What's your cleaning routine?

One of the biggest shocks in my move from a four-room apartment (including the kitchen) to a three bedroom semi, other than actually having all that space and the time to unpack, is the sheer quantity of cleaning required to keep it looking all sparkly and organized.

Now, of course, we already know that cleaning is sexy. And, January was Get Organized month (check out our tips for purging, whipping your closet into shape in 10 minutes, busting clutter, getting organized, and how to overcome common clutter issues), so many of us at least sought to tackle that common resolution.

But now that we're into February, the real challenge is keeping it up.

After a few too many pre-brunch cleaning frenzies, I resolved to be a better housekeeper in 2010.

It turns out the only way I can keep up is to break up all those tasks into chunks and stick to a schedule: tidy on Monday, dust Tuesday, tackle the floors on Wednesday and Thursday, and do the kitchen and bathroom Friday or Saturday morning (unless I find time earlier in the week). And, on a daily basis, keep up with the dishes, make the bed, and other routine tasks.

The good news is that now I'm always a few minutes away from being able to entertain guests, and I no longer am faced with those daunting, hours-long cleaning marathons on weekends. I'm even multi-tasking, like dusting and sweeping while on the phone, which means I'm actually working my way through my seemingly never-ending to-do list.

The bad news: It's week three, and I'm already bored with my routine. I know that by cranking the tunes and doing these chores regularly, it actually does cut down on the amount of time I need to spend cleaning each week. But staying motivated is another trick entirely!

So, I'm asking you to please share your cleaning routines and tips to help me keep my resolution!

And, for a little inspiration - and reassurance that you're really not doing so bad - check out our tips from How Clean is Your House.

Comments

[Renee]

Procrastinate, procrastinate, procrastinate, then get so fed up I go on a cleaning binge.

Realistically, I try to clean as I go - I cook, I clean as I go instead of at the end. In the bathroom I try to wipe down the counter and the mirror after each use. I don't always do it, but it's better than leaving it then forcing yourself to do three hours worth of cleaning at any one time.

[TransCanada Rentals]

I clean as I go. I hate devoting an entire day (or numerous hours), to cleaning. Or worse yet, an entire Saturday.

I spill something, I wipe it up. I spot dirt on the floor, I sweep it up. Toilet is looking a little grubby, I have all the appropriate cleaners right next to it so I can give it a quick clean. Actually, throughout my home, you will find relevant cleaning products/accessories for the respective areas.

I am by no means neurotic. Each time I do a little wipe/tidy/sweep/scrub, takes no longer than 2 minutes (an average). Keeps me active and motivated. And I don't have to write-off an entire day.

[SBQS]

Hi Editor Jennifer,
I just read the article "Ottawa urged to carefully tighten mortgage rules" In it, your journalist writes about the opinions of various economists regarding mortgage rules. All economists quoted work for companies that are mortgage lenders. This creates a conflict of interest for these economists. Not saying they shouldn't be quoted , but balanced journalism would require your journalist to also solicit opinions from other economists who don't have this conflict of interest. Since that didn't happen the journalistic integrity of the articles for which you are editor is poor. This reflects poorly on not only your employer, but also you. One might reasonably assume that you don't follow the tenets of journalism, don't ensure that your staff are making the effort to source differing opinions and don't review their submissions as a competent, ethical and professional Editor should. Something to consider in the future.