Hey there, busy moms! First off, hats off to you. Whether you’re juggling work, homeschooling, volunteering, or navigating single parenthood (or all of the above!), you’re already doing the work of several people. So, when it comes to keeping your home clean and organized, cut yourself some slack. You’re doing great, and I’m here to share a few tips to make housekeeping a bit easier for you.
SET A HOUSEKEEPING SCHEDULE
Let’s talk schedules. Who else gets a little thrill from ticking tasks off a to-do list? I’ve found that breaking down house cleaning into a manageable schedule can really help. My approach involves focusing on different parts of the house over a 3-week cycle. Week one might be the kitchen and bathrooms, week two could be dusting and vacuuming the living areas, and week three might focus on other spaces like the basement. This way, you’re not overwhelmed, and your house stays clean. Incorporate daily or weekly tasks for high-traffic areas, and remember, a quick wipe-down is often all you need. Also, spreading laundry out over the week can prevent it from piling up.
Now, those deep-cleaning tasks? They can wait for a long weekend or a scheduled staycation. Giving yourself a break, not trying to tackle everything at once can make a big difference in your stress levels.
Check out our Make the Simple Home- Housekeeping Checklist digital download. This is what I use to make sure I get all the areas tackled!
INVEST IN GOOD PRODUCTS
Investing in quality cleaning products can be a game-changer. Essentials like Windex (yes, it’s a miracle worker), white vinegar, dish soap, and laundry detergent make cleaning easier. And for those living in humid areas, a bit of bleach can help keep mold at bay, though use it sparingly if you have a septic system. For pet owners and families with small children, consider a Roomba to help keep pet hair under control.
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We’ve also put together a list our Cleaning Must Haves.
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HOUSEKEEPING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!
Remember, housekeeping isn’t a solo sport. Get the whole family involved! Depending on their age, your kids can help with various tasks, and it’s a great way to teach them responsibility and how to manage their future homes. Set clear expectations, but don’t sweat the small stuff if things aren’t perfect. It’s all part of the learning process.
Consider giving your kids a small commission for each chore that contributes to the household as a whole (not necessarily cleaning their own room). When they were young, I gave my kids cash for certain chores to help teach them about money. When they wanted a treat at Walmart, I could tell them to use their own money. I was also able to teach them tithing and saving.
HIRE HELP
If your budget allows, hiring a local housekeeper can provide a much-needed break and support your community. But it’s not feasible for everyone, and that’s okay. Finding someone you can call for occasional help can be a sanity saver.
When I lived in Georgia, I had a mom of 4 who was going through a divorce at the time that started her own cleaning business so I used her. I have a lady here in Alabama that cleans as a side business. I would HIGHLY suggest using someone local for many reasons, including because they are in your community. References are more readily available and you’re supporting a local, small business owner which I also talk about in my Tips to Shop Local blog.
REMEMBER TO ENJOY YOUR HOME AND MAKE THE SIMPLE LIFE
Most importantly, remember to enjoy your home. It’s meant to be lived in, not to be a constant source of stress. Taking time to rest and recharge with your family is crucial.
I try to remind myself that if we take one day a week to rest, spend time with our family and worship God we have the energy to do everything we need to do the other 6 days of the week.
TO SUM IT ALL UP:
Set a Housekeeping Schedule:
- Create a cleaning schedule for different areas of the house on a rotation basis.
- Include daily and weekly tasks to keep up with regular cleaning.
- Save big projects for long weekends or staycations.
Invest in Good Products:
- Choose versatile and effective cleaning products.
- Staples like white vinegar, dish soap, and laundry detergent are handy.
- Consider products like a Roomba for pet owners.
Housekeeping for the Whole Family:
- Involve your children and spouse in household chores.
- Teach your kids how to clean and give them responsibilities.
- Resist the urge to redo tasks done differently by your family members.
Hire Help:
- If possible, consider hiring a housekeeper for occasional assistance.
- Support local small businesses when hiring cleaning services.
Remember to Enjoy Your Home and Simplify Life:
- Prioritize rest, family time, and self-care to maintain balance.
- Take time to appreciate your clean and organized home and enjoy the simple things in life.
Relax and savor the cleanliness of your home!
Stacia