You Can Keep A Clutter-Free Home With Kids – Even If Marie Kondo Can’t!
We’ve all seen the big news: Marie Kondo, known for her cleaning prowess, has confessed that she has “kind of given up” on her tidying methods due to the arrival of her third child. The famous Japanese organization guru stated that with three kids to care for, her household is now cluttered and tidying is no longer a priority.
For us at ClutterBGone, the first thing to remember is that keeping a house in order is not easy at all. Most people lack time, motivation, and even a clear goal. And If we add children to the equation, applying a method as complex as Marie Kondo’s can feel impossible. Even for Marie Kondo herself.
However, keeping a place clean and decluttered with kids is possible. It simply requires a combination of structure, consistency, and teamwork. Parents can set clear rules and expectations for cleanliness, establish routines for chores, and involve children in the process. Encouraging children to take ownership of their own spaces and giving them age-appropriate tasks can also help. Additionally, with a little creativity, decluttering can be made into a fun family activity, which can make the process more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Here are a few thoughts to keep in mind for tackling a cleaning and decluttering project with kids:
Cleaning is not a special event – it’s a daily habit
Marie Kondo’s method of tidying focuses on completing the process all at once as if it were a “special event”. This approach can be challenging for busy parents of young children who may struggle to find the time and mental energy to tackle the task. A more flexible and realistic approach is to break the process down into smaller, manageable steps and work through them at your own pace. By taking a gradual approach, parents can maintain a clean and organized home while accommodating their busy schedules and the demands of raising children.
The importance of setting an example
Lead by example for your children and foster a sense of responsibility in them by establishing clear expectations for cleaning and decluttering as a family. When parents show their commitment to regularly maintaining a tidy home, children are more likely to take this task seriously and take pride in their own spaces.
Cleaning as a fun, bonding activity
Cleaning and decluttering can be transformed from a chore into a fun family bonding activity by incorporating elements of play and teamwork. You can, for instance, turn cleaning into a game by setting timers, seeing who can pick up the most items, or simply show appreciation for everyone’s efforts by giving rewards and recognition, such as a family outing or special treats.
More time for you and your family
Although it may not feel like it, cleaning and decluttering can actually free up time for you and your family. Furthermore, by creating a more functional living space, you can use your time more efficiently for activities that bring joy and connection to your family rather than constantly struggling with clutter and disorganization. In short, cleaning and decluttering not only improve the appearance and functionality of your home but also give you and your loved ones more time to focus on the things that matter most.
The KonMarie art of decluttering has become wildly popular due to its success in helping people organize their homes. However, it’s important to remember that every household is unique and has different needs, preferences, and lifestyles. Marie Kondo’s method may work wonders for some people but it may not be the best fit for others.
At ClutterBGone, we believe it’s essential to approach decluttering and organization with a personalized strategy, taking into account each family’s lifestyle, habits, and priorities. That’s why we offer customizable services based on the needs and challenges of every household. If you wish to learn more about our services, contact us now for a free telephone consultation. We’ll transform your life with a lasting change so you can enjoy a clean, comfortable, and clutter-free environment!