I’m finally doing it y’all. This girl is making a cleaning schedule and gonna try and stick to it!!!! Can you sense the enthusiasm in my voice? Truly Chance has been asking me to commit to a cleaning schedule since we moved in together almost five years ago.

I remember when I was 22, I visited a friend and her then-live-in boyfriend for the weekend. I was leaving that Sunday to head home and they were making their weekly grocery list and planning their meals, and I thought, “that is my worst nightmare.”

I don't know why? It seems ridiculous now but it absolutely terrified me to know exactly what my Sundays would entail for the rest of eternity. I’m an all or nothing girl, and the idea of setting strict routines has made me feel…claustrophobic? Boxed in and unable to evolve.

Now, almost eight years later, on the edge of 30, with a husband and a baby on the way, I’m finding less and less time in the day to pick up as I go. My neurodivergence doesn’t help. So, I’m gonna try a cleaning schedule. *GASP*

My Attempt At A Cleaning Schedule

Mondays: Primary Bedroom

I figure starting with the place where I spend most of my time is a good idea. A tidy bedroom is conducive to a peaceful sleep, and fresh sheets? Well, that’s just a slice of heaven. It’s time to create a sanctuary for myself and the little one on the way.

• wash bed sheets

• clean + wipe down night stands

• clean + wipe down dresser

• clean + wipe down vanity

• tidy closet

• vacuum floors

• empty trash can

• put away clean clothes

Tuesdays: Living/Dining + Vacuum Rugs

The communal spaces are where memories are made, and also where the most mess happens. Cleaning up the living and dining areas will not only create a more inviting atmosphere but also ensure we have a clean space to entertain friends and family. Plus, vacuuming rugs is like giving the floor a little spa day.

• dust surfaces

• wipe down coffee + dining table

• clean coffee bar

• vacuum floor + rugs

• mop hardwoods

• de-fur couch + pillows

• tidy back door entryway

• pick up + spray dog toys

Wednesdays: Bathrooms

Let’s face it, no one likes a dirty bathroom. I'm committing to a mid-week bathroom clean to keep things fresh and hygienic. It might not be the most glamorous task, but a clean bathroom is a game-changer.

• wipe down mirrors

• clean toilets

• clean showers and bathtub

• straighten inside of cabinets empty trash

• swap towels

• vacuum bath mats

• sweep and mop

Thursdays: Guest Bedroom + Office

Since these rooms aren’t used as frequently, it's easy for clutter to accumulate. By dedicating a specific day to tidy up the guest bedroom and office, I'm ensuring these spaces are always ready for unexpected visitors or last-minute deadlines.

• dust surfaces

• empty trash cans

• water plants

• vacuum floors

• tidy desk

Fridays: Kitchen

The heart of the home deserves a special day. Friday is all about tackling the kitchen, ensuring it’s spick and span for the weekend. A clean kitchen not only sets the tone for a relaxing weekend but also makes cooking more enjoyable.

• wipe down appliances

• clean sink

• spot clean cabinets

• clean microwave

• tidy pantry + toss expired stuff

• wipe down counters

• vacuum rug + mop

• tidy fridge + freezer

• clean ice maker

So, why the change of heart after all these years? Well, life happened. As responsibilities grew, so did the need for a bit of order. And honestly, with a baby on the way, the idea of a clean and organized home feels like a warm hug in itself.

I’m approaching this cleaning schedule with an open mind. It's not about confining myself to rigid routines; it's about creating a harmonious environment for my growing family. Plus, breaking it down into manageable tasks throughout the week makes it feel less overwhelming.

Daily Tasks To Complete

In addition to my weekly cleaning schedule, I've decided to incorporate a few daily tasks into my routine. These small but impactful habits aim to maintain a consistent level of cleanliness throughout the week, making the larger cleaning sessions less daunting. Here's what I'm adding to my daily checklist:

• Make Bed: Starting the day with a well-made bed sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. It takes only a few minutes but can make a world of difference in the overall appearance of the bedroom. Plus, there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of coming home to a neatly arranged bed.

• Load/Unload Dishes: The kitchen is the heart of the home, and maintaining a clean and organized space is crucial. Loading and unloading the dishwasher daily ensures that dirty dishes don't pile up, making meal preparation more efficient and the kitchen always ready for use.

• 1 Load of Laundry: With a baby on the way, staying on top of the laundry is more important than ever. Doing one load each day prevents laundry from becoming an overwhelming mountain of clothes. It's a simple and effective way to keep our clothes, linens, and baby items clean and ready for use.

• Clear Primary Bathroom Counter: A clutter-free bathroom counter not only looks better but also streamlines my morning and evening routines. Taking a moment each day to put away toiletries and clear any unnecessary items ensures that the primary bathroom stays tidy and welcoming.

• Close Living Room and Kitchen: Before calling it a day, I'm committing to closing down the living room and kitchen. This involves tidying up any stray items, fluffing pillows, and ensuring that the kitchen is in a state that welcomes me in the morning. It's a simple act that contributes to the overall sense of order in our home.

By incorporating these daily tasks into my routine, I'm hoping to strike a balance between maintaining a clean and organized living space without feeling overwhelmed by chores. Consistency is key, and these small efforts each day will contribute to the overall success of my cleaning schedule.

I invite you to join me on this journey to domestic bliss in 2024. Let’s prove that cleaning schedules aren’t the enemy, but rather a tool to make our lives a bit more organized and enjoyable. I made a fun print-out to keep us on track. I have mine on our fridge to remind me every single day.

Who knows, we might discover a sense of satisfaction in the midst of clean countertops and freshly vacuumed rugs. Cheers to a cleaner, happier home!