Who doesn’t want to spend less time cleaning and more time having fun? Here’s how to zoom through the chores and free up more free time…
Remember how when the kids were little and you seemed to be forever cleaning up endless Lego? You probably imagined that the house would always be immaculate and housework would be a doddle once they were older. Except somehow it didn’t quite work out like that!
The good news is there are simple strategies that can help you to lighten the load of housework…
1. Clean as you go along
Housework doesn’t seem like such a big deal if you keep on top of things. Don’t let dishes pile up in the sink, do your washing regularly, always put things away straight after using them – all obvious stuff really but easy to forget in the daily rush!
2. Get a routine going
Ever heard the expression about jobs expanding to fit the time available? If you have a set schedule for when you clean, and allot yourself a set amount of time for each task, chances are you’ll get through it quicker.
3. Get your supplies organised
Set aside an hour or so to go through your cleaning cupboard, sorting everything out into categories and chucking out anything ancient, so that you don’t waste precious time looking for what you need.
4. Recruit your cleaning team
Get the whole family involved in the chores. Your partner could be in charge of cleaning the bathroom, for example, and with a little gentle persuasion even teenagers can usually be coerced into helping out.
5. Use the best kit
It’s best not to put up with appliances that aren’t up to the job. A new vacuum cleaner may seem like an indulgence, but if it stops you having to waste time going over the same bit of carpet again and again and again, it’ll quickly earn its keep.
6. Have a methodical approach
Start at the door to each room and then clean in a circle from top to bottom. This will help you avoid missing a spot or cleaning the same bit twice.
7. Don’t wear shoes indoors
Most of the dirt around the house is brought in from outside on the soles of your shoes. Put slippers out in the hallway for your guests. Give it a go and you’ll quickly see a big difference!
*Not suitable for unfinished, oiled/waxed wooden boards or carpet
This article is from Fairy Australia & New Zealand.
