I often get asked how my home stays so tidy, especially with kids running around. The truth is, it’s not magic or a superhuman effort—just a few simple things I do every day to keep things in order. Don’t get me wrong; our home is lived in, and mess is definitely part of the package. But I’ve found that sticking to a routine helps me stay on top of things, so the chaos doesn’t completely take over. It’s all about finding that balance between enjoying life and maintaining some sense of order.
1. Make Your Bed
Trust me, it does make a difference!. Starting the day by making your bed sets a positive tone. It instantly makes the bedroom look tidy and gives me a small win before I even leave the room. Plus, there’s nothing better than getting into a neatly made bed at the end of a long day.
2. Quick Kitchen Cleanup
Before I head out for school drop-offs, after the kids have enjoyed their hot breakfast and turned the kitchen into a mini mess, I take a few minutes to wipe down the counters, put away any dishes, and start the dishwasher if needed. I make sure the sink is clear so it’s ready for the rest of the day’s meals. A clean kitchen keeps me in a good mood, especially since it’s the heart of our home, and it’s nice to come back to a tidy space after the morning rush.
3. Laundry Load a Day
Laundry can pile up quickly, so I do one load every day. Whether it’s clothes, towels, or bedding, staying on top of it prevents the dreaded laundry mountain. I put the load on in the morning and try to fold it and put it away before bedtime.
4. Daily House Sweep/Vacuum
I do a quick sweep or vacuum of the living areas almost daily. I absolutely love my Roborock, which takes care of the vacuuming for me. It’s perfectly okay to take advantage of available tech! On days I’m not using my big vacuum, I turn on the Roborock before leaving the house. It’s a great way to keep on top of things and ensures I come back to a clean floor after the morning rush.
5. Evening Kitchen Reset
After dinner, I like to do a final kitchen cleanup. I load the dishwasher, wipe down the counters, and take out the trash if it’s full. This way, I wake up to a fresh, clean kitchen, which makes the morning routine smoother.
6. Nightly House Reset
Before heading to bed, I do one last sweep of the house. I pick up anything that’s out of place, fold any blankets on the couch, and make sure the house is generally in order. I also get the kids involved, having them pick up and put away their toys, books, and anything else they’ve left around. It’s a calming way to end the day and ensures I’m not waking up to chaos the next morning. Plus, it teaches the kids the importance of tidying up after themselves.
7. Declutter Frequently
Finally, I make it a habit to declutter frequently. Every day, I aim to get rid of something we no longer need. Whether it’s old books, a toy the kids have outgrown, or that kitchen gadget that’s just collecting dust, letting go of items we don’t use keeps the house from getting cluttered.
These daily habits don’t take up much time, but they make a huge difference in keeping the house tidy. It’s all about creating routines that work for you and your family, so the cleaning doesn’t feel like a constant chore. And remember, a tidy house is a work in progress, especially with kids in the mix—so don’t stress about perfection!