I know this series comes with a lot of homework. Since so many of you have reached out with questions about how to get all this work done, I just wanted to remind all of my readers that these posts, this series, has no timeframe attached to it. Yes, building a prep & plan mindset takes time and effort. In some cases, there is a ton of work to be done just to feel like you can begin the process. But the important thing to remember is that this work can be done anytime, depending on your season of life.
My goal is to post the information so whenever you’re ready, you have the resources to take your next steps in prepping and planning. These assignments do not need to be done in order, and they don’t need to be completed perfectly. The beauty of this plan is that you take what you need when you need it, and leave the rest behind. We don’t want to clutter up our heads like we may clutter our homes. I suffer from both, which is why I work so hard to prep and plan.
With that being said, this week we’re going back to Week 2. The Week 2 assignments were to list what areas in the house need a deep clean and a serious review (another word for looking for things to declutter) and to make a list of cleaning products you love and need to purchase. As well as set up make-ahead meals and motivational rewards ahead of time so that when you start your Spring Cleaning you won’t be overwhelmed. Once you find that list (or make it for the first time–directions are here), look at your calendar. I know it’s still February. But if you look at your cleaning list and feel overwhelmed, now is the time to schedule out when you’re going to get this cleaning done.
Unlike movies and TV, most people do their deep cleaning throughout the entire season. Not in one day. (although that will work too). If you schedule your time now, and spread it out over two or three months, it becomes a doable thing instead of this monumental event that must be conquered. Also, this gives you time to order/buy your favorite cleaning supplies. With all the supply chain issues, I’ve noticed that some of my favorite products are backordered. So I’m placing an online order today.
If you need any inspiration to get started, here are some of my favorite resources for Spring Cleaning and/or developing ongoing cleaning schedules.
Clean Mama Website: I have her cleaning planner and love it. Once I got into the rhythm with her system, my house has never stayed cleaner. I LOVE her detergent and laundry whitening agent since my family has allergic reactions to certain chemicals. Her cleaning products also smell great!
FlyLady Website: I love her Zone Cleaning system and used it for years, until I found the Clean Mama system. There is a TON of information on this site and it’s worth spending some time reading her articles.
Diane in Denmark on YouTube and Instagram: I love Diane in Denmark. She used to be FlyLady consultant and makes almost daily videos about the system. She is a Scottish woman living in Denmark who swims naked in the ice cold fjords. She always makes me laugh, and her cleaning videos are a joy to watch!
The Secret Slob: Another YouTube who makes the FlyLady system work for her. Steph is a busy woman who makes cleaning work for her, instead of the other way around. She’s hilarious and so much fun to watch. I would rather watch her videos than actually clean my house!
It may still be snowing where you are, as it is here in Virginia, but it’s never to early to prep for Spring Cleaning. And don’t forget to add in a few treats to give yourself as a reward when it’s all over! So that’s the only assignment this week. Make your cleaning schedule, choose your rewards, collect some do-ahead recipes so you don’t have to cook while you clean, and collect your favorite cleaning products. You will thank me in May when you want to lie around and read books, without feeling guilty, knowing your house is clean and organized.
We’ll be talking about the how-tos of Spring Cleaning in a few weeks. For now, just make your schedule and eat a muffin. You deserve it!
