How Do I Keep A Clean House With Babies or Toddlers?
Do you ever wake up on certain days and have the urge to clean your entire house? It’s such a great feeling until you realize you can’t do much with a mobile baby or toddler needing your constant attention.
It’s amazing how much you can accomplish when you are alone compared to having a baby or toddler at home. You end up becoming discouraged and wonder how other moms keep their houses so clean.
Through my experiences, I’ve learned that some of these mom’s have a cleaning service, a parent/ relative nearby to babysit, they stay up all night to clean, their mom comes over and cleans, or they just leave their house all day so their houses stay clean. You never know each person’s situation, so it’s best to NEVER compare yourself to anyone. Do what works for YOU.
Below are some ideas that I used with my children to get tasks done such as laundry, cleaning dishes, or even vacuuming and mopping.
- Have a special toy bin that you can take out to keep them occupied, even if it’s 5 minutes while you fold clothes.
- Put your baby in high chair, give them a few favorite snacks with some toys while you do the dishes or emptying the dishwasher.
- Wear your baby in a sling or baby carrier while you put away folded laundry.
- Put them in a pack n’ play with some toys while you vacuum or mop. It’s ok if they whine for a bit. Turn on their favorite show.
- Clean while they nap. Even if you use half the time of their nap, a lot can get done. Or just take a nap too. Moms definitely need to recharge as well. It gives you more energy.
- Wake up before everyone else does.
- Keep a simple cleaning schedule.
- Involve your child. Toddlers love helping! Use this time to enjoy these special moments while they are this young.
Some of these ideas may or may not work for you and your child. However, figuring out a plan and a routine that fits your needs is your best bet for a cleaner home.