10 Simple Habits for a Cleaner, Calmer Home

A clean and calm home is a joy to live in. But it is more than that, it also provides the stable foundation upon which we build our lives—and the lives of our family members.

As Peter Walsh says, “Your home should be the antidote to stress, not the cause.“

Maintaining such an environment doesn’t need to be a daunting task. With a few simple habits, you can ensure your living space is consistently calming, welcoming, and serene.

And that is a gift for you, your future, and your entire family.

These habits are designed to be easy to adopt, ensuring that keeping a clean home is a stress-free part of your daily routine.

Here are ten simple habits that anyone can start today to make their home cleaner and calmer, proving that small actions can lead to significant changes.

1. Make Your Bed Every Morning

Start your day off right by making your bed. This quick task not only tidies your bedroom but also sets a positive tone for the rest of your day.

2. Do Dishes Right After Eating

Prevent the buildup of dishes by washing them immediately after meals. This habit keeps your kitchen clean and ready for the next cooking session.

3. Follow a Nightly 15-Minute Cleanup

Spend 15 minutes each night tidying up. This could involve putting away toys, straightening books, or folding blankets. It’s a simple way to reset your space for the next day.

4. Declutter Regularly

Every month, take some time to go through your possessions and decide what to keep, donate, or throw away. Regular decluttering prevents stuff from accumulating and keeps your home neat and manageable.

5. Implement Storage Solutions

Use baskets, bins, and drawers to keep everyday items out of sight but easily accessible. Proper storage solutions can drastically reduce visual clutter and help maintain an orderly home.

6. Keep Countertops Clear

Aim to keep kitchen and bathroom countertops clear of unnecessary items. Only leave out essentials and store everything else. Clear surfaces contribute to a cleaner, more organized appearance.

7. Adopt a “One In, One Out” Rule

When you acquire a new item, make it a rule to remove something old. This practice helps maintain balance in your possessions and prevents clutter from growing. And it you want more helpful tip ideas like this, here are the 20 greatest decluttering tips of all time.

8. Set Cleaning Routines

Establish regular cleaning schedules for different areas of your home, such as weekly vacuuming or bi-weekly bathroom deep cleans. Consistent routines ensure that no area becomes too disorderly.

9. Use Doormats and Remove Shoes

Place doormats at every entrance and encourage household members and guests to remove shoes upon entering. This habit minimizes the amount of dirt and debris brought into your home.

10. Manage Mail and Paperwork Immediately

Sort and manage mail and paperwork as soon as you receive them to avoid piles of clutter. Set up a system for immediate filing, recycling, or shredding.

Integrating these ten simple habits into your daily life can dramatically transform your home into a cleaner, calmer place. Start small and gradually build these practices into your routine, and you’ll soon notice a significant difference in the atmosphere of your home. Then, enjoy the calm it brings to your daily life.