How to Make Cleaning Fun and Efficient

Cleaning is a task dreaded by many. Even I struggle to find the motivation to clean sometimes–and I clean for a living. Here are some things that I do to make cleaning fun while also being efficient.

1. Put on your favorite tunes to set the mood

2. Cleaning Olympics–set a stopwatch and time yourself to see how quickly you can clean a room. Write it down and try to beat your record next time!

3. Clean your own house as if someone was paying you to do so–pretend you’re a housekeeper and try to look at your home objectively to spot dirt.

4. Cleaning accessories. Mop slippers, colorful gloves, fun sponges/tools, and other cleaning accessories can make the job more enjoyable.

5. Set yourself up for success by cleaning as you go–if you take something out of a closet or cupboard, put it back before moving on. Dirty a dish, save a step by putting it straight into the dishwasher instead of into the sink first.

6. Try to spend 5-10 minutes before going to bed where you tidy up and get everything ready for the morning. Not allowing clutter, dirt, and dust to build up makes it so much easier on your cleaning days.

For those living with roommates or other household members, I’ve attached some printable cleaning resources here:

1. Cleaning schedule/checklist

2. Chores chart

3. College dorm cleaning essentials

PRO tip: insert these checklists and charts into a plastic document protector and use a whiteboard/dry-erase marker to check tasks off as they are completed. It will be easily wipable with a paper towel or dry cloth when the time comes to reset them.

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