This post is sponsored by Kimberly-Clark and The Motherhood. All opinions are my own.
Can I just say that I LOVE that Spring is finally upon us. I am not a cold weather girl so as soon as I start seeing signs of spring, it makes me very happy. One of the first signs of spring we saw at our house was tulip buds poking out of the dirt. I love seeing those for the first time. Spring is one of my favorite times of year, not only because of the amazing weather, but because of Spring Cleaning. I know, I know, not everyone loves Spring Cleaning. I don't necessarily LOVE to clean, I just love taking the time to organize, down size and start the season out de-cluttered.
Spring is a REALLY busy season for us, though. This is the time of year that we have our Spring play performances, baseball and softball start up and we have dance competitions. This doesn't include the normally activities that go year round, like girl scouts and boy scouts. So when it comes time to Spring Clean, I have to find ways to realistically get everything done that I need to get done while short on time. I've made up a list of 4 ways to make Spring Cleaning easier When You're Short on Time.
- Set realistic expectations. If you start your Spring Cleaning out feeling like you have to do it all, and all at once, you will fail. Its just way to overwhelming. I am a list girl. I have found that if I make a Spring Cleaning To-Do list where I break down exactly what I want to get done in more manageable sizes, it will more likely get done. You can also break your list down by day if that is easier for you. I find that the Spring Cleaning activities like going through old clothes, or toys may spread through multiple days. If you recognize this ahead of time and make your expectations realistic, you will get more done in a short amount of time.
- Stock up on all your needed supplies. I find all of my Viva®, Cottonelle® and Scott® products at Walmart. I like to have everything on hand, so I don't run out when I am in the middle of a project. I find that my Viva® Big Roll Paper Towels are one of the most important products to keep on hand, because whether we are cleaning windows, counter tops, bookshelves or floors, this is the product that we use most. I go right to the Viva® Vantage® 12 roll packs because I know that they will get used. This is also a good time to stock your pantry up and supplies that you will be using year round. We make it a priority to stock up on Scott® 1000 bathroom tissues so we always have them on hand.
- Enlist your family for help. You can't do it all alone. Especially when you are busy. You will be surprised at how eager your kids will be to help you on some of their favorite projects. Windows being the favorite in our home! The more hands you get on deck- the more you can get done in a short amount of time. I saw a meme on facebook recently that mentioned if your child knows how to run an iPaD, they are old enough to help clean! I am able to find jobs that are age appropriate for my 4 year old up to my 13 year old. Crank up the music and make Spring Cleaning a family affair!
4. Put together a cleaning caddy filled with all of your essential cleaning supplies. Don't forget your Viva® Paper Towels because you'll need them in every room! Having a Caddy that is always put together and ready saves you so much time. You always know that you have everything you need all in one place. When you are done cleaning, make sure and re-fill and store under your bathroom or kitchen cabinet so you can easily find it when you need it next. I have found that my kids get really excited when they get assigned a chore with the caddy. I guess there is something extra official about putting on the rubber gloves and getting to clean. We've even had the older kids clean toilets with no complaints!
Spring Cleaning can be an activity that you can look forward to if you plan ahead. Being prepared, stocking up and getting your time organized can make it a stress-free productive season. Stocking up on all your favorites, like Viva®, Cottonelle® and Scott® products, available at Walmart, will help you to create a clean and organized environment.
Hi, my name is Melissa! I live in Spanish Fork, Utah. I'm happily married to Rob, and together we have five wonderful kids. Our family loves to embark on adventures, often in our RV, exploring the great outdoors. I'm an avid reader and a big fan of Hallmark movies – they always have a way of lifting my spirits. Hiking is another passion of mine; there's nothing like the tranquility of nature. I have a sweet tooth for chocolate and a love for Mexican food, both of which make life a little more delicious. In my downtime, I enjoy playing games with my family, creating memories and sharing laughter. Life is an adventure, and I'm here to enjoy every moment of it! I'm the blogger and creative mind behind the blog A Sparkle of Genius! Check out our posts on recipes, crafts, kid stuff, printables, travel and more!