Seriously, what is the difference between cleaning vs. organizing?
Cleaning
Definition: to be free from dirt, marks, unwanted matter
Tools: brooms, mops, cleaning products, duster
Activities: sweep, mop, dust, scrub
Profession: maid, cleaner
Organizing
Definition: arrange into a structured whole
Tools: labels, storage containers, bins, baskets, garbage bags
Activities: declutter, donate, make a home for each item, store items by category, set up a system around a daily routine
Profession: home organizer, professional organizer, office organizer, residential organizer, commercial organizer
How are cleaning and organizing related?
- Without good organization it is impossible to clean properly.
- Thorough cleaning routines are only possible by having an organized home.
- Typically it is recommend to organize first and then clean second or as you go.
What are a couple feasible home cleaning resolutions that you suggest people keep in the new year?
- Stop buying different cleaning solutions.
- The simple way to be clean and tidy while staying minimalist is to use 2-3 products throughout the home.
- Distilled vinegar: a natural antiseptic that can be used on hardwood floors, counters, and surfaces
- Bleach: for deep cleaning showers, bath tubs, bathroom sinks, kitchen sinks
- Windex: for glass and windows
- Use reusable glass spray bottles with labels. Cleaning solutions can look nice without causing visual clutter from plastic and loud store bought labels. You also have just what you need to stay clean, tidy, and minimalist.
What are your tips for actually achieving cleaning resolutions and maintaining a clean home?
- Set aside intentional time. Instead of “I should clean.” Say, “I will clean all surfaces and floors every Sunday morning after breakfast.” When we are specific about the way we spend our time, we are much more likely to finish the task and keep ourselves accountable.
- Create a cleaning chore list if you have multiple people in your household. Everyone will know what their chore is each week/day/month/etc.
- I highly recommend using an allowance to motivate kids to clean and/or tidy up. Money is a great motivator to help kids learn and practice healthy habits. It also allows them to show responsibility and learn how to manage/utilize personal money at an early age.
Why are cleaning resolutions important to keep (or why not)?
- Tidying and cleaning go hand in hand. When both are in line it makes life easier and more streamlined.
- A clean space is a clean mind.
- Cleaning teaches us how to care for ourselves and our environment.
- Cleaning is an essential habit that impacts our health both physically, mentally, and professionally.
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The dictionary definitions from this blog post were sourced from the dictionary definition by mission to organize.