1 of 12

Write now Article Tools

The 15 minute rule is the best way to keep on top of our daily domestic chores. This is a concept that I learned while at a homeschooling seminar. The speaker applied it to cooking, but I found that it is quite useful for other purposes. Cleaning, of course, being one of them.

In the past, I would not tackle a chore unless I had time to finish it. Without children this concept worked fine, but once my four little bambinos came along, finishing anything became a challenge. I found myself not being able to get anything done or started for that matter because I did not have enough time.

Now, I look at chores and break them up into segments. Instead of trying to dust, clean glass, and vacuum the living room all in one sitting, I dust for 15 minutes then I stop. Then, when I have another elapse of time available, I clean the glass. I continue this method until the living room looks cleaned.

To further illustrate, my sons will be getting ready to leave for soccer practice and we have about 10 minutes before we have to be out the door. While they are getting their water bottles, cleats and shin-guards on, I will realize I have a few minutes to spare and go up to the bathroom to wash the sink and toilet. The floor and tub will just have to wait, but at least it will look better than it did.

The 15 minute rule helps me to keep my house clean, cook well-balanced meals, and even work on my landscaping. This concept has even produced a good attitude in my sons. When I was little, my mother would clean all day on Saturdays causing me to dread the weekend. However, in this family, we clean a little, we play a little which makes for a more balanced, happy home.

Learn more about this author, Michelle Burkhardt.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to do domestic chores faster?
We want to hear your view. Write now!