Let’s face it, keeping a tidy home can feel like a never-ending battle. Toys get scattered, dishes pile up, and dust bunnies seem to multiply overnight! But what if I told you there’s a secret weapon used by people with sparkling houses? It’s not magic (although it might sometimes feel like it!), it’s all about smart habits.
These aren’t crazy time-consuming chores either. We’re talking about small, easy things you can do every day, or even every few minutes, to keep your home feeling fresh and organised. So, grab a cuppa, put your feet up, and get ready to learn the secrets of a clean and calm home!
15 Simple Habits of People Who Keep Their Home Clean
Following are the 15 simple and easy habits of people who keep their home clean without getting overwhelm:
Habit #1: The One-Minute Tidy
We all have those moments where things feel a bit out of control. Papers pile up on the counter, clothes get tossed on the chair – it happens! But here’s the trick: don’t let it snowball. Instead, get in the habit of the “one-minute tidy.” Set a timer for just 60 seconds and see how much you can accomplish. Put away stray items, fold a pile of laundry, wipe down the kitchen counter – you’d be surprised what a difference a minute can make!
Habit #2: The “Put it Away” Rule
This might seem obvious, but it’s a game-changer. Whenever you take something out, make a habit of putting it back in its designated spot straightaway. Books go on the bookshelf, shoes go in the rack, that vase you used goes back on the side table. This simple rule stops clutter from accumulating and keeps everything looking organised.
Habit #3: Make the Bed Every Morning
It only takes a few minutes, but starting your day with a made bed instantly makes your room feel more put-together. Plus, it sets a positive tone for the day and encourages you to keep other areas tidy too.
Habit #4: Dishes Don’t Wait
Here’s a secret (well, not so much a secret!): dishes don’t magically clean themselves. Left in the sink, they become a mountain and a source of stress. Instead, wash them straight after use, or put them straight in the dishwasher. This keeps your kitchen looking neat and saves you a big clean-up job later.
Habit #5: Clean as You Cook
While you’re whipping up a delicious meal, why not tackle some cleaning at the same time? Chop vegetables, then wipe down the chopping board. Put away ingredients while something simmers. You’ll be surprised how much you can achieve while you cook, minimising the post-dinner clean-up.
Habit #6: The Power of the Laundry Basket
Clothes lying around are the enemy of a tidy home. Invest in a good-sized laundry basket and make it a habit to toss dirty clothes in there straight away. Resist the urge to create a “clean clothes chair” – put them away folded or ironed when they’re dry.
Habit #7: Tidy Up Before Bed
Take a quick ten minutes before bed to do a little tidying. Put away any stray items, straighten up cushions, and put things back in their places. This small routine sets you up for a calmer, more organised morning.
Habit #8: Embrace the Quick Wipe-Down
Don’t underestimate the power of the quick wipe-down! Notice crumbs on the counter after breakfast? Give it a swipe with a wet cloth. See dust gathering on the mantelpiece? Grab a duster and give it a quick once-over. These little cleaning bursts take seconds but make a big difference in keeping your home feeling fresh.
Habit #9: Delegate! (Even if it’s to the dog!)
Okay, maybe your dog won’t actually clean (although wouldn’t that be nice?), but you can definitely delegate tasks to other members of the household. Get your family involved in putting away dishes, tidying toys, or helping with laundry. Even small contributions can make a big difference.
Habit #10: The Magic of Multitasking
Listen to an audiobook or podcast while you clean. Fold clothes while watching your favourite TV show. Cleaning doesn’t have to be boring! Multitasking makes chores feel less daunting and can even be a fun way to catch up on your favourite shows or podcasts.
Habit #11: Declutter Regularly
Clutter is the enemy of a clean home. It makes tidying feel overwhelming and can even make your space feel smaller. Here are some tips for decluttering regularly:
- The One-Bag-a-Day Challenge: Dedicate 5-10 minutes each day to decluttering one specific area. Fill a bag with items you no longer need, use, or love. This could be clothes that don’t fit or outdated magazines. Donate or sell the items in good condition, and recycle the rest.
- The Seasonal Sort: Every few months, go through your belongings with a seasonal lens. Pack away winter clothes when summer arrives, and vice versa. This keeps your storage spaces organised and prevents clutter build-up.
- The “Does it Spark Joy?” Method: Made popular by tidying guru Marie Kondo, this method encourages you to hold each item and ask yourself if it “sparks joy.” If not, it’s time to thank it for its service and let it go.
Habit #12: Deep Clean Like a Pro (Without Spending Hours!)
Deep cleaning is essential for a truly sparkling home, but it doesn’t have to be a weekend-long ordeal. Here’s how to tackle deep cleaning like a pro:
- Make a Schedule: Divide deep cleaning tasks into smaller chunks and schedule them throughout the week or month. This way, you’re not overwhelmed by a giant to-do list all at once.
- Focus on High-Traffic Areas: Kitchens, bathrooms, and floors get the most use, so focus your deep cleaning efforts on these areas first.
- Embrace the Power of Products: Invest in good quality cleaning products designed for specific tasks. The right product can make cleaning much easier and more effective.
- Open the Windows: Fresh air works wonders while cleaning! Open windows to let out dust, odours, and cleaning fumes.
Habit #13: Befriend the Vacuum Cleaner
Vacuuming regularly (ideally a couple of times a week) is a must for keeping your home clean and dust-free. It removes dirt, crumbs, hair, and allergens, making your home healthier and more pleasant to live in.
Habit #14: Embrace the “Natural” Clean**
Many effective cleaning solutions can be made with everyday household items. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant, baking soda is a great deodoriser, and lemon juice can be a powerful cleaning agent. Not only are these options often cheaper, but they’re also gentler on the environment.
Habit #15: Celebrate Your Successes!
Keeping a clean home takes effort, so celebrate your victories! Did you manage to finally declutter that overflowing drawer? Did your kitchen sparkle after a deep clean? Take a moment to appreciate your hard work and enjoy the feeling of a clean and organised space.
Bonus Habit: Make Cleaning Fun!
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore. Put on some music you love, light a scented candle, or make it a family activity. A little fun can go a long way in making cleaning feel less like a burden and more like a chance to refresh your space and unwind.
Remember, the key to keeping your home clean isn’t about spending hours scrubbing or following a rigid cleaning schedule. It’s about incorporating small, manageable habits into your daily routine. By following these simple tips, you can create a clean and organised home that feels like a sanctuary, without feeling overwhelmed by the process!
15 Simple Habits of People Who Keep Their Home Clean: FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about keeping your home clean and organised:
1. I have a busy life – how can I possibly find time to clean?
We get it! Life can be hectic, but the key is incorporating small cleaning habits into your daily routine. Focus on “one-minute tidies” throughout the day, put dishes away as you use them, and clean as you cook. These small bursts take minimal time but make a big difference. You can also try scheduling specific cleaning tasks for different days of the week, so you’re not overwhelmed by a giant to-do list all at once.
2. My family seems to make a mess faster than I can clean it! What can I do?
Get your family involved! Delegate age-appropriate tasks like putting away toys, setting the table, or helping with laundry. Even small contributions can lighten the load and teach your family valuable life skills. Plus, when everyone pitches in, it feels less like your sole responsibility.
3. I hate cleaning! How can I make it more enjoyable?
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore! Put on some upbeat music you love, light a scented candle to create a relaxing atmosphere, or turn it into a family activity. Listen to an audiobook or podcast while you tidy, or make a game of it with your kids. A little creativity can go a long way in making cleaning feel less like a burden and more like a chance to refresh your space and unwind.
4. I’m drowning in clutter! How can I declutter effectively?
Start small and be consistent! Try the “one-bag-a-day” challenge, where you dedicate 5-10 minutes each day to decluttering a specific area and fill a bag with items you no longer need, use, or love. Consider the “seasonal sort” method, where you pack away clothes for different seasons to keep storage spaces organised. The “KonMari” method, popularised by Marie Kondo, encourages you to hold each item and ask yourself if it “sparks joy.” If not, thank it for its service and let it go. Remember, decluttering is a continuous process, so be patient and celebrate your progress!
5. I want to use eco-friendly cleaning products, but are they effective?
Absolutely! There are many effective cleaning solutions you can make with everyday household items. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant, baking soda is a great deodoriser, and lemon juice can be a powerful cleaning agent. Not only are these options often cheaper, but they’re also gentler on the environment. You can find many online resources for DIY cleaning solutions that tackle various cleaning tasks.
6. Deep cleaning feels overwhelming! How can I make it less daunting?
Break it down! Instead of tackling deep cleaning in one giant weekend session, divide the tasks into smaller chunks and schedule them throughout the week or month. This way, you’re not overwhelmed by a giant to-do list all at once. Focus on high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and floors first. Invest in good quality cleaning products designed for specific tasks – the right product can make cleaning much easier and more effective. Finally, open the windows to let out dust, odours, and cleaning fumes while you work.
7. What are some good tools and products to invest in for keeping my home clean?
A good quality vacuum cleaner is a must for removing dirt, crumbs, hair, and allergens. A sturdy laundry basket helps keep dirty clothes contained. Microfiber cloths are versatile and can be used for various cleaning tasks without harsh chemicals. A good all-purpose cleaner and a disinfectant are handy to have on hand. However, remember that many cleaning tasks can be tackled with everyday household items!
8. Is there a “right” way to clean?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach! Find what works best for you and your lifestyle. Some people prefer to clean a little bit every day, while others like to dedicate bigger chunks of time for weekly cleaning sprees. Experiment and see what routine keeps your home clean and organised without feeling overwhelmed.
9. I feel like I clean constantly, but my house never looks truly clean!
This could be a sign of clutter build-up. Regularly decluttering your space makes cleaning and tidying much easier. Additionally, focus on high-traffic areas that make the biggest visual impact. A quick wipe-down of the kitchen counters, straightening cushions on the sofa, and putting away stray items can make a surprising difference in how clean your home feels.
10. Keeping my house clean feels like a constant battle. Is it ever possible to win?
Absolutely! Remember, the goal isn’t about achieving spotless perfection. It is about creating a comfortable and organised space that reflects your lifestyle. By incorporating these simple habits into your routine, you can establish a system that keeps your home feeling clean and fresh without feeling like you’re constantly battling against mess. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and focus on enjoying a clean and organised space that brings you joy. After all, your home should be a sanctuary, not a source of stress!
