by C.M. Tucker

Created on: February 05, 2007   Last Updated: October 11, 2011

There are multiple methods to motivate one to do cleaning chores.  Delegating, prioritizing, and clean as you go are basic ways to get domestic chores done faster.  Everything else is strategy.

1. Get a round piece of cardboard and draw lines across it to make 'pies'. In each pie, write a specific chore or group of related chores. Put a piece of wood block under the center of the cardboard and then drive a thick roofing nail through the exact center. The block can then be mounted as desired is a central location. Then take spring loaded cloths pins and write either names of the participants or some other variable, like days of the week maybe. Rotate the cloths pins once a week or so, at regular intervals.

2. Use forward or reverse lists or alternate between those two. Forward lists are sometimes discouraging due to over-listing of items to get done. A reverse list is where one writes down what gets done just after it's done. This is encouraging because it lends a sense of accomplishment, the results of which lends to better productivity.

3. Note the conditions when one does the chores most effectively. Then schedule that time of day or those conditions for doing chores. I prefer mornings and only if I am not dressed yet. I also like putting dishes in the washer just before bed in winter time because the water lines go through the bedroom where the hot water heats the bedroom a little bit.

4. Some chores can be done in-between others. If I am waiting on something in the microwave, then I wipe down the counter or filter some water, etc.

5. Set routines and stick to them. Routine allows a bit of auto-pilot, which reduces the boredom or tedium and reduces hesitation and stalling.

6. Use dance music while doing some chores. Dancing a bit during the cleaning process not only reduces boredom, but also serves as an exercise regimen which kills two birds with one stone.

7. Bundle similar chores or chores that are in one location.

8. Decide which chores are long-term and which are necessary for each day. Then schedule long term chores at regular intervals. Waiting for spring to do "spring cleaning" can prove overwhelming. Instead, use the seasons for specific long-term cleaning projects. Maybe the fridge could be done in spring, cleaning the chimney can be done in the fall along with shampooing the carpet, window cleaning in summer, etc.

9. Find ways to make cleaning easier. Examples include: Cooking only 3 times a week and eating leftovers the rest of the time. Clean from the top down, swipe crumbs off counter to the floor and then clean the floor. In a big house, store brooms and minor cleaning items in or near each section to save time. Install boot-scrapers and scruffy welcome mats outside each entrance. Everything should have it's own space to occupy without having to share that area with anything else.

10. Have simple and easy rules for the rest of the family to follow. For example: Everyone puts their dirty dishes in the sink by the end of each day or else pay the consequences. Consequences could be money in a jar that only you get to spend or it may be that they have to do whichever of your chores you want them to.

In summary, cleaning chores are handled best if: 1. one can reduce what has to be cleaned. 2. one can make the chores easier. 3. one can get the chores done faster. 4. and, if other family members pitch-in by cleaning up after themselves.

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