Cleaning is a chore that most folks must undertake regularly. It is also a chore that is easily “put off” in favor of other activities, often because the person doing the cleaning is not prepared for efficient home cleaning. When cleaning is done haphazardly, it will need to be done more often, and the overall results will likely be less than satisfactory. With some forethought and advance planning, you can set up to accomplish a clean home and keep it that way. Here are some ideas that can help you prepare for efficient home cleaning:
- Make a plan as to how you will proceed with your cleaning. For example, will you clean once weekly and do the whole home, or will you clean a room at a time each day?
- What kind of cleaning will you do? Will you do a basic cleaning weekly and an in-depth cleaning monthly or is there another plan that best suits your needs?
- Will you have any help with the cleaning? Even children can be given simple jobs. Be sure to write down what you expect each person to accomplish. It is helpful to get the opinion of those who will be helping as some may prefer certain jobs. A worker enjoying their job will do better than one who is angry and just working to “get the job done.”
- Decide what kinds of cleaning tools will be needed. Make sure you have all the necessary tools in good running condition and easily available for use. For example, if your vacuum uses filters, be sure there are clean filters readily available if needed.
- Ensure the cleaning products you decide to use are the appropriate ones for your type of flooring, countertops, wood furniture, carpets, and walls. Again, have all cleaning products be used readily available. If there are young children in the home, have the cleaning products kept on high shelves out of reach of small hands. This is especially true of liquids such as bleach and liquid laundry detergent.
- Plan to clean when you are rested, and be sure to wear comfortable clothes that you won’t mind getting stained.
- Listen to your favorite music while you work.
- When you are finished, reward yourself in some way, such as a restaurant meal or ordering that new outfit you’ve been wanting. Remember, your time is worth money so pay yourself and others accordingly.
Plan ahead, have help, have all your needed cleaning supplies readily available, and you will be surprised at how much easier and more efficient cleaning a home can be.
