Just in time for spring-cleaning season, we’ve got the tips you need to keep your household tidy. We asked members of the Crossnore community for their best advice, because who knows more about cleaning than parents who clean up after 8 to 10 children? While cleaning may never be effortless, with these four great tips from our experts, the process will at lease be more manageable…and maybe even fun!
Nothing But Natural
“Natural products are always the best! Vinegar, Dawn dishwashing liquid, and baking soda are my go-to cleaning supplies that can clean bathrooms, the kitchen, floors, and windows all in one. The best part is it’s completely safe and that means even your little guys can get in on the fun of cleaning without the worry of harsh chemicals,” says Barbara Case, Assistant Director of Residential Life. Barbara was also a cottage parent for more than 15 years, so she knows a thing or two about cleaning!
Here’s Barbara’s favorite recipe:
1/3 cup of white vinegar
2/3 cup of water
1 T. of Dawn
Add the vinegar and water to a spray bottle. Add the Dawn last and do not shake.
School ’em on Scrubbing – with Specifics
“We teach our children how to clean, before assuming they automatically know how,” said Gloria Racine, Matthews Cottage parent. “Each child is given a chore aside from the expectation of keeping their room and the bathroom they use clean.”
Let the kids be involved but designate very specific tasks to them. Give clear, simple instructions…especially to younger children. Rather than saying, “clean the playroom,” direct them to “pick up the Legos and put them into this container.” With straightforward directions, the kids have clear parameters for success.
Pump Up the Jams
To make cleaning a positive activity, pair the chores with musical stimulation. When doing more physical activities (vacuuming, picking up toys), play upbeat music to keep everyone motivated and energized. For more sedentary tasks (sorting through papers, folding laundry), try a podcast or audiobook.
Set a Schedule
“Our cottages have to be inspection ready at all times. But with the busy schedule we have during the week, we don’t always have the chance to clean the cottage as thoroughly as it should be. Saturdays and Sundays are not as busy, so we take those days to deep clean. This includes dusting overhead lights, cleaning inside cabinets, and wiping down baseboards and heating vents. Then by Monday, we are ready to start off the week with a clean house,” suggests Gloria Racine.
You don’t have to be caring for eight children to be busy! Setting up a cleaning schedule for your home will help your little ones stay on task and keep your home in great shape.
Click HERE to download a list of supplies needed.
