A Back to School Cleaning Schedule That Actually Works

Why You Need a Cleaning Schedule to Step Up Your Routine

As back-to-school season approaches, it’s time to get your home and routine solidified before the hustle that comes with a new school year. While summer is a time of relaxation that often throws routine out the window, it’s time to get prepared for the school year to set you and your family up for success. It starts with getting your house back to school ready, and then setting a cleaning schedule so that the entire family can benefit from having a set routine. We’ll share some practical tips for back to school cleaning, and creating a cleaning routine using a weekly cleaning checklist to set up your family for success.

The Importance of a Routine

A routine is helpful in bringing structure and stability to family life, and a consistent cleaning schedule is a key element. Not only does a schedule hold you accountable, but also helps everyone know what to expect each day. Plus, routines make it easier for kids to adjust to their school schedules. A win-win! 

Back-to-School Cleaning Prep

Before getting into the regular cleaning flow, preparing your home up front for the school year will kick off the start of an organized year! Here are a few cleaning tips to help transition from the summer slump to school year success.

• Declutter and Organize Study Spaces: A tidy study area can boost concentration and productivity. A study done at Princeton University revealed that visual clutter in a workspace reduces a person’s ability to focus and process information. The kids might even look forward to doing their homework in a fresh space.
• Deep Clean Common Areas: Living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms need some extra love before the school year kicks off and schedules fill up. A more positive and productive mindset starts with your physical space!
• Sanitize High-Touch Surfaces: Keep those germs at bay by cleaning door handles, light switches, and other frequently touched spots.
• Organize School Supplies and Backpacks: Everything should be easily accessible when the first day rolls around.

Creating an Effective Cleaning Schedule

Now that the prep work is done, it’s time to get into a regular cleaning routine. Setting up a cleaning schedule doesn’t have to be complicated. Read these easy tips to get started:

• Assess Your Home’s Needs: Every home is different. Look at which areas need the most attention and how often. 
• Involve the Family: Cleaning is a team effort! Involve your kids with age-appropriate tasks. It teaches them responsibility and time management. To make it fun, turn on some music or set a timer for a quick cleaning race.
• Prioritize Daily Tasks: Focus on high-traffic areas and daily chores to keep things manageable. Does your family track mud into the mudroom every day? Add mopping the floors as a daily task. Or if making dinner together as a family is a priority, make sure that the kitchen is a high touch area on the cleaning schedule. 

Here’s a sample weekly cleaning schedule for inspiration:

• Monday: Bedrooms 
• Tuesday: Bathrooms
• Wednesday: Living areas
• Thursday: Kitchen
• Friday: Dusting and vacuuming
• Saturday: Outdoor spaces
• Sunday: Laundry and assign chores for the upcoming week

Benefits of a Weekly Cleaning Checklist

Using a weekly cleaning checklist can make a world of difference to help you track progress and also ensure nothing gets overlooked. For all the list lovers out there, it’s also a satisfying win to complete each task. According to a University of Washington study, maintaining a clean and organized home can help manage allergens, reduce the spread of germs, and create a more pleasant and productive environment. Customize your checklist to fit your family’s needs and watch the magic happen.

We’ve created a downloadable weekly cleaning checklist template for you to use. Try it!

Tools and Products to Simplify Cleaning

Having tools and products in place can make cleaning more enjoyable. Here are some must-haves for your cleaning tool kit:

• Essential Cleaning Tools: Microfiber cloths, a good vacuum, and a sturdy mop are your best friends.
• Quality Cleaning Supplies: Investing in quality products, from a good oven cleaner to heavy duty sponges, can save you time and effort in the long run.
• Natural and Eco-Friendly Solutions: Vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice work wonders without harsh chemicals. Below is a recipe for an easy all-purpose cleaning solution using supplies you already have!

Creating a back-to-school cleaning schedule and using a weekly checklist can transform your home and reduce stress for the whole family. Implement these strategies for a smoother school year. 

Download our free printable weekly cleaning checklist to get started.By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to a clean and organized home, ready to tackle whatever the school year brings. If the thought of tackling a weekly checklist is too much with the busyness that the school year brings, give Home Clean Heroes a call to tackle the cleaning for you! We even have our own cleaning checklist to ensure nothing gets missed.