Some people naturally love cleaning and it makes them feel relaxed and satisfied. Others see that chore exactly the opposite way. If you fall in the latter group, we have a few good pointers on how to make cleaning less overwhelming. Believe us, they work!
Have a schedule
Chaotic tasks create the most stress because you just know you have to do so much but have no idea where to start. Create a cleaning schedule for your home. Not only will it give you a clear structure about the work that needs doing, but it will also allow you to take on bitesize tasks at a time. Split the schedule into daily, weekly and monthly activities. To make it more fun, you can add colours and cool stickers. Don’t forget to clearly mark the laundry days. This way you will never run out of socks or clean school uniforms for the children.
Keep a checklist
Having a schedule is a good starting point, but to make the chores even more organised and lift additional stress, keep a checklist too. Mark the tasks that have been completed and the date you did it. That’s how you know when you last cleaned and disinfected the toilet, the air vents, the dishwasher. It’s better to have it documented than letting it take up mental space in your head.
Get more people involved
Cleaning can become very overwhelming if you are the only one doing it all the time. Share the chores with your partner or housemates. If you have children over the age of 5 they can take on some light tasks too. Even if the help is not a lot, it will still make a difference. And, it creates good habits for everyone involved.
Listen to music
Oftentimes people dislike cleaning because it is mundane and boring. Something as simple as playing your favourite tunes, though, can completely change the scene. Scientists have proven that listening to music boosts serotonin levels, which immediately lifts up your mood and gives you more energy. That, combined with the effect from moving while you are doing the chores, will give you a much more enjoyable sensation and make you feel good about yourself.
Turn it into a challenge with rewards
Cleaning can be fun if you choose to see it in a slightly different way. For example, stop calling it a chore. It could be your daily or weekly workout. Squat 20 times while you are wiping the windows or do 10 lunges while vacuuming the floor. Give yourself challenges and a lovely reward afterwards. Most of us have a competitive nature and even on a subconscious level, little personal dares like these make us more motivated.
Outsource when it gets too much
If no amount of music, games and scheduling make it bearable that means it’s time to simply outsource cleaning to the professionals. Many families and individuals truly do not have the time to regularly clean their home. It doesn’t make them dirty or bad people. They just have different and higher priorities. That’s why professional cleaning services exist. If you feel it’s time to book a team, just do it.