I vividly recall standing at the local library desk, checking out a large volume of books, each concerning the word “clean”.
The kind librarian offered a gentle smile and inquired,
“Are you planning to launch a cleaning service?”
No, that is not the case.
I was merely a dedicated housewife {long before Hollywood shaped the perception…}.
***
As a mother of three young boys, I was managing finances while juggling a house that seemed perpetually untidy despite constant cleaning efforts. These days with the boys were wonderfully tiring and precious.
My cluttered home was causing me to feel disorganized too…
So, I adopted a mission: finding a way to clean the house with maximum efficiency. That's why I had that towering stack of books at the library.
I found the research rewarding, realizing I shared this feeling of helplessness among other mothers. Happily, the books provided clear steps and strategies for improvement.
It brought me both hope and a workable strategy.
A guide from the founder of the Merry Maids Cleaning Company proved invaluable. Consider this: a maid can clean a house thoroughly in an hour or two with a weekly visit! That was my objective—to replicate that speed.
Back then, my husband would take our three little ones to the park weekly while I tested the methods from my reading.
***
Those three little boys are now teenagers. However, I still apply many of those rapid cleaning methods {especially when guests are expected…} Despite this being a lengthy piece, I want to share some of these tips with you.
1. Prepare for Success: This varies by individual, but dress in a way that boosts your mood. For me, this involves showering, styling my hair, applying makeup, and wearing something relaxed and comfortable. If my hair is messy and I’m in my pajamas, I’m likely just reading by the fire…
2. Define Clear Targets: Before starting, pinpoint precisely what you aim to achieve—one room or the entire residence? Whatever the final aim, segment it into manageable phases with a clear plan.
2. Act Swiftly: Once the plan is set, begin moving! Energetic music can provide motivation. I often set an extremely ambitious time goal and then see what I can accomplish. For example, making our bed only takes 3 minutes!
3. Complete One Zone Before Moving On: This is arguably the most vital advice. Do not let a new task distract you until the current one is finished. If you move a book from the kitchen to the living room bookcase, do not touch the bookcase until the kitchen is spotless! Otherwise, you risk endless, incomplete work.
4. Maintain Realism: Do not expect to scrub every nook and cranny in just one hour. {Nor should you expect peak cleaning performance while wearing high heels as shown above…} A recent magazine article contrasted the 'proper' (time-consuming) method with the 'clean enough' approach, which offered faster, equally effective solutions. My aim is not an unlivable perfection, because we actually reside here…
I appreciate the idea of keeping the house 'company ready' so unexpected visitors find everything in good order.
If you wish to see my home in a tidy state:
please arrange a time beforehand.
Rest assured—without question—I employ several of these swift cleaning techniques.
