Cleaning Strategy Week 2: Surface Cleaning

Some people say the easiest way to get started is to set a timer and just do what you can in that time frame. First, let's break cleaning down into two categories: surface cleaning and deep cleaning.

This week we'll focus on the surfaces. That means you're not going to do any deep cleaning right away. So don't clean the entire bathroom from top to bottom. Don't purge the junk drawers. Don't organize the baby's closet. This week is about getting you into an around-the-house daily cleaning routine. If you can, develop a short and easy everyday routine for morning and for evening. Each task should take you no more than 10 to 15 minutes. Set a timer to see how long it actually takes, and let's go!

Morning Routine

Bathroom: Sweep up hair and dust on floor, clean mirror, wipe up sink and countertop, swish toilet with brush. (5-7 minutes)

Overall house: Spot dust, including dust bunnies behind doors. (5 minutes)

Bedroom: Make bed, dust off free spots on dresser, bring baby items back into Baby's room or in designated "baby space." Hang up pajamas and fold extra clothes. (5 to 10 minutes)

Evening Routine

Kitchen: Wash out your sink after dishes are done, clean off countertops, and sweep or lightly damp mop the floor. Wash out bottles if you use them. (7 to 9 minutes)

Family room: "Take a laundry basket, fill it with things that don't belong, and as you go through the house you can put the things back," says Linda Cobb, the Queen of Clean®. This is a great end-of-day pick up for small children's toys, your shoes, hair clips, and bottles. "This immediately gives you order restored. A tidy house always looks cleaner," Cobb says. (10 to 15 minutes)

Bedroom: Straighten your dresser, hang up clothes or toss them in laundry basket. (7 minutes)

Next Week

We'll incorporate bigger tasks like cleaning the bathtub and improving the air quality in your home. It's great to feel motivated, isn't it? You're going to want to jump ahead, but it's important that you get used to doing small tasks first. Don't take on more than you need to.