Rules for an Organized House

You probably noticed by now, homes don't clean themselves. Even if you are fortunate enough to have a cleaning service come through you are still tasked with having to pick up for them, day to day tasks and the contents of your refrigerator. Here are some quick habits that you can form to allow you to spend less time cleaning and more time having fun.

Set A Cleaning Timer

You don't need to set aside 20 hours one day to get things in order. You only need 20 minutes a day. Set a timer for 20 minutes and do as much cleaning and picking up in those 20 minutes and then move on with your day. You won't clean the entire house in one day but it will make you feel accomplished and perhaps by the end of the week, your house may be looking free of clutter. If you don't have 20 minutes to spare, set a timer for what time you do have. Even picking up for 10, 15 minutes will add up, any cleaning is better than no cleaning!

One-Minute Rule

Small tasks add up quickly when you're saving them to do all at once. So, if it takes less than a minute to complete, do it immediately. Put that cup in the dishwasher rather than the sink. Break down that Amazon box for recycling right after you unbox your goodie. Go through the mail as soon as you bring it in. 

Start a Load of Laundry in the Morning

If you have a full load in the hamper, toss it in the washer while you're getting ready for work or getting the kids ready for school. When you get home, you'll already feel ahead of schedule with just drying and a little fluffing and folding to do at night. Or if you are like many of us, it will be ready to fold the next morning. Folding laundry is a great way to use your 20 minute timer!

Always Leave a Room With Something in Hand

Whatever room you're in, chances are there's a toy, cup, blanket or hat that needs to be delivered back to another room. And we bet, you walk from one room to another room many times throughout the day. Every time you leave a room, quickly scan for anything that belongs where you're going and you'll start controlling the clutter.

Order Matters

Whether you're cleaning on a Saturday or Wednesday, your mind (and body) will move more quickly from vacuuming to mopping to dusting if you check chores off in the same order — making it easier to keep your home tidy and clean. Don't overthink your task, just do it and move on. 

Stop at the Door

Establish a house rule that shoes, bags, jackets, and "pocket items" — your keys, sunglasses, wallet, and phone — are stowed in a drop zone at the door. As soon as you walk through the door, put your items where they belong. Not only will this free up space on the floor and counters but you will know exactly where your keys, sunglasses and shoes are the next time you are running out the door.

Clean Out the Fridge

Don't let moldy leftovers take over shelf space. As you are taking out the kitchen trash, scan the refrigerator for any uneaten leftovers, moldy food and expired condiments. If you are feeling really inspired, you can quickly wipe down the shelves while you're scanning. You'll get a clearer view of your food options and open up space for ingredients needed in the coming week.

Get Everyone On Board

When one person leaves a dish in the sink, it paves a slippery slope for others to follow suit. Make sure everyone understands their responsibilities and chores for maintaining order in the home. Many of these simple rules can be done by everyone in the family. Help your kids build great habits now, their future families will thank you! Follow Arrive Real Estate Group for more great tips on how to keep your home shining inside and out.