Keeping a clean house with kids (or even just with a busy schedule) can feel like an endless loop of wiping, scrubbing, and picking things up just to turn around and do it all over again. If you’ve been in a slump with housework lately, I’m right there with you. We just got back from vacation and I’m still in vacation mode. That’s why I’m sharing some simple cleaning tips that make an actual difference without fancy products or over-the-top routines. And maybe I’ll pick a corner of the house to clean after I upload this 😉
1. Ditch the Windex, Use Water (or Water & Dish Soap) Instead
You don’t need a pretty colored spray bottle for everything. In fact, good ol’ hot water or a little water mixed with a drop of dish soap works better for some surfaces. And it’s safer for kids and pets! (Cheap + safe = double win) It cuts grease, removes fingerprints, and doesn’t leave streaks. Use a microfiber cloth to wash and then a dry one to dry.
2. Keep a “Nightly Reset” Routine
Take 10–15 minutes after dinner or before bed to reset the main living areas. Pick up toys, fluff pillows, load the dishwasher, and wipe the counters. It makes mornings feel so much calmer. My almost 4 year old has been asking for me to set the timer on my phone so he can help me, so it’s turned into kind of a game our house.
3. Clean Top to Bottom, Left to Right
When I joined the fire department one of the first things I was taught was while washing the trucks to wash your face before your, well, I’ll let you figure that one out. Don’t waste time re-cleaning areas. Always start from the top (like shelves or counters) and work your way down to the floors. And work in one direction around the room.. left to right keeps things efficient and thorough. Does my brain operate like that? No. But maybe yours does.
4. Tidy Up Throw Blankets and Pillows Each Day
It takes less than a minute but makes a huge visual difference. Fold blankets, fluff the couch cushions, and arrange pillows neatly. Even if the rest of the house isn’t perfect, this little habit makes the living room feel clean and put together. I don’t know why but it definitely works.
5. Dryer Sheets for Baseboards
Supposedly used dryer sheets are magic for dusty baseboards. Not only do they pick up dust, but it’s said that they leave a bit of anti-static behind so dust doesn’t stick as quickly next time. Can someone try this and tell me?
6. Make Your Bed. Even if Nothing Else Gets Done
It takes 2 minutes and somehow sets the tone for the whole day. Not only will you start your day with a better mood, but it also instantly makes your bedroom feel cleaner.
7. Clean with the Kids Around But Keep It Simple
Nobody says you have to wait for nap time. Focus on one task at a time, involve your little ones when you can and be ok with imperfect help. My boys are thrilled to help whether I set a timer to see who can pick up more toys or if I give them both a wet rag to wipe things down with. My one year old runs for the vacuum when I say the word “clean” now.
8. Keep Multipurpose Spray Bottles in Key Rooms
A bottle of water and vinegar or water and dish soap in the kitchen, bathroom, and kids’ room can save you time. Humans live for convenience. If it’s there and readily available you’re more likely to use it. A quick spray and wipe when you notice something helps avoid buildup later in the week.
9. Fold Laundry Straight From the Dryer
Oh my gosh who does this? Easier said than done, I know. But when you can, dump it on the bed or a clean surface and fold. Otherwise it turns into Mount Laundry and haunts you for days. You can do it. If it’s only one load you’re folding it’ll take you half the time anyways.
10. Give Yourself Grace
No house is spotless 100% of the time. A clean home is one that’s lived in and cared for.. not one that looks like a Pinterest board at all times. Do what you can, when you can. That’s more than enough.
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