Moms Talk Network

This article is written by Guest Blogger Alica Seba of Schmoozins.

Before you had kids, your house was probably nice and tidy. Fast forward to today, you’ve now got children
occupying your humble abode along side you and the term nice and tidy just went out the window. If you’re like most moms of little ones your home probably needs a good cleaning. Housecleaning with kids is not impossible, regardless of what your house might show. Here are some tips to help you keep your house clean without spending all your time picking up after everyone.

First and foremost, do NOT expect perfection! If you do, you’re in for a disappointment. So throw that “my house has to be spotless” attitude out that dirty window.

Second, enlist the help of your children. Toddlers especially love to help. The terms “I want to do it myself” and “I help” can and should be used to your advantage. Children as young as two years old are usually more than willing to help fold and put away laundry, pick up their toys, dust, rinse dishes, and more. So go ahead mom, let them help. It might not be exactly the way you would do it, but it’s getting done and it won’t kill the towels to be folded differently, I promise!

The earlier you get your kids involved in housekeeping, the easier it will be to get them to help out later on too. They will see housework as a joint effort that involves all the members of the family, not just mom.

Third, create a list. As with anything, once you have children, lists are almost mandatory if you want to get everything done. However, be wary of your lists. Don’t make them so long you can’t finish them. Compile a list that can be accomplished each day. If the bathtub doesn’t get clean, it really is ok. Just, clean it the next day.

Make specific days of the week certain household chore days. For instance, vacuum all the carpets on Monday and mop the floors on Tuesday, etc. There are certain tasks that will need to be completed daily. For those get yourself into a routine. One example of this is washing dishes. Every night after dinner, wash the dishes and wipe all the kitchen counters and appliances. Waking up to a clean kitchen can really make a difference in what mood you start your day in.

For more detailed cleaning, such as washing windows, set a time once a month or every few months to do these tasks. If something gets dirty from these tasks before the scheduled time to clean, do your best to let it go until it’s time. If you just can’t take it or you find the tasks need to be done more often, adjust your schedule.

Don’t expect the first week to run smoothly either. To find a routine that’s good for you and the whole family, you’ll need to work at it and adjust accordingly. Once you find a schedule that works for you and keeps you from pulling your hair out or refusing to invite guests over, stick with it and you’ll be amazed at the outcome.

About the Author: Alice Seba is the Schmoozer in Chief at Schmoozins, the online magazine that gives all women a voice. Visit us for more family and parenting tips.

photo credit: evelynishere