10 Tips to Keep Your House Clean with a Busy Family

1.Embrace the Power of Routines

One of the best ways to keep a tidy home is to establish cleaning routines. Whether it's a quick morning tidy-up or a more thorough cleaning on weekends, having a consistent plan helps everyone understand their roles. Routines help kids learn responsibility and keep parents from feeling overwhelmed!

2.Incorporate Everyone in the Family

Cleaning doesn’t have to be a one-person job. Involving your family makes it easier and more fun! Create a cleaning chart that assigns tasks to each family member based on their age and ability. For instance, toddlers can help pick up toys while adults tackle the bigger chores. Teamwork makes the dream work!

3.Be Smart with Storage Solutions

Clutter can easily build up in busy households, but smart storage solutions can save the day. Use baskets, shelves, and bins to keep things organized. Labeling each bin helps everyone put items back where they belong. The quicker you can put things away, the less likely they will pile up.

4. Set Up a 15-Minute Daily Clean

Sometimes all it takes is a little time and effort each day to keep your home feeling fresh. Commit to a 15-minute declutter or cleaning session each evening. Set a timer, tell yourself "its only 15 minutes". You’ll be amazed at how much can be accomplished in such a short time, from wiping surfaces to organizing shoes at the door!

5.Designate a “Drop Zone”

In a busy family, it’s easy for shoes, bags, and jackets to end up all over the house. Set up a specific area near the entrance where everyone can drop off their things. Give each child a basket or space to drop their stuff. You can even label it with their name. This will help keep clutter contained and make it easier to maintain a clean space. Just a simple rack, basket, or a few hooks can make a significant difference!

6.Keep Cleaning Supplies Accessible

If your cleaning supplies are hard to reach or scattered around the house, it makes impromptu clean-ups difficult. Keep your cleaning supplies in an accessible tote or cabinet, making it easy for everyone to grab what they need when they see messes. In the bathroom, keep disinfecting wipes and cleaning supplies near the toilet. It only takes a minute to wipe down or brush the inside of the toilet before use if you notice it is dirty. The easier and more convenient it is to clean, the more likely it will get done!

7.Have a Weekly Cleaning Day

Setting aside one day a week to focus on more significant cleaning tasks can help maintain overall cleanliness. This can include vacuuming, mopping, or dusting - tasks that might get overlooked during a regular week. For example, Saturday mornings may be a great time to open the curtains, turn on the lights, and play some up beat music. This can help set the mood and help motivate everyone. Then have everyone focus on a task or a room to clean. Make it a family affair with everyone contributing, and perhaps even reward yourselves afterward!

8.Practice Minimalism

The less stuff you have, the less clutter you’ll need to clean. Periodically assess your belongings and consider donating or tossing things you no longer use or need. Try to declutter at least every six months. You will be surprised how fast things accumulate. If you don't use it, donate it to someone who will. Teaching children the value of minimalism can simplify your living space and cleanup efforts tremendously.

9.Utilize Technology for Reminders

Don’t underestimate the power of technology! Utilize apps or calendar reminders for cleaning schedules. Even setting a family group text to remind everyone about their chores can keep things organized, ensuring nothing gets overlooked.

10.Finish with a Family Clean-Up Session

A family clean up session at the end of the week can reinforce the cleaning habits you've established. Make it fun by adding music or maybe even some friendly competition. Not only will you end the week with a tidy home, but you’ll also create lasting memories through teamwork.