The key to keeping a neater and tidier home is discovering how to create a cleaning schedule that works best for you and implementing it. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution because each home has different needs. Several factors must be considered, from the number of rooms to the family size.
The Importance of Keeping a Clean Home
Did you know that clutter has been linked to increased depression and mood disorders? There are many health benefits to keeping a clean home:
- Allergen Relief
- Fewer Germs
- Better Air Quality
- Mental Clarity
- Better Mood
- Reduced Stress
- Better Sleep
1. Identify Cleaning Tasks Room by Room
First and foremost, go room by room in your home and make a physical list of the individual cleaning tasks associated with each chore. Pay attention to details and be specific.
2. Identify Deep Cleaning Chores
While you’re walking through your home, creating your cleaning responsibilities, keep a separate list to identify any deep cleaning chores each room requires. For example, changing air filters, cleaning the top of the fridge, vacuuming lint traps, etc.
3. Break it Down and Schedule With Time Blocking
Time blocking is a time management method where you divide your day into blocks of time. It’s effective at ensuring you’re successful at following a daily schedule, and cleaning chores should be blocked into your routine.
4. Delegate Duties
If you are living single, you got this! However, if you’re part of a family, it’s not your responsibility to clean up after everyone on top of yourself. Determine which cleaning responsibilities are age-appropriate for each member and delegate chores accordingly.
5. Rotate Responsibilities
It may benefit your family to rotate cleaning responsibilities so that it doesn’t become such a chore. I’m not suggesting that mom relinquish control of how she wants the dishwasher loaded, but some tasks can be swapped out to prevent staleness.
Talk to your family and discuss preferred chores. Maybe you all have different preferences, and there isn’t a need for much rotation. Have the conversation to determine your family’s best chance at successfully following the cleaning schedule.
6. Create an Annual Cleaning Checklist
Create an annual cleaning checklist to ensure important household chores are completed without being overlooked, leading to overwhelm. Examples of yearly cleaning tasks include cleaning carpets, gutters, and garages, and servicing your HVAC.
Another encouraged practice is cleaning closets, cabinets, and drawers and designating excess and clutter as charitable donations.
7. Create a Seasonal Cleaning Checklist
Make a seasonal cleaning responsibilities list for chores that should be done a few times annually. For example, you could clean out your pantry, wash windows, clean behind appliances, wash pillows, etc.
8. Utilize a House Cleaning Binder for Organization
Once you’ve established how to create a cleaning schedule based on your specifics, organize your cleaning checklists with a master cleaning binder system. Laminating them allows you to use dry-erase markers to check things off as you go. Alternatively, family members could initial tasks they’ve completed.
9. Do 10-15 Minute Tidy-Ups Before Bed
Before you go to bed, make it a habit to set a 10-15 minute alarm and do a quick cleanup. Waking up to a tidy home makes for a better start to your morning. A clean kitchen is a welcoming sight when it’s time to make juice, brew coffee, or prep lunches for work and school.
10. Wipe Things Down Daily
Wipe things down as you go. For example, don’t let a good paper towel go to waste. Wipe countertops, appliances, and other surface areas before disposing of them. When you’re in the bathroom, take some tissue and wipe the hairs off the floor daily to keep them from becoming an eyesore and bigger mess.
11. Invest in Satisfying Cleaning Equipment
Don’t shop for the cheapest basics, and do not explore helpful cleaning tools. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but invest a little in cleaning supplies that will make the chores easier and maybe even a little fun.
12. Use Eco-Conscious Cleaners
Use cleaners that you know you can trust regarding your family’s health. Did you know that most household cleaners are toxic, allergen and asthma-inducing, and overall terrible for your health and the environment?
Feel good about protecting your family’s health and being conscious of the environment by choosing eco-friendly cleaning products or by making your own with baking soda and vinegar.
Elizabeth Ervin is the owner of Sober Healing. She is a freelance writer passionate about opioid recovery and has celebrated breaking free since 09-27-2013. She advocates for mental health awareness and encourages others to embrace healing, recovery, and Jesus.