Hello our Clean Freak Family! Happy Cleaning Tuesday!

We’re Back from vacation and ready to get Cleaning!

Where does a Clean Freak go on vacation? More on that in just a moment!

Before that however, Are you tired of playing hide-and-seek with your belongings in your own home?

It's time to unleash your inner home organizing guru and bring serenity and calm tranquility to your life and living space!

With a healthy dose of order… Imagine your shoes lined up in perfect harmony, your junk drawer completely organized and your pantry items color coded?

Trust us, with a sprinkle of humor and a pinch of determination, you can transform your home into the epitome of organized chaos (the good kind, of course).

Let the adventures in organizing begin!

//Picture!

1. Prioritize!

Ah, the art of prioritizing before organizing. As we stare at the cluttered chaos, for some of us, we start to feel overwhelmed.

Also, we have a number of readers who are struggling with disabilities and/or other difficult situations that can make ‘getting started’ seem like an impossible task.

So where do you Start?

1. Set realistic goals: Be realistic about what you can accomplish within a given timeframe. Avoid overwhelming yourself with an excessive number of tasks or setting unrealistic expectations. Set achievable goals that align with your available time, energy, and resources. Celebrate your accomplishments along the way, as this will boost your motivation and keep you inspired to continue your organizing journey.

2. Assess and categorize: Start by evaluating the different areas and rooms in your home. Identify the spaces that need the most attention and prioritize them accordingly. Categorize your belongings into groups such as essentials, sentimental items, and things you can donate or discard. This will allow you to focus on what truly matters and streamline your organizing process.

3. Utilize the 80/20 rule: Apply the 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto Principle, to your organizing efforts. Identify the 20% of your belongings that contribute to 80% of the clutter or disarray in your home. Prioritize decluttering and organizing these items first, as they have the most significant impact on your living space. This principle helps you focus your energy on the areas that will bring about the most noticeable improvements.

Remember, prioritizing your organizing tasks is a personal journey. Do your best to keep a positive mindset, and watch as your home transforms into an organized haven!

2. Organize, Organize, Organize!

With these practical strategies, you'll be able to transform your living space into a clutter-free haven of tranquility.

Tip 1: Declutter Regularly The first step towards an organized home is decluttering. Take the time to sort through your belongings and identify items you no longer need or use. Donate or sell them to reduce the overall clutter. Remember, the less you own, the easier it is to keep your space organized.

Tip 2: Establish Zones and Storage Solutions Create dedicated zones for different activities or items in your home. Whether it's a designated spot for keys and mail near the entrance or a specific shelf for kitchen gadgets, assigning a place for everything helps you maintain order. Invest in practical storage solutions like shelves, baskets, and drawer organizers to keep things tidy and accessible.

Tip 3: Maximize Vertical Space Utilize your vertical space to maximize storage potential. Install wall-mounted shelves or hooks to keep frequently used items within reach. Consider using over-the-door organizers or hanging racks for shoes, accessories, or cleaning supplies. Vertical storage is an excellent way to make the most of limited space.

Tip 4: Implement a Regular Cleaning Routine A clean home is an organized home. Establish a regular cleaning routine that suits your lifestyle. Schedule specific days for tasks like dusting, vacuuming, and mopping. Make sure to include decluttering as part of your routine to prevent clutter from building up again.

Tip 5: Label and Categorize Labeling and categorizing are powerful tools for maintaining order in your home. Use labels on storage containers, boxes, and shelves to identify the contents. Categorize similar items together, such as grouping kitchen utensils or arranging clothes by type. This method not only adds visual clarity but also makes it easier to find what you need quickly.

Remember, organizing your home is an ongoing process. It requires consistent effort and dedication. Start small, tackle one room or area at a time, and celebrate your progress along the way.

3. Sanitize!

By following these tips, you can enjoy a well-organized and hygienic home that promotes a sense of calm and well-being!

Kitchen

1. Start with the Basics: Begin by thoroughly cleaning your kitchen countertops, cutting boards, and utensils before and after each use. Use hot, soapy water to wash away any food residue, and consider using separate cutting boards for raw meats and fresh produce to prevent cross-contamination.

2. Embrace Natural Solutions: Incorporate natural sanitizing solutions into your cleaning routine. For instance, vinegar is a powerful and versatile kitchen cleaner. Dilute it with water and use it to wipe down surfaces and deodorize your garbage disposal.

3. Maintain a Clean Sink: Your kitchen sink can harbor bacteria and become a breeding ground for germs. Clean and disinfect it regularly using a mixture of hot water and mild soap. Pay attention to the faucet handles, drain, and any sponges or dishcloths you use.

Bathroom

Gather Your Cleaning Arsenal

Before tackling the task at hand, it's important to arm yourself with the right tools and products. Here's a list of essentials:

• All-purpose cleaner: Opt for one that kills germs effectively.

• Disinfectant wipes: Perfect for quick touch-ups and wiping down surfaces.

• Toilet bowl cleaner: Look for one with powerful disinfecting properties.

• Glass cleaner: Essential for mirrors and glass surfaces.

• Scrub brushes, sponges, and microfiber cloths: Your trusty sidekicks for scrubbing and wiping.

A Methodical Approach: Step-by-Step Sanitization

a. Tackling the Toilet: Start with the throne! Apply your chosen toilet bowl cleaner, scrub diligently (don't forget under the rim), and flush away the grime. Wipe the exterior with a disinfectant wipe or a cloth soaked in all-purpose cleaner.

b. Mirrors and Surfaces: Grab your glass cleaner and wipe down all mirrors, countertops, and other surfaces. Ensure a streak-free shine, leaving no smudges behind.

c. Sanitize the Sink: Wipe down the sink and its fixtures with an all-purpose cleaner or a disinfectant wipe. Pay attention to the faucet, drain, and any stains that may have appeared over time.

4. Revitalize!

Ah, the joy of revitalizing your living space!

You walk in, and the atmosphere practically hums with calm tidiness.

And the best part?

The bliss of an organized home extends beyond what we see and smell. It brings a sense of real peace and tranquility, a sanctuary of serenity in a chaotic world. You can indulge in guilt-free relaxation, knowing that everything is in order, and revel in the satisfaction of finding solace amidst the symphony of tidiness. So, embrace the joys of an organized home, my Fellow Clean Freak and let the harmonious celebration of cleanliness begin!

We hope these tips inspire you to create a harmonious and organized living space. Stay tuned for more home organization tips and tricks in our upcoming newsletters. Until then, happy organizing!

Where do Clean Freaks go for Vacation?

This past week I had the amazing privilege to visit the World Headquarters of P&G in Cincinnati. I was able to talk to some of the worlds foremost Experts on the Science of Odor Control!

//pic of Brandon in Lab Coat

I will be sharing some of what I learned in an upcoming Clean Freak Weekly!

If you are wondering where to find the products we like to use, we put together a full list for you on Amazon.

Amazon Cleaning Supply List: Click HERE to check it out! 

Thanks so much for joining us, see you next week!

💚 Brandon and James

P.S. If you're new here and want to catch up on previous editions of the Clean Freak Weekly you can find them here!

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