The concept of spring cleaning is, if you ask me, overrated. Accumulating a hefty seasonal list of to-dos sounds like too much stress. I would much prefer to do a little bit at a time on a regular basis. Of course, day-to-day life leads to a certain amount of procrastination until some major event is approaching, like hosting a gathering or moving. And then it’s time to play catch-up.
But, as a mom of a small infant, spending an entire day cleaning is just not possible.
I know you mamas of toddlers and kiddos feel the same way. In the past year or so, I developed a routine agenda of important chores to accomplish regularly. I am far from perfect at it, so I do allow myself some flexibility. But by attempting to keep up with it, I don’t have to face a major day-long marathon of back-breaking spring cleaning.
So here’s my process for creating your un-spring cleaning routine.
- Develop your own personal chore chart for you and your family. Which tasks are most important for you to complete daily? Weekly? Biweekly? Monthly? Consider for yourself the areas of your home that need cleaning and when. Then turn that into a simple chart. I’m sure there are apps for this, but I prefer handwriting mine and posting it on my fridge.
- Each time you complete the task, write the date next to the item on the chart.
- Set a reminder for yourself the next time it is due.
- Don’t think about it again until then!
If you are a new mama, a single mama, or just an over-worked mama in need of a helping hand, don’t be ashamed to ask! You are not alone in the struggle to do all the things – making sure there is healthy food to eat, clean clothes to wear, money in the bank, and clean sinks and bathtubs. It’s hard work, and we all need help sometimes.
By doing a little bit at a time, you can avoid becoming too overwhelmed and feel productive every day!
