Let’s be honest, finding the motivation to tidy up your living space can sometimes feel like a daunting task. The dishes pile up, the laundry seems never-ending, and dust seems to accumulate out of nowhere. Procrastination kicks in, and even the smallest cleaning task can feel overwhelming. If you can relate to this struggle, you’re not alone. Many people find it challenging to maintain a consistently clean environment amidst the busyness of daily life. However, learning how to stay motivated to clean is crucial.
But here’s the thing: a clean home can make a significant difference. It can boost your mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and create a more welcoming and peaceful atmosphere. This guide provides practical strategies to shift your mindset and offers simple habits and expert-approved tips to help you stay on track. Whether you’re a busy professional with an apartment in New York, NY, a parent juggling multiple responsibilities in Knoxville, TN, or someone looking for tips to keep your new home in Seattle, WA clean, these suggestions will help you transform cleaning from a dreaded task into a manageable part of your routine.
1. Establish a Daily Cleaning Routine
Maintaining motivation to clean becomes easier when it becomes a part of your daily schedule. Instead of allowing messes to accumulate and become overwhelming, incorporate cleaning tasks into your daily routine in small, consistent ways.
“Incorporate simple daily habits, like a quick 10-minute tidy-up at the same time each day, into your schedule,” advises Lori Vande Krol, organization and productivity consultant and creator of The ProAction Planner. “Consistency turns cleaning into a habit, not a chore.”
Rinea Blanchard, owner of Superior Contract Cleaning in Lafayette, LA, adds, “Most people don’t enjoy cleaning, so you just have to start. The more you do it, the more it becomes second nature. You’ll find that motivation naturally follows. Cleaning can be a physical activity that releases endorphins, similar to a workout. The sense of accomplishment and a clean home can be powerful motivators.”
2. Utilize Quick Wins to Gain Momentum
Sometimes, the most challenging part is getting started. This is where the 5-Minute Rule and 2-Minute Rule can be effective.
“Motivation can be elusive and often doesn’t show up on time,” says D. Allison Lee, CPO® and Digital Productivity Coach. “Encourage yourself to begin by setting a timer for just 5 minutes and committing to that short burst of activity. Start with small tasks or anything that can be completed in 2 minutes or less. The momentum generated will propel you forward.”
Psychiatrist Dr. Jennifer McManus concurs: “People tend to overestimate the difficulty of cleaning while underestimating the satisfaction that follows. By committing to just five minutes, you can overcome initial resistance and keep the momentum going.”
3. Start Small When Motivation is Low
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, start small. Focus on a tiny area to gain traction and maintain motivation to clean.
Toby Schulz, CEO of Maid2Match, suggests: “Begin by wiping down the sink or organizing a drawer if a larger task, like cleaning the entire shower, feels daunting. These small victories can help you build momentum.” He also recommends pairing chores with enjoyable activities, such as listening to music or podcasts, to make the tasks more enjoyable.
Interior designer Nitya Seth echoes this sentiment: “Start with a small area, like a single drawer or a small countertop. These minor tasks provide quick wins that can keep you motivated. Listening to music or podcasts while doing household chores can transform them into relaxing activities rather than burdensome tasks.”
4. Combine Cleaning with Enjoyable Activities
Cleaning is more likely to be enjoyable when it doesn’t feel like a chore. Find ways to make it a more pleasant experience.
“One of my favorite techniques for staying motivated while cleaning is to pair it with something enjoyable, like listening to a podcast or an upbeat playlist,” shares Erik Fisher of the podcast Beyond the To-Do List. “This approach transforms the task into a more enjoyable activity and helps time pass more quickly. I also recommend starting with a ‘reset zone.’ Choose a small area to tidy up first thing each day. Seeing that space consistently clean can build momentum and make it easier to tackle more tasks.”
Elizabeth Grace Saunders, a time management coach and author, also emphasizes this approach: “It’s easier to clean when you’re not solely focused on cleaning. Engage in a conversation with a friend or listen to a show while cleaning. Before you know it, your space will be sparkling clean, and you would have also enjoyed the process. It’s a win-win situation.”
5. View Cleaning as Self-Care
Instead of considering cleaning as a tedious task, think of it as a way to care for your future self.
“Imagine how satisfying it will feel once the cleaning is complete,” suggests professional organizer Cathy Chalfant of Taft Street Interiors in Carmel, IN. “Gather your cleaning supplies, focus on one area at a time, and energize yourself with some music. Afterward, reward yourself. Light a scented candle, enjoy a snack in your freshly cleaned kitchen, or relax in a tidy bathtub. Transforming cleaning into an act of self-love can be incredibly motivating.”
6. Start with a Vision
Before embarking on a thorough cleaning session, clarify why you want to do it. Having a meaningful purpose can make finding motivation easier.
“Create a quick mood board that captures the ambiance you want the space to exude, whether it’s calm, energizing, or minimalist,” suggests professional organizer Marcelle from Soul Cove in New York. “Envision a ‘peaceful spot for morning coffee’ or an ‘organized entryway to streamline mornings.’ When you design with intention, motivation naturally follows. It’s a simple yet effective way to maintain motivation and cleanliness in your space.”
7. Break Cleaning Tasks into Manageable Segments
Attempting to clean the entire house in one go can lead to burnout. Instead, establish a rhythm of daily and weekly tasks.
The cleaning company My Mopps in Easley, SC, suggests a routine like this:
- Daily: Make the beds, wash dishes, wipe down counters
Weekly: Do laundry, change sheets, clean floors, dust, and clean the bathrooms
Following a cleaning rhythm can make your to-do list feel more manageable and achievable.
8. Implement an Efficient System
Efficiency is key. Follow a logical sequence to avoid wasting time and energy retracing your steps.
“Start at the back of the house and work your way toward the front,” advises My Mopps. “In each room, begin at the center, such as cleaning light fixtures, then move around the space, scanning from top to bottom as you move side to side to ensure nothing is overlooked.”
Sarah Gomm of move management company New Chapter Transitions suggests using a “rehome” basket in each room. Place items that belong elsewhere in the basket and return them to their proper places after cleaning the room. This method helps you stay focused and organized.
She also recommends incorporating small seasonal projects, like checking spice expiration dates. “Keep track of items you discard and purchase replacements in bulk during your next shopping trip; this approach is cost-effective and practical.”
9. Simplify Organization
The less clutter you have, the easier it is to clean and remain motivated.
“I advise using simple, neutral containers for small to medium items,” suggests Rhode Charles, founder and lead organizer at Brentwood Organizers. “Minimalist colors and designs create a cohesive look and make it simpler to maintain consistency from room to room. When everything has a designated place, it’s easier to locate what you need and return it to its proper spot. This foundation helps keep daily clutter at bay.”
11. Turn Cleaning into a Game
“Transform spring cleaning into a ‘Keep What Counts Challenge,'” suggests Carrie Coumbs, Caring Transitions Senior Strategic Advisor.“Select a specific area, like a drawer, shelf, or closet, take a before photo, and ask yourself: Would I take this if I were moving to a smaller space? Share your after photo on social media and challenge a friend to participate. This exercise is both strategic and liberating, allowing you to start the season feeling lighter and more in control.”
12. Find Inspiration from Others
In need of a quick motivation boost? Sometimes, watching someone else clean can provide the spark you need.
Pete Mockaitis, host of the How to Be Awesome at Your Job podcast, recommends tuning into YouTube: “Watching a few minutes of a BiggieClean video motivates me. Seeing Jacob tackle massive messes reminds me that my space is manageable.”
13. Create Guest-Ready Areas
Certain areas of your home, such as the kitchen and bathroom, can leave a lasting impression on guests. Therefore, it’s beneficial to focus your cleaning routine on these spaces.
The team at Sisters Home Services in G