Setting up the benchmark for an organised household requires a change in mindset before anything else. If you think of cleaning as “work,” it will add stress and anxiety to the task. Take a cue from these cleaning ideas outlined below and tackle household chores head-on.
Hack 1: Segregate Between Untidy and Dirty
Believe it or not but there is a very real difference between what you would call untidy and dirty. As a helpful starter tip, tackle dirty items (which can be a health hazard) first. This includes dirty laundry, unwashed kitchen utensils piling up in the sink, dirty and muddy shoes, etc. On the other hand, messy items would be toys thrown around in a room, unkempt books on a bookshelf, and so on. When it comes to household chores, tackle the dirt first!
Hack 2: Don’t Aim for Perfection
Yep, you read that right. As beautiful as this image looks above, it is not a practical thought. You cannot possibly have such a well-put wardrobe at all times of the year. So, when it comes to setting the right standard and benchmark for cleaning, set realistic, smart, and achievable goals. In other words, do not aim for perfection.
Hack 3: Tackle One Spot at a Time
Household cleaning can be overwhelming for many people because of the sheer volume of work involved. To make it easy on the mind (and your body), clean one spot at a time. For instance, you can start by cleaning your closet on a day and then move to tidying your kitchen cabinets on the next day. You don’t need to clean your house inside out in one sitting. Take it easy and slow, one spot at a time.
Hack 4: Do Not Go Overboard Correcting
Another classic mistake most people end up making is over-perfecting their home while cleaning. You don’t need to have books in a particular angle or position 24×7. For some perspective, take a look at this spacious vintage-style kitchen. While it is pleasing to the eyes and extremely well-put, it is not practically feasible to ensure nothing is out of place, even for a second. Over-perfecting while organising will only add to the stress so avoid it on all accounts.
Hack 5: Prioritise What Matters the Most
A key component of tackling household chores the pro way is to prioritise the kind of items you need. Instead of going at it in full swing, think about what you truly need. And sometimes, let go of a few dirty dishes if the choice is between spending time with family/friends and doing household chores. By thinking of cleaning as a basic essential, you will be able to put things into perspective.
To get started, invest in the famous certified KonMari consultant, Marie Kondo’s storage boxes, containers, and baskets. They come in different sizes and shapes and allow you to tidy up various parts of your home effortlessly.
Hack 6: Don’t Lose Perspective of Your Kitchen
Your kitchen is a place that will get messy. The sooner you accept this reality, the better it will be for you. Instead of treating your kitchen space as a showroom, think of it as a work room–one where you are happily whipping up tasty dishes for your family. So, do not stress if your kitchen is getting dirty and if you have a party to throw. Instead, ask for help with cleaning up once the party is over and make it a collaborative, fun activity!
Hack 7: Do Not Apologise or Feel Guilty About the Mess and Thank Your Home!
Often, people apologise to guests for the ‘mess’ the house is in. But it helps to cut yourself some slack and take it easy, especially if you are juggling multiple tasks. If people suddenly drop in and your home is a tiny bit dirty, it is perfectly natural to not be apologetic about it.
As we mentioned, you are living in a home, not a showroom. Things are bound to get untidy as the day unravels. So, thank your home for literally protecting you all-year round and inject positivity every chance you get!
Hack 8: Set Up a Routine that Works for YOU
This one’s a keeper. You can see all the best organising shows in the world and try and follow everyday tips that experts dish out. But in the end, you’ll not be able to sustain it if the cleaning schedule does not fit into your natural routine. So, save yourself unnecessary trouble and set up a cleaning routine that works for you. If you don’t feel like doing household chores on weekends and wish to tackle it on weekdays, go ahead!
Hack 9: Don’t Stress!
Finally, intentionally focus on creating a change in mindset. Do not view cleaning as a punishing activity or something that you have to do. Think of ways to make it fun. Put on your favourite music and take it easy. Don’t mop till you drop or you’ll find yourself stuck procrastinating cleaning for the next couple of months!
Keeping your home organised requires relentless dedication and work. However, if you tackle it in short-bursts of quick tasks, it is easily achievable. For more handy tips on how to get ahead of your household chores, come on over to HomeLane. Happy browsing!
