My housemates arent as sensitive to mess disorder etc as I am. I cannot stand things being in disarray but how can you possibly maintain a shared area to your standard? Rotas often dont work because people eventually ignore them and asking people to clean turns you into the house sergeant major.
The best method ive found is to:
~organise once fortnightly cleaning sprees and in between to maintain the house myself. I start in the foyer (area immediately after front door) where I
~discard junk mail and
~Sort mail into that which needs to be forwarded and that which belongs to us.
~Pick up any debris
~Anything "unidentified" goes in a large bucket bought especially for the purpose (this is essential as it becomes overwhelming for me otherwise)
~I then do a quick clean using vinegar and baking soda. I use this as not only is it totally non toxic but it does a better job than anything else prevents mold growing and scours and whitens.
~In the kitchen countertops need to be cleaned with a devoted cloth
~All dirty cutlery should be placed in a bucket by the sink (this motivates people to wash) or in peoples' respective cupboards but only if youve agreed to do that.
~The fridge should be wiped down a little to prevent grime
~Dehumidifiers in the kitchen are amazing for preventing mold around the sink. Get them from Asda or Walmart if you're in the US
~The bathroom/toilet is a matter of scouring everything with vinegar and baking soda to keep everything sparkling.
~Clean round the toilet seat (with gloves) and then pour bleach round the bowl and leave to s
~People often leave their items around without care for order. Arrange everything to your preference - if your housemates dislike this refer to the fact that you're cleaning alone and cant clean round their shower gels and shaving creams. Preferably place it all in a cupboard with a dehumidifier to prevent mold buildup.
~Finally go back and vacuum all carpets
~Use a mop and bucket filled with carpet cleaner or baking soda and clean carpets/floors if need be.
This may seem long winded but if like me you require total order and clarity in your living space nothing less is required. 9/10 if you do have the fortnightly cleanfest then you wont need to bother with all of this though I often do anyway as im addicted to the sense of completion.
Hope this helps!
29 Nov 2013, 9:54 pm
