 30th of September 2014
During holiday season, we use the finer things and clean up can be a pain. Other times, I reach for throw away items; paper goods that make life easier. Good tips!