In order to do any job well, it's important to have the right tools. Sometimes I think about how many times I've struggled with a standard screwdriver when the task called for a Phillips....or I've tried to to pound a nail with a shoe...things that should be simple and quick tasks become frustrating because I couldn't put my hands on the right tools when I needed them.
The same is true for homekeeping. I find that if I have the things I need IN STOCK - and HANDY - I can accomplish little tasks effortlessly, without the frustration and inevitable procrastination that comes when I can't find the tools. Homekeeping tools - and supplies - are just as important as the wrenches and cordless drills your husband can't live without.
As we start planning for an organized, easy-to-maintain home in 2012, the first place to start is with the right tools.....housekeeping supplies, if you will. When I can reach under a bathroom sink and can pull out a pop-up wipe, I am waaaaaaay more likely to keep the bathroom tidy then when I have to search for a paper towel somewhere in the house, then locate the spray cleaner and then return to......wait. Where was I?? What was it that needed cleaning? Hold on, what's Kelly Rippa talking about now? Oh, that's so funny. Let me sit here for a second and see what's happening on TV.
I'm not kidding, that is how I work.
That is unless I have tools, right then and there, that help me focus on the task at hand.
Today's Small Thing is to take stock of your supplies. Make a list of the things you need, and have them ready to go by January 2.
I suggest keeping your supplies where you actually use them: under sinks (child-proofed, of course) or at the very least on each floor of the house or each end of the house. The best part of a cleaning strategy is simply to have your tools HANDY!
Get these at a discount store to put in a caddy per bathroom (or floor level). I splurged on some cute baskets from Walmart recently and love how they make me excited to put cleaning products in them. I opened my under-sink cabinets about 50 times to admire them. Yes, I'm that dorky.
"Small Things" Supplies
Glass Cleaner
Surface Cleaner
Abrasive cleaner
Paper Towels
Sponges
Trash bags
Dust cloth/spray
Wisk broom/dust pan
Rubber gloves
Potty scrub-brush
Optional: Pop-up wipes (love these)
General cleaning supplies to have:
Floor cleaner
Vinegar
Disinfectant spray
Tools: brooms, mop, vacuum
Trash bags
Swiffers - oh so nice!
Starting fresh with the tools you need will give you power to spend time on the things you really WANT to do, instead of feeling victimized by all the housework.
Remember, Sanctuary in the Small Things is not just about cleaning, but it's about caring for your home and the people who live in it. It's part of showing love AND helping your family members belong to the process of homemaking.
Today, take stock of what you have and start getting everything together. Be ready to make 2012 the year of creating a wonderful home sanctuary for yourself and your loved ones.
P.S. WELCOME to all the new Company Girls yesterday!!! I'm so glad you're joining us!
Song of the Day: Dream, Priscilla Ahn