Many times, when I am working with a “Chronically Disorganized” person, I find that they are not doing the chores in their home that are basic needs of a house. I’m not sure why these chores aren’t getting done and sometimes I have my suspicions. But bottom line, there is a reality to our living space and that reality is that we need to tend to chores in the house like dusting, vacuuming, cleaning the bathroom, doing laundry … need I go on?
After I discuss the necessity of doing chores in their house with my client, they express a level of frustration on how to begin setting a schedule so they can fit in these chores in an already busy schedule. So, I gladly help them create their family Chore Chart.
If you find that there truly is no time to do the necessary chores to maintain your house, then perhaps your schedules are too full, and you need to cut back on activities. Maintaining our health, our relationships and our homes must be top priority.
The list below might give you an idea what chores to do and how often to do them. Of course, every family is different and family needs can be different. But this might be a start.
Everyday Chores
Make your bed (yes, I’m really firm on this)
Clean your dishes from the day (at least before bed)
Wipe down kitchen counters
Wipe down bathroom counters
Laundry (if you have an abundance in your family)
Clean coffee maker
Wipe down shower walls (at a minimum rinse off the soap)
Weekly Chores
Dust furniture
Vacuum floors and carpets
Mop kitchen and bathroom floors
Clean bathroom fully
Wipe down inside microwave (if you use one – I don’t)
Clean mirrors
Go to grocery store
Clean out refrigerator and toss old food
Do laundry (if you can do in one day – I do)
Every Month Chores
Clean lights
Dust your blinds
Empty vacuum cleaner bag
Wipe down dishwasher
Wipe down washer & dryer
3 – 6 Month Chores
Clean out your heating vents
Clean out your freezer
Wipe down inside your refrigerator
Vacuum mattresses
Wash pillows, mattress covers and quilts
Wipe down your outside furniture (Spring, Summer, Fall)
Clean your oven
Clean coffee maker with some water & vinegar
Clean your stove vent
Yearly Chores
Clear out gutters (especially in fall where leaves fall)
Clean windows
Clean out your fireplace/chimney
Professionally have your dryer vents cleaned out (fire hazard if you don’t)
Clean curtains
Shampoo carpets
Shampoo upholstered furniture
Power wash outside of house and sidewalks
Now if you have children, I highly recommend you get them involved in participating in chores. Anyone that lives in the house should take part in the maintenance of their home. It’s not only mom’s job or mom and dad’s job. It’s everyone who lives there and a 3-4-year-old can help with something.
I have a simple Chore Chart that I give my clients when needed and would be happy to send one to you. Just reply to this message.
Put a Chore schedule in place and then follow it. Creating one and not taking action is only a waste of time.
Remember I’m here if you need help. Not need to is too big or too small.
Your Health, Wellness & Organizational Coach … believing in you!