Cleaning doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore. In fact, it can be quite satisfying when done smartly and efficiently. I found myself spending too much time cleaning, which was taking away from other important aspects of my life.
So, I embarked on a journey to simplify my cleaning routine, making it more manageable and less time-consuming. Here are 15 ways I simplified my cleaning routine, which I believe can be of great help to you as well.
1. Start with a Cleaning Schedule
One of the best ways to simplify your cleaning routine is by creating a cleaning schedule. It’s an organized approach that helps in breaking down tasks into manageable bits, making the process less daunting.
Assign specific tasks to specific days. For example, do the laundry on Mondays, clean the bathrooms on Tuesdays, and so on. This ensures that you’re not overwhelmed with a multitude of tasks at once. A schedule is also beneficial in instilling discipline and consistency, which are key in maintaining a clean home.
2. Declutter Regularly
The more things you have, the more things you have to clean. Regular decluttering not only frees up space in your home but also reduces the cleaning workload.
Set aside a time each week to declutter. Go through your belongings and get rid of items you no longer need or use. This could be old magazines, broken appliances, or clothes you haven’t worn in years. By reducing clutter, you’ll find it easier to keep your home clean and organized.
3. Invest in Good Quality Cleaning Tools
Good quality cleaning tools can make a significant difference in your cleaning routine. They are more efficient, reliable, and durable, reducing the amount of time and effort you spend on cleaning.
For instance, a high-quality vacuum cleaner can pick up more dirt and dust in less time compared to a low-quality one. Similarly, a good mop will clean your floors more effectively, eliminating the need for repeated cleaning. Therefore, although good cleaning tools might be more expensive, they’re worth the investment in the long run.
4. Make Cleaning a Family Affair
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a solo task. Involve your entire family in the cleaning process. It’s a great way to get everyone to take responsibility for their mess and lighten your cleaning load.
Assign age-appropriate tasks to your kids. For example, toddlers can pick up their toys while teenagers can do the dishes. This not only simplifies your cleaning routine but also instills a sense of responsibility in your kids from a young age.
5. Use Multitask Cleaners
Instead of having a separate cleaner for every surface in your home, consider using multitask cleaners. These are versatile products that can be used to clean various surfaces, simplifying your cleaning process.
For example, a multipurpose cleaner can be used to clean your kitchen countertops, bathroom tiles, and even floors. This reduces the number of products you need, making cleaning more straightforward and efficient.
6. Clean as You Go
One of the most effective ways to simplify your cleaning routine is by adopting the ‘clean as you go’ approach. This involves cleaning up messes immediately they occur, preventing them from accumulating.
If you spill something, clean it up immediately. If you use dishes, wash them right away. This way, you prevent tasks from piling up, making your cleaning routine more manageable.
7. Use a Timer
A timer can be a great tool to simplify your cleaning routine. It helps you stay focused and prevents you from spending too much time on a single task.
Set a timer for each cleaning task. For example, you could set 20 minutes for dusting, 30 minutes for vacuuming, and so on. This creates a sense of urgency, helping you clean more efficiently and effectively.
8. Create a Cleaning Caddy
A cleaning caddy is a portable storage container that holds all your cleaning supplies. It’s a great way to organize your cleaning products and tools, making them easily accessible.
Instead of wasting time searching for cleaning supplies, you’ll have everything you need in one place. This simplifies your cleaning process, making it faster and more efficient.
9. Do a Little Each Day
Doing a little cleaning each day can greatly simplify your cleaning routine. It prevents tasks from piling up, reducing the amount of time you spend cleaning.
Instead of waiting for the weekend to do all your cleaning, spread it throughout the week. This way, you’ll have more free time during the weekend to relax and enjoy yourself.
10. Use Baskets to Organize
Baskets are a great tool for organizing your home. They can be used to store toys, books, clothes, and other items, reducing clutter and making cleaning easier.
By having a designated place for everything, you reduce the time spent looking for items. Additionally, it makes tidying up faster and easier, simplifying your cleaning routine.
11. Set Cleaning Goals
Setting cleaning goals can be a great motivator. It gives you a clear direction and helps you stay focused.
For example, your goal could be to clean your entire house in two hours. This creates a sense of urgency, helping you clean more efficiently and effectively.
12. Use Technology
Technology can be a great ally in simplifying your cleaning routine. There are various cleaning gadgets available that can make your work easier.
For example, a robotic vacuum cleaner can clean your floors without you lifting a finger. Similarly, a dishwasher can wash your dishes while you do other tasks. By leveraging technology, you can reduce the amount of time and effort you spend on cleaning.
13. Batch Similar Tasks
Batching involves grouping similar tasks together. It’s a time management technique that can simplify your cleaning routine.
For example, instead of dusting a room, then vacuuming it, and then mopping it, do all the dusting in the entire house first, then all the vacuuming, and then all the mopping. This way, you’re not constantly switching tasks, making your cleaning process more efficient.
14. Prioritize Tasks
Not all cleaning tasks need to be done every day. Some can be done weekly, others monthly, and others even less frequently. Prioritizing tasks can simplify your cleaning routine by focusing on what’s most important.
Create a list of all your cleaning tasks and rank them based on their importance and frequency. Focus on the most important tasks first and leave the less important ones for later.
15. Don’t Strive for Perfection
Remember, the goal of cleaning is to create a comfortable and healthy living environment, not to achieve perfection. Don’t stress over minor imperfections.
Instead of spending hours trying to get your windows to be streak-free, focus on tasks that have a bigger impact on your home’s cleanliness and hygiene. This not only simplifies your cleaning routine but also reduces cleaning-related stress.