A Simple Cleaning Schedule You Can Actually Keep
The short answer
Split cleaning into three lists: a few small daily tasks, a weekly round of bigger chores, and a monthly list for things that can wait. Give each person in the house a part. For most everyday cleaning, soap and water does the job. [1] If you use bleach, never mix it with other cleaners. [1]
Daily (10 to 15 minutes)
- Wash dishes or run the dishwasher
- Wipe kitchen counters and the stovetop
- Quick pick-up of the main living area
- Sort the mail
- Put away anything you took out
Weekly
Pick one or two chores a day instead of doing them all on Saturday.
- Monday: clean the bathroom (sink, toilet, tub or shower, mirror)
- Tuesday: dust surfaces
- Wednesday: vacuum or sweep floors
- Thursday: clean out the fridge before grocery day
- Friday: mop kitchen and bathroom floors
- Saturday: change bedsheets, wash towels
- Sunday: take out recycling, reset for the week
Monthly
- Wipe the inside of the microwave and the fridge shelves
- Clean the oven or stovetop drip pans
- Dust ceiling fans, vents and baseboards
- Wash shower curtains and bath mats
- Wipe door handles, light switches and remotes
- Vacuum under furniture and cushions
Sharing the work
- Match chores to ages. Young kids can put away toys and set the table. Older kids can vacuum and take out the trash. Our guide to screen-free activities for kids has more ideas for keeping kids busy.
- Post the schedule. A list on the fridge means nobody has to ask.
- Rotate the less-fun jobs so no one is always on bathroom duty.
Cleaning vs. disinfecting
Cleaning means water, soap and scrubbing. It removes germs, dirt and impurities from surfaces. [1] Disinfecting uses chemicals that kill any remaining germs. [1]
In most situations, cleaning with soap and water removes most germs. CDC says disinfecting at home likely isn’t needed unless someone in your home is sick, or someone sick has recently visited. [1]
Bleach safety basics
If you do use bleach:
- Never mix bleach with other cleaners or disinfectants. It can release vapors that may be very dangerous to breathe. [1] Bleach mixed with ammonia makes toxic gases called chloramines. Bleach mixed with acids gives off chlorine gas. [2]
- Know where ammonia and acids hide. Ammonia is in some glass and window cleaners. Acids are in vinegar, some toilet bowl cleaners and drain cleaners. [2]
- Clean first, then disinfect. Clean visibly dirty surfaces with soap or detergent before using bleach. [1]
- Open windows. Make sure you have good ventilation when using bleach indoors. [1]
- Read the label. Follow the directions on the product, and check whether you need gloves or eye protection. [1][2]
- Wash your hands after cleaning or disinfecting. [1]
If someone has been exposed to a chemical mix and has symptoms, contact a healthcare provider or call 911. [2]
Make it easier
Want it on paper? Use our printables to keep track as you go.
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