| The only thing that people seem to hate more than working out is cleaning. I am guilty of it too. It seems that no matter how hard I try, the dog hair reappears the second I put the vacuum away. The winter seems to be the worst because the furnace kicks on and blows the dust and hair from the vents. It’s never ending. |
Trade Harsh for Natural
When you start making a healthier lifestyle change it’s natural to want to continue it throughout the rest of your every day life. We have pretty much stopped using the super harsh chemicals to clean with. I find that vinegar and water work very well for most surfaces and I use a steam mop for my floors. I can add a few drops of essential oils if I want it to smell nice. I’m not sure I can give up my Dawn though since I have a LOT of greasy dishes.
Get Rid of the Clutter Each Week
My house used to be clutter central. When I started losing weight and started removing clothes that don’t fit me anymore, I just kept going. I was on a mission to make my home clutter free. If something comes in the house, something else has to go out. I stop to think about buying things now. Do I really need it, or do I just WANT it. Big difference!
Once the clutter was gone, ok, mostly gone (I’m still working on it) I set up a schedule for myself that has seemed to work well for me. My biggest tip is to get the whole family in the habit of putting something back when they get finished using it. That was our worst fault and one we still break every once in a while.
Set a Schedule
Monday is bathroom day. We have three. Mine, the guest one and the one in my studio. I’ve put my son in charge of his, so that leaves me two to clean. I spray or wipe the shower down immediately after using it to keep it clean. That leaves the sink, mirror, toilet and floor. That is easily managed in a half hour.
Tuesday is bedroom day. Again, we have three. My son is in charge of his. My husband has taken over Jess’ old room as his office, so he does that one. I clean my bedroom. Vacuum, windows, change/wash sheets and curtains, dust and done! Again, can be done in about 15-20 minutes.
Wednesday is the living room. Dusting and a general de-cluttering takes about 15 minutes.
Thursday is the kitchen/laundry room. Wipe down all appliances and windows, dust and wipe counters. Steam mop. 30 minutes. I do wipe out sink and put dishes away daily.
Friday I clean up downstairs. That’s the rec room/studio/office. Again just a quick straighten, dust and mop and I’m done.
Vacuuming gets done a few times a week because of the dogs, but my house stays a lot cleaner with this schedule. If I get super busy during the week I can skip a day and make it up on the weekend. If I have guests coming I am no longer in a panic tossing things into closets or behind closed doors. I just clean off the kitchen counter and vacuum and I’m guest ready. I do some deep cleaning on a regular schedule as well, but this is good for just keeping the place presentable long term without being overwhelmed. In a pinch, diffuse some oils or light some candles and dim the lights! haha
