Get Started With These Steps
- Plan some schedules or routines that suit your lifestyle.
- Think about what needs to be improved around the home. What can you do to avoid panic cleaning or monthly major-cleaning jobs.
- Once you set a rough plan, start with ONE BIG CLEANUP.
- Declutter and sort out your space so that you get an idea of how much time it actually takes to do a task. For example, it might only take 1-2 minutes a day to wipe down the kitchen counter top if you remove all clutter from it.
Tips To Set Routines
It all comes down to routines.
They can be a daily, weekly, monthly or a seasonal routine. Set a routine that is easy to follow and that makes cleaning time faster.
Start small. Choose to start with the daily dumping of laundry into the hamper or a weekly wash for sheets. You can never go wrong with routine and schedules.
Daily Cleaning Routine
Make a list of the tasks you can do daily and put this list somewhere visible, until you get the routine set.
Here are some tasks that you can do daily without denting too much of your valuable time.
- Instead of throwing your jacket on the couch, hang it up straight away.
- After cleaning your teeth, wipe over the bathroom sink to avoid build ups.
- Stack the dishwasher as you use things. Keep the drawers open while you’re working in the kitchen to prompt you to stack them straight away instead of dropping them in the sink or leaving them in a pile next to the sink.
- Put a load of washing on as soon as you get up. Or just as you’re going to bed. Whichever part of the day suits. For some people, laundry may not be a daily task, so adjust accordingly.
Weekly Cleaning Routine
Weekly tasks that can have a positive domino effect and reduced work build-up include the following.
- Vacuum the visible floor and dust furniture. If you have time, wet-mop the floors that are frequently used.
- Clean the shower, bath and toilet.
- Clean your bathroom and hallway mirrors.
- Clean and disinfect the stove, the fridge and the sink.
- Take out the trash.
- Wash the linens and kitchen cloths.
- Sweep your porch and do some garden maintenance.
Weekly schedules should include jobs that are harder to do daily and may require more time. Weekly cleaning routines though can be made lighter if you ask household members to contribute in the process.
Monthly Cleaning Routine
Monthly cleaning tasks may seem too frequent, but keeping control of the following tasks will help you in the long run.
- Deep clean the fridge.
- Dust lighting fixtures and fans.
- Vacuum the floor, moving furniture and targeting areas not visible but that still collect dust. (Behind the bed for example).
- Tidy and sort closets.
Everyone will have different priorities based on their lifestyle and personal habits. What matters most is that the high traffic areas in your house get the most attention during a weekly clean so you don’t have a huge job to do each month.
