Cleaning tips for households with kids

Keeping a clean house can feel like a constant challenge when you have young children. From spills and messes to toys and art projects, it seems like there’s always something to clean up. However, with the right strategies, you can maintain a tidy, safe, and welcoming home for both kids and adults. Here are some cleaning tips that will help you manage the household mess and keep your home looking and feeling fresh.

1. Use Non-Toxic and Kid-Safe Cleaning Products

With children crawling, playing, and touching nearly every surface, it’s important to use cleaning products that are safe for them. Many store-bought cleaning solutions contain harsh chemicals that can pose risks to kids, so it’s best to opt for natural, non-toxic cleaners whenever possible.

Non-Toxic Cleaning Solutions:

  • Vinegar and Water: A simple solution of equal parts white vinegar and water is an effective and natural cleaner for countertops, sinks, and windows. It’s non-toxic and works wonders to clean and disinfect.

  • Baking Soda: Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can be used to scrub sinks, tubs, and surfaces. It’s perfect for removing stains, deodorizing, and polishing.

  • Castile Soap: A gentle, plant-based soap that can be used for cleaning various surfaces, including floors, dishes, and toys. It’s safe and gentle for children’s sensitive skin.

  • Essential Oils: Use essential oils like lavender, tea tree, or lemon for a natural fresh scent. Just be cautious about which oils are safe around children (e.g., avoid strong oils like peppermint or eucalyptus for babies and toddlers).

2. Create an Organized Cleaning Routine

Keeping your home clean when you have kids requires a bit of organization and consistency. Establishing a regular cleaning routine can help reduce the mess and keep your home manageable.

Routine Tips:

  • Daily Quick Tidying: Set aside 10-15 minutes each day for a quick tidy-up. This can include wiping down surfaces, putting away toys, and straightening up living areas. Involve your kids in simple tasks like putting away their toys or wiping down tables.

  • Focus on High-Traffic Areas: Prioritize cleaning areas that get the most use, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and living room. These areas are more likely to accumulate dirt and mess quickly, so keep them tidy on a daily basis.

  • Weekly Deep Cleaning: Set a schedule for deep cleaning once a week. This includes vacuuming floors, cleaning bathrooms, and washing floors. If your kids are old enough, involve them in these tasks to teach them responsibility.

3. Organize Kids’ Toys and Belongings

One of the biggest challenges of cleaning with kids is managing their toys, clothes, and other belongings. Creating a system for organizing these items can reduce clutter and make it easier to clean up after playtime.

Organizing Tips:

  • Toy Storage Bins: Use bins or baskets to store toys. Label each bin so that your children can easily find and put away their toys. You can use clear plastic bins or colorful boxes to make it fun for kids to keep their toys organized.

  • Toy Rotation: Instead of keeping all toys out at once, try rotating them. Store some toys away for a few weeks, and then swap them out for a fresh batch. This keeps toys interesting and reduces clutter.

  • Create a Play Area: Designate a specific area in the house for play, such as a playroom or a corner of the living room. By keeping toys in one area, you make it easier to clean up and limit the spread of toys throughout the house.

4. Manage Spills and Stains Quickly

Children are prone to spills and stains, especially with food, drinks, and art supplies. The key to managing spills is to clean them as quickly as possible to prevent them from setting into fabrics or carpets.

Stain Removal Tips:

  • Act Quickly: The sooner you can address a spill or stain, the easier it will be to clean. Blot the spill immediately with a cloth (don’t rub, as this can spread the stain).

  • Use Baking Soda for Odors: For spills like milk or juice, sprinkle baking soda on the area to neutralize the odor. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes, then vacuum it up.

  • Baby Wipes for Quick Cleanups: Keep a pack of baby wipes handy for quick cleanups of small messes, especially when you’re on the go or when your child makes a mess they can’t clean themselves.

5. Focus on High-Risk Areas for Germs

Kids tend to touch everything and bring germs into the house, so it’s essential to pay extra attention to high-risk areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and frequently touched surfaces.

Germ-Focused Cleaning Tips:

  • Disinfect Frequently-Touched Surfaces: Make sure to disinfect high-touch areas like door handles, light switches, remote controls, and cell phones regularly. Use natural disinfectants or wipe them down with a cloth and vinegar solution.

  • Clean High-Chair and Feeding Area: If your child is still using a high chair, be sure to clean it thoroughly after each meal. Wipe down the tray, seat, and straps with a non-toxic disinfecting wipe.

  • Bathroom Maintenance: The bathroom is a germ hotspot. Clean the toilet, sink, and tub frequently. Use a mild cleaner and pay attention to areas like faucets and handles, which kids often touch.

6. Teach Kids to Help with Cleaning

Getting your children involved in the cleaning process not only lightens your load but also teaches them valuable habits. Age-appropriate chores can empower kids to take responsibility for their space and contribute to maintaining a clean home.

Chore Ideas for Kids:

  • Picking Up Toys: Encourage your kids to put away their toys after they’re done playing. Make it a fun game to keep them motivated.

  • Wiping Surfaces: Older kids can help wipe down tables, countertops, and other surfaces with a non-toxic cleaner.

  • Sweeping or Dusting: Kids can use a small broom or dustpan to help clean up crumbs or dirt in the kitchen or dining room.

7. Keep the Home Fresh

A clean home isn’t just about eliminating dirt—it’s also about keeping things smelling fresh. While store-bought air fresheners can be filled with chemicals, there are natural alternatives that are safe and effective.

Freshening Tips:

  • Essential Oil Diffuser: Use an essential oil diffuser to fill the home with natural, pleasant scents. Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and citrus can help keep the air smelling fresh.

  • Baking Soda for Odors: Place bowls of baking soda in areas prone to odors, such as the bathroom or trash cans, to absorb smells.

  • Fresh Linens: Change your child’s bedding regularly and wash it with a natural detergent to maintain a fresh, clean scent in their room.

Conclusion

Cleaning with kids doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By using safe, non-toxic cleaning products, creating a routine, and organizing your home, you can keep things tidy while promoting a healthy environment for your family. Involve your children in the process to help them learn responsibility and develop good habits. With these tips, you can maintain a clean and safe home, making your household more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.