Looking to get the home organized? Even though most people frown at the thought of doing housework, many of us don’t feel in control until we know everything is in its place. If you’re looking to get your home organized but aren’t sure how, we have the perfect geek tips that will make the process easier. That’s right – even geeks can keep a clean, organized house and if anything, the process is even simpler!
1. Make a Spreadsheet – You’re no stranger to spreadsheets, and these handy charts are perfect for keeping organized and allow you to see what types of chores need to be done and when. For starters, list all of your household chores on the far left column, such as dusting and vacuuming. Then list the areas of the home that these chores need to be done, as well as how often. Check them off as you go and in no time, your spreadsheet will be your go-to source for keeping organized.
2. Create a Shared Calendar – You’re a geek at heart, which means you’re programmed to work the internet to your advantage. Why not use it to your advantage when keeping organized? Make a shared calendar that allows you to be interactive and share your plans with others. Shared calendars are especially great if you’re splitting household tasks with roommates.
3. Use Desktop Widgets – You were born with the word widget in your vocabulary, and let’s face it, you use them for everything else, right? From keeping updated on emails to checking the weather, desktop widgets are convenient and fun. Why not add a widget that will help you stay on top of your housework as well? You can either design your own widget or use one that already exists. Maybe it’s a countdown to your next big cleaning day, or perhaps it’s a to-do list of your daily chores. Whatever the reason, a desktop widget can help you remember.
4. Virtual Cleaning – Even though you may be wired to think like a geek, it doesn’t mean you all think alike! While some geeks enjoy spreadsheets, others need visualizations. But instead of having to shamefully draw a picture of your home, make a virtual one on your computer. You can either use a high-tech program to make 3D images of your homes interior, or simply make a blueprint. Then, color code which areas need to be cleaned on which days using a color graph.
5. Establish a Game Plan – It’s not just the way you plan to keep organized that’s important. Implementing these strategies is the most difficult part, which is why you need a game plan in place. Determine how you’ll accomplish your tasks, such as by cleaning room by room or cleaning with certain supplies first.
6. Keep Track of Inventory – That’s right, you can’t get your cleaning done if you don’t have the right supplies on hand. In order to maximize time and reduce frustration, be sure to keep inventory of your cleaning supplies. Either add them to your spreadsheet or start a new spreadsheet. List all the supplies you need, including soap, dusting cloths, and glass cleaner. Do a check every few weeks so you know which cleaners you’ll need to pick up at the store.
7. Pop-Up Reminders – People often think that geeks aren’t forgetful, but really, it’s quite the opposite. Fortunately, geeks know how to keep organized a little better than everyone else. Those convenient little pop-up reminders on your computer are perfect for staying on track. Set up reminders for what rooms in the home need to be cleaned each day. These reminders are also great for little things, such as picking up detergent after work.
8. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – Geeks are creative by nature, which means you can reduce clutter and find new uses for some of your regular trash. For example, try reusing plastic yogurt containers for kids’ stacking toys, to store small beads or trinkets, or to start an herb garden. Check out the lids of yogurt containers, the wrappers of juice boxes, and aluminum cans. Many products can be worth money when recycled properly.
9. Time Management – Geeks are resourceful when it comes to time, which is why you’ll want to get the most done in the shortest amount of time. Designate how much time you want to spend on each task. You can use desktop widgets to help you stay on track, such as digital timers or hourglasses. Another helpful tip is spray cleaners, let them sit, and work on something else in the meantime.
10. Preparation – All this planning sounds great, but it won’t work if you’re not prepared. Have a cleaning belt, caddy, or bucket that you can transport with you, as well as a copy of your spreadsheet. Also keep certain supplies, such as toilet bowl cleaner, in the bathroom for easy reach.
Guest blogger James compares vacuum bags and other appliance consumables at Spares Next Day.
