Nothing ruins a weekend like stacks of dishes or a mountain of laundry. It’s fine to let things pile up during the week, but if left unattended, small messes can really mess with weekend plans. I’ve found the easiest way to resolve this predicament is by cutting corners. Over the years, I’ve discovered a few tricks that get the job done, even if the Merry Maids think I’m cheating.
I bust out these gems whenever I’m feeling particularly sloth-like. They make me feel like I’m living in a pristine show home even though I haven’t been as thorough as I could be. Try them out for yourself!
Kitchen duty usually requires the most effort. I’ve learned that it’s simpler to only buy dishes, utensils and stemware that can go in the dishwasher. Everything else requires way too much upkeep. Who can be bothered with polishing silver or paying special attention to cast iron skillets? Not this girl.
In the bathroom, which might just be the grossest part of any home, I’ve perfected the art of cleaning the shower while I’m in it. All it takes is some coordination and a rubber bath mat – no one wants to slip while they’re vigorously scrubbing away soap scum.
Which brings me to my next trick: shower gel. Supposedly, it doesn’t scum up the shower as much as regular soaps or body washes. Stock up on gels to spare your knees an hour leaning over the tub.
When cleaning your bedroom, take a cue from feng shui practitioners. Potted plants are known to boost indoor air quality, so set one on your dresser to diffuse musty smells. Hey, if a plant can thrive in there, the room can’t be that dirty. Right?
Additionally, you can save time in the morning by making your bed while you’re in it. One side of my bed is against a wall, and I can’t tell you how much easier it’s been to just make my bed while I’m in it, instead of trying to cram sheets between the edge of the bed and the wall. Check out this neat method for doing it here.
Because you’re attacking a relatively large area, outdoor maintenance is probably the most time-consuming. My trick isn’t really a trick at all – I usually just let things grow. I’m not a huge fan of the uber-manicured lawn, so this works for me. And, it’s much easier to pretend I live in a jungle than weed the garden. I may need to purchase a hacksaw to clear a path to my car, but I’m not really seeing the downside to that.
There are also a few other ways I clean without expelling much energy. I kindly tell visitors to take off their shoes upon entry. And, I’ve put those soft drugstore socks to good use by wearing them to sweep the floor. I’ve aptly named them Swiffer socks. (Swiffer, call me!)
But my most important trick is this: know when it’s time to haul in the big guns. If you’re having trouble breathing due to noxious fumes emanating from your garbage, or have woodland creatures prancing around your living room, it’s probably time to hire a pro.
What tricks do you use when you’re in a crunch to clean?
Suzanne De Vita is RISMedia’s Online Associate Editor and social butterfly. She “cleans up shop” by Cloroxing her TV remote and shooting dirty sock free throws.
