42 – Habits to Help You Spend Less Time on Cleaning and Chores

Household chores can feel like an endless loop, but cultivating a few smart habits can significantly reduce the time and effort spent on cleaning. Here are practical strategies to keep your home tidy without dedicating your life to it.

1. Declutter and Embrace Minimalism

The more you own, the more you clean. Avoid accumulating unnecessary items by being mindful of what you bring into your home. After shopping, get rid of packaging immediately instead of letting it pile up. Ensure every item has a designated spot. If something is always “in the way,” consider whether you truly need it.

2. Tidy as You Go

Adopt the “clean-as-you-go” mindset. Wash dishes right after eating instead of leaving them to pile up. Return items to their designated spots as soon as you’re done using them. This prevents clutter from building up and keeps your space orderly.

3. Batch Your Chores

Instead of spreading chores throughout the week, dedicate specific days to specific tasks. For example, designate one day as laundry day. Washing and folding in bulk is much more efficient than doing small loads multiple times.

4. Rewear When Appropriate

Not every piece of clothing needs washing after one use. Jeans, jackets, and even some tops can be worn a few times before hitting the laundry basket. This reduces both your laundry workload and energy consumption.

5. Designate Zones for Specific Items

Create a toy area for kids and enforce boundaries—no wandering toys! This principle applies to adult spaces too: keys, mail, shoes, and other items should always return to their “home” to prevent random clutter.

6. Invest in Time-Saving Tools

Robotic vacuums are a lifesaver, especially if you have pets. They keep fur and dirt under control with minimal effort on your part. Similarly, a dishwasher or high-quality mop can drastically cut down your cleaning time.

7. Schedule a Weekly Cleaning Day

Set aside one day a week for a deeper clean or arrange for a cleaning service to handle it. Knowing there’s a set time for this prevents you from stressing about chores piling up.

8. Adopt a “One-In, One-Out” Rule

For every new item you bring into your home, get rid of something old. This habit keeps your belongings manageable and your storage spaces clutter-free.

9. Simplify Daily Habits

Keep your shoes by the door to minimize dirt tracked inside. Use a bathroom squeegee to quickly wipe down shower walls after use, reducing the need for deep scrubbing later.

By incorporating these habits into your routine, you’ll find your home stays cleaner with less effort – leaving you with more time to enjoy life!