Does anyone really enjoy cleaning? I mean, c’mon. Like REALLY enjoy it. It’s obviously never been my favorite thing, given this picture my dad texted me cir. 2012 of my room back home (this was on a good day):
So obviously I don’t love it. That being said, I’ve put a few measures in place to help myself at least like it a little more!
Identify Your Cleaning Schedule and Own It
A cleaning schedule isn’t a “one size fits all,” so find the type of cleaning schedule that works best for you. Maybe it’s a little bit every day; maybe it’s one hour per week; maybe it’s once per month! Stop feeling like you have to live up to a cleaning expectation and be comfortable with your own cleaning style.
Personally, I love cleaning right when I get home from work (with my last few drops of ambition for the day). Being able to enjoy a clean(er) house in the evening helps me relax. Plus, I love waking up to a clean(er) house the next morning!
Schedule Your Cleaning Ahead of Time
Instead of waiting for that moment when you think, “OMG, my house is a wreck,” plan ahead for your next cleaning session. Don’t set unrealistic expectations, but mentally block off 10, 30, or 60 minutes. Set a reminder on your phone and don’t make any excuses!
Invest in Cleaning Products You Love
Who actually enjoys that chemically-cleaned smell? Honestly. It doesn’t smell like “home” or “safe” or “natural” or “I’d-eat-food-off-this.” More like, “just-cleaned-up-a-murder.”
The other week I picked up some “natural” disinfecting wipes at Target for about $2.50. Let me tell you – they smell FRESH and make me actually want to use them.
I’ll take “Lemongrass Citrus Scent” over chlorine bleach any day, thanks.
Reward Yourself Afterward
I’m not talking a spa day (unless it was a yearly spring cleaning type of deal), but do something small to reward yourself. Whether you go out and grab your favorite coffee or just relax on your couch for 10 minutes, give yourself something to look forward to after your recent accomplishment.
Our favorite is a Caramel Cold Press Coffee from Caribou (say that 5 times fast, LOL):
Relish the Clean Times
Once you get your house truly cleaned and picked up, take a few minutes to take in your surroundings – even snap a few pictures! Appreciate your hard work and think of this moment the next time you know you need to clean.
For more resources to help make cleaning a little more bearable, check out the Rise and Renovate Pinterest – c l e a n i n g – board!
Thanks for sharing these tips, Hayley! I think having a cleaning schedule is really a good idea. Also, aside from buying cleaning products, I love making my own non-toxic cleaners at home! 🙂
Great post Hayley!! I think my mom had it right. She’d make a list of chores then we’d play a game of Yahtzee and whoever lost had to pick a chore to go do. Then we’d play another game for the next chore!
I love that!! Sounds like more game than cleaning 😉