How to Stay Motivated to Keep Up With Your Cleaning Routine

Cleaning, whether it's your home, workspace, or any other environment, is a chore that most of us face at some point. But what if you could turn cleaning into a motivated and satisfying task? 

Learn practical tips and methods to make cleaning not just bearable but enjoyable. Whether you're a cleaning enthusiast or find it daunting, you'll discover fresh ideas to keep you motivated to stick to your cleaning routines.

Understanding the Major Types of Motivation

Intrinsic Motivation 

Intrinsic motivation is the internal drive to engage in an activity because it is inherently rewarding. When it comes to cleaning, this means finding pleasure in the process itself. For instance, some people enjoy the therapeutic effects of tidying up their space, making it a form of self-care.

Extrinsic Motivation

Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, arises from external factors such as rewards, recognition, or avoiding punishment. In a cleaning context, extrinsic motivation could be the satisfaction of having a spotless home when guests arrive or the promise of a treat after the chores are done.

Combining Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation

The most effective motivation often combines intrinsic and extrinsic factors. For example, you might intrinsically enjoy the act of cleaning while also rewarding yourself with something pleasant when the task is completed. Let's delve into tips and strategies to motivate yourself to clean, combining both types of motivation to achieve an inviting living space.

Tips to Motivate Yourself to Clean

• Set Goals: 

Start with clear, achievable cleaning goals. A specific objective, like decluttering your closet or deep cleaning the kitchen, can keep you motivated.

Pro Tip: Write down your goals and create a timeline to track your progress.

• Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: 

Large cleaning projects can be daunting. Divide them into smaller, manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Pro Tip: Use a task management app or checklist to organize your cleaning tasks.

• Clean "One Room at a Time": 

Focus on cleaning one room thoroughly before moving to the next. This approach provides a sense of accomplishment.

Pro Tip:  Discover our checklists for cleaning the kitchen, bedroom, living room, and bathroom.

• Create a Cleaning Schedule: 

Establish a cleaning schedule or routine that suits your lifestyle. Regular schedules make it easier to stay motivated.

Pro Tip: Set specific days and times for cleaning to create a consistent routine.

• Use a Checklist: 

Create a cleaning checklist. Checking off completed tasks provides a sense of achievement.

Pro Tip: Add checkboxes next to each task on your list to visually track your progress.

• Employ Positive Reinforcement:

Reward yourself after each cleaning session with something you enjoy, like a cup of tea or a short break.

Pro Tip: Choose rewards that genuinely motivate you and keep them readily available.

• Listen to Music or Podcasts While Cleaning:

Transform idle listening time into productive cleaning moments by playing your favorite tunes or educational podcasts.

Pro Tip: Create cleaning playlists with upbeat music to energize your cleaning sessions.

How to Develop Better Cleaning Habits

• Have the Family Join In: 

Making cleaning a family affair can help the work go by faster, as well as instill important cleaning routines in children and adolescents.

Pro Tip: Find child-friendly chores for kids to incorporate into their daily or weekly routines.

• Set a Timer: 

Challenge yourself to complete tasks within a specific time frame. It adds a sense of urgency to cleaning.

Pro Tip: Use timers strategically to allocate time for each task based on its importance.

• Associate Cleaning with Your Well-Being: 

Understand that a clean environment contributes to your physical and mental well-being, providing motivation. 

Pro Tip: Reflect on the positive impact of a clean space on your health and mood to reinforce your motivation.

• Share Before and After Photos: 

Capture the transformation to motivate yourself and inspire others. 

Pro Tip: Create a dedicated photo gallery or social media account for sharing your cleaning journey.

• Set Realistic Expectations: 

Acknowledge that cleaning doesn't have to be perfect; set realistic expectations to avoid undue pressure.

Pro Tip: Prioritize tasks based on importance and focus on achieving a reasonable level of cleanliness.

• Prioritize Problem Areas: 

Tackle the areas that bother you the most first, creating a cleaner and more comfortable space.

Pro Tip: Create a priority list to identify and address the most pressing cleaning issues.

• Seek Professional Help When Necessary: 

For larger cleaning projects or when it becomes overwhelming, consider professional cleaning services.

Pro Tip: Research and hire reliable cleaning professionals who align with your cleaning standards.

Key Takeaways

Cleaning doesn't have to be a dreaded task. By combining intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, setting goals, breaking tasks into smaller steps, and employing a variety of creative strategies, you can transform cleaning into a motivating and enjoyable experience. For an even better upgrade to your cleaning routine, be sure to use natural, plant-powered cleaning formulas that are safe on sensitive skin and tough on stubborn stains, whether you’re tackling dirty dishes or doing a load of laundry.

Each cleaning session becomes a step toward a cleaner, more organized, and inviting living space. So, get ready to harness your unique motivations and turn your cleaning routines into a source of satisfaction and accomplishment. Your space will thank you, and you'll find new joy in the process.