Wrapping up this Five Cycles Every Household Has series, is what seems to be everyone’s (least) favorite activity: cleaning. Not to worry, here are a few tips to make the process easier – whether it be spring cleaning or just maintenance.
Declutter:
I am not the first to say this but it cannot be stressed enough, less clutter equals less cleaning. The more you have, the more you have to dust, wipe, wash, launder, etc. Too many toys, papers, shoes, clothes, books, etc. strewn across the floor means a bigger barrier to sweeping, mopping, or vacuuming that floor. So what’s the solution? Take on one area or one category of items at a time (your preference) and set up bags or boxes to sort items to keep, donate, recycle, or trash.
Keep Spaces Clear:
Second after decluttering is keeping tables, counters, and other surfaces clear is next in line for making cleaning a breeze. Paring down your possessions will naturally help with this, but having clearly labeled homes for those remaining items is your best defense against clutter finding its way onto your surfaces. Setting a specific time once a day or one day a week to return items to their homes is essential to this as well.
Clean Regularly:
Just like setting a regular time to put items away, it is essential to set a time to clean regularly. How you do this, however, is up to you. Some people prefer to knock it all out in one day and others prefer to chip away at it over time: kitchen one day, bathroom another or surfaces one day, and floors another. If you strongly dislike cleaning, put on some music, an audiobook, or a podcast and plan a rewarding activity afterwards. And don’t hesitate to have the conversation on divvying up tasks with housemates, spouses, and even children (as age appropriate).
If you follow all the steps above and are still stuck – reach out to Real Life Professional Organizing for a phone or video consultation to see how Bethel can help!
