Photo: © cherryandbees - Adobestock
Deep cleaning your house twice a year is a tedious chore—but if you don't do it, dust and dirt accumulate in areas that aren't regularly cleaned. Make spring cleaning more manageable by following these simple steps.
1. Make a Checklist
Having a list of all the spring-cleaning tasks you want to accomplish will keep you from getting overwhelmed or forgetting certain tasks. If you can't come up with a detailed cleaning list yourself, there are plenty of templates online you can use. When you've finished a task, make sure to check it off your list. Physically crossing a cleaning task off your to-do list is emotionally gratifying and will give you a sense of accomplishment.
2. Do a Few Tasks Every Day
You don't need to knock out all your spring cleaning in one day. After you make a list, spread your tasks out over a week. Plan what you're going to clean each day and stick to your schedule. Don't overwhelm yourself by trying to do too much at once. Overexertion leads to stress and procrastination. Accomplishing a few tasks each day is much more manageable than trying to complete your whole list at once.
3. Move to Some Music
Most dreaded activities can be made a little easier by listening to music—there's a reason people take their headphones to the gym. Make cleaning more fun by creating a playlist and jamming out while you clean. The music will distract you a bit from the monotony of the task at hand. If you aren't big on listening to music, perhaps find an audiobook or your favorite podcast to motivate you while cleaning.
4. Ask for Assistance
Unless you live alone, you're not the only one responsible for keeping the house clean. You'll be doing your children a disservice by not teaching them to pitch in and share the responsibilities of house cleaning—and you'll likely exhaust yourself and feel resentful. Make your spring-cleaning list and assign tasks to your children and spouse. Everyone in the house should have an equal part in keeping it clean.
5. Motivate Yourself with a Reward
It's easier to motivate yourself to push through a tough job if you know there's a treat waiting for you at the end. Think about rewarding yourself with something special, such as splurging on an item you've been really wanting. Consider supporting a local business by buying a gift card or having dinner delivered by your favorite restaurant. If your whole family is pitching in to help clean, plan a fun family activity for the day after you all finish spring cleaning.
