Keeping things tidy as you go, so you have more time for the good moments at home – it sounds too good to be true. But it isn't. Everyday juggler and mum Norma Schönmeier (@ordnungnebenbei) shows us how it's done.
- Daily routines
- Eat the frog
- A fixed place
- Use small windows of time
- The one-touch rule
- Storage systems
Daily routines
This is one of the most effective methods for keeping things tidy in the long term, because a big mess never gets the chance to build up. Start your day with a morning routine, such as airing the rooms, making the bed and a quick tidy-up. Your evening routine could include laying out clothes for the next day, leaving the kitchen clean and another quick tidy-up.
Eat the frog
Don't put off the unpleasant jobs. Always tackle the least appealing task first – ideally first thing in the morning. Once it's off your plate, you'll feel more relaxed and motivated.
A fixed place
Give everything a fixed place and always put it straight back there. That way, you can find things immediately and stay organised even on hectic days. You'll also save time – not just on tidying, but on searching too.
Use small windows of time
In everyday life, you rarely have several hours to spare in one go. So it pays to use small windows of 5 or 10 minutes for household to-dos. Many tasks don't take long at all: cleaning the toilet takes 3 minutes, emptying the dishwasher 5 minutes and changing the bed linen 10 minutes.
The one-touch rule
This tip is wonderfully simple: put things back in their place straight after using them.
Storage systems
Use storage helpers such as boxes, baskets and crates. They make it easier to sort, categorise, tidy away and neatly store your things. Storage systems also help you make the most of the space you have.
Feeling motivated? Have fun trying these tips – and enjoy the time you save.
