Six Quick and Easy Spring Cleaning Tips for Families
It’s a fact: spring cleaning can seem impossible with children around. It’s like trying to go on a peaceful shopping trip with a toddler in tow. Both are laughable. Cleaning can be a challenge when you have to deal with constant interruptions from little ones, such as “Mom, watch me!” and endless distractions.
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It’s possible to do some serious cleaning, even with children in the home. You won’t get everything done, it may not be quiet, but it is possible to make spring cleaning efficient and, dare I even say, fun.
Are you ready to embrace your inner superhero and clean without losing your mind? Here are six quick and easy spring-cleaning hacks for parents who have kids to help you keep things clean without losing your mind.
1. The Old Bucket Trick
It can seem like you’re always playing catch-up when you have children. Toys and clothes are piled high, and other random items seem to accumulate overnight. What’s the trick? Bring an old basket or bucket into the room that you wish to clean.
To begin, quickly collect anything that doesn’t have a designated “home”. This includes stray books, toys, shoes, and random pieces of paper. Throw them all into the bucket. Set a five-minute timer and try to get rid of as much as possible from the bucket in that time.
Why does it work? It works because it turns a messy situation into something manageable, and even a busy day feels achievable. Repeat this process in other rooms. You’ll soon see that your space is cleaner and less cluttered.
It’s also fun to make it a game if there are kids around! You can get your child to find “homes, or to race the clock to put the things away. This is a quick way to keep the momentum going.
2. Focus Brings Results
Cleaning the whole house at once is stressful, especially if you have children who need snacks, breaks, and entertainment. Adopt the clean one room at a time method.
Choose a room and focus your attention on Permit yourself to ignore the rest of the home for the moment. You can focus your attention and energy on a single room, making progress that is noticeable without feeling overwhelmed.
This method is great for little helpers, as they won’t be overwhelmed by the chaos or confusion caused by cleaning multiple areas at once. This allows them to contribute in small ways, such as tidying up toys or wiping surfaces. It also keeps their focus on one area.
Take a moment and appreciate the work you have done. Next, you can move to the next one on another day. It’s okay to take baby steps, even if you have a busy family.
3. Have the Kids Do Their Cleaning Jobs
It can be difficult to clean when there are kids around, especially if they are just underfoot or bored. You can turn things around by giving your kids a job when you’re cleaning.
It is important to include children in the process of cleaning. They love to feel useful and appreciated. Dusting can be made fun for toddlers by giving them a cloth or dusting mitt to use on shelves or tables.
Sorting the laundry by color, putting toys in bins, or wiping baseboards are all activities that older kids may enjoy. It helps to focus on a specific area of the room and keeps them from strewing clutter around.
What is the secret? You can make it fun for them and encourage their work. You could even create silly awards or stickers to reward good work. Cleaning becomes less of an issue when kids are involved and not just bystanders.
4. Parallel Play: Keep Kids Occupied While You Work
There are some spring cleaning tasks that you should do alone. For example, you may have to clean the windows or your oven. These tasks may require concentration or the use of chemicals that are not safe for children.
Parallel play is the magic parenting tool. While you are working, set up a play area or activity. You could use playdough or coloring books. Or you could do simple crafts. A screen-free, engaging activity keeps children occupied without interruption.
What is the benefit? Your child will feel involved just by being close to you. This helps to avoid the “Mom, what are you up to?” question every two minutes. You will get bonus points if you select a relaxing activity that can keep their attention for an extended period.
Teamwork with a dash of magic to save your sanity.
5. The Baby Carrier is a Great Way To Keep Your Baby Clean and Safe
You know that cleaning is more difficult when you have a baby around. Babies love to touch and explore everything. Sometimes can undo cleaning efforts quicker than you could wipe. What is the result? The result?
Babywearing is a great way to keep up momentum. You can carry your baby comfortably in a carrier or sling while you do the dishes. When your baby is around five months and can be comfortably carried on the back, you will have more time to clean.
With your baby snuggled against you, you can easily move about, clean, dust, or even sweep. This is a good way to keep them out of trouble and away from places where they shouldn’t go.
Babywearing also has calming effects. The closeness, warmth, and gentle movements help to keep babies happy, resulting in less fussing as you work. Win-win.
6. Get Your Cleaning Done By Dancing to Some Tunes
When all else fails, turn up the music. Music can instantly lift your mood and change the atmosphere of your home.
Music can energize chores and make them feel less like work. You can turn chores into a fun dance party for the kids. They will enjoy twirling dusters and singing while they wipe.
The music also sets a rhythm that helps you accomplish tasks more quickly. Parents swear by a “cleaning playlist” to get everyone motivated. You’ll be surprised at how much work you can accomplish when you are grooving along to your favorite tunes.
Even if they prefer to dance rather than clean, the most important thing is that you spend quality time with your family.
Every Day, A Little Bit Makes a Big Difference
Spring cleaning with children is easier if you are kind to yourself and realistic in your expectations. Progress is more important than perfection.
You can do a small amount each day, or set aside a few minutes when everyone is happy. Celebrate your wins, however small they may be. Remember that life with children is chaotic and messy.
Spring cleaning will be more fun for your family if you involve them, break down the tasks into smaller chunks, and keep the mood light. Along the way, you might discover moments of connection and laughter.
Grab that bucket and your favorite music, then turn your family cleaning mission into an adventure. You can do it!
