- 1). Write out a full list of everything that needs to be done to keep your home clean. Include every task--from washing the dishes to dusting. Divide the list into categories of things that need to be done daily, weekly and monthly and write them on separate lists.
- 2). Follow your lists like a schedule, performing the daily tasks each day, but the weekly and monthly tasks on weekends or days when you aren't working and have more time. Take breaks between cleaning tasks so you don't feel like you are cleaning all day.
- 3). Wash dishes directly after meals so they don't pile up and wipe up the countertops as well. This will save you time later on, when messes have dried onto surfaces and dishes.
- 4). Separate your laundry by using a sectioned hamper, which will save the time you would normally spend sorting laundry before washing. Do your laundry as soon as you have a full load so it doesn't pile up, creating more work later, sorting through everything.
- 5). Toss the junk mail in your outdoor bins instead of letting it pile up in your home.
- 6). Delegate responsibilities within your home by using a chore chart. Ask your spouse to help with some of the more difficult tasks, and your children may be able to handle easier tasks, appropriate for their age levels. If your kids have specific rooms where they play, require them to pickup after themselves.
- 7). Set some ground rules about what types of activities are acceptable for certain rooms. Ask your family to keep snacks and meals in the kitchen or dining room exclusively. This can save your furniture and flooring from stains, crumbs and food grease. Ask your kids to keep their toys in the playroom or bedrooms only.
- 8). Refresh the linens and vacuum in guest rooms or other unused rooms monthly, instead of trying to clean them daily. If a room goes unused for a long period of time, refreshing it with fresh linens and a run of the vacuum will keep it tidy.
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