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Keeping a tidy family house is a challenge on its own. But when you add home-educating two young children and being pregnant with a third, it can seem nearly impossible.
Some days, it might feel like a constant race against time and clutter.
Over time, I’ve picked up some tricks that have helped me keep our home relatively tidy without losing my mind.
These little hacks have transformed our daily routine. Brought more peace and order into our home.
Whether you’re a homeschooling parent or just juggling a busy household, I hope these tips can help you too.
Here are my 10 best hacks that make life a bit easier and keep our house feeling cosy and clean.
Enjoy and don’t forget to comment at the end, I love hearing from you and subscribe to get access to FREE printables, newsletters, the latest posts and more.
1. Create a Morning Routine
Starting the day with a set routine has been a game-changer for us.
Each morning, we all have our own jobs to do.
The girls take turns doing the dishwasher and guinea pigs.
I do the bathrooms and hang out the washing that we put on during the night.
Putting the dishwasher and washing on overnight saves you money on your water bill.
When you have a morning routine for the whole family, it sets a positive tone for the day.
Not only are the girls learning to be responsible but it makes us all feel more organised.
Need a morning routine? I have you covered with 5 easy and customisable morning routine ideas for you to try today.
Give them a try and let me know which you prefer.
2. Keep a Simple Schedule
We stick to a simple schedule that balances home-schooling activities and chores.
Want to know more about having a home-educating life, schedules and topics?
Read my post, Home Education Made Simple: Popular Topics and Flexible Schedules.
For example, while the kids do a quiet activity like reading or crafts. I take 10 minutes to wipe down surfaces or fold laundry.
This way, I’m not waiting until the end of the day to tackle everything at once. Plus we are all too exhausted by the end of the day, right?
You are more likely to put it off till tomorrow when more will add to your pile.
3. Make Cleaning Fun
Cleaning doesn’t have to be boring.
For us adults, give yourself a treat to look forward to once you’ve completed the task.
Perhaps it’s a cup of tea, reading a few pages of your fave book or a cheeky chocolate biscuit.
Or maybe all three, my personal favourite. oops.
I’ve found that playing music and turning tidying up into a game can really motivate my girls.
If they want screen time or to go out with friends then they can but after these tasks are completed.
You watch how fast they get their jobs done. LOL.
You can also set a timer and see who can pick up the most items or “race” to get a task done. This is great for bedtime too.
It’s simple, but it works.
4. Do a Little Bit Each Day
If there is one tip you take away, it’s this one.
Don’t feel you have to do all the housework in one day.
It’s stressful, time-consuming and just plain boring.
Try doing certain tasks on certain days.
For example, on Tuesdays, (Strip it Tuesday) we all strip our beds and I remake them.
On a Wednesday (worktop Wednesday) I do the kitchen.
Doing it like this breaks it down into more manageable chunks and isn’t so overwhelming.
Plus the house always looks decent because I do a little each day.
That way, if an unexpected guest shows up, you won’t need to worry about your home being unfit for visitors.
Obviously, I clean the bathrooms and Hoover high-traffic areas every day.
Find out what I do each day with step-by-step instructions to keep on top of my household chores. The Ultimate Cleaning Hack For Busy Couples
5. Declutter Regularly
If you are a regular reader of my blog….which of course you are, right?
Then you will know I despise clutter and I am always selling and buying bargains.
I believe in only having what gives you happiness.
Not only does this leave your space filled with things that make you happy but it creates SO much space!
My husband always jokes, “If you had your way, there would only be a chair in the room.”
If you find it hard to let go of things or have no idea where to start, I have just the post for you.
Find out How to declutter in 4 easy steps here.
With two kids and one on the way, clutter builds up fast.
I make a point to go through our things at least once a month and donate or store away items we don’t use anymore.
Less stuff means less to clean up, and that’s a win for everyone.
6. Get the Kids Involved
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that kids can help more than you think.
I teach them age-appropriate chores. Things like putting away their toys, helping set the table, or even sorting socks.
It not only lightens my load but teaches them responsibility.
I also offer rewards for the chores they complete.
Don’t underestimate the power of praise either, this works for adults and children.
Download the kid’s reward chart for free.
Read my popular post on money-free rewards for kid’s chores.
7. Embrace Multi-Tasking
Multi-tasking can be a lifesaver.
If you are a muma reading this then you know what I mean.
While I help the kids with a project or learning game, I might start cooking, sweep the floor or wipe down the table.
If I’m waiting for the kettle to boil, I use that minute to put away dishes.
Little moments like these add up over the day.
Don’t be afraid to teach your other half to get involved in this too.
8. Invest in Easy-to-Clean Solutions
I’ve discovered that having easy-to-clean items makes a difference.
For example, I got myself a cleaning brush set from Aldi for £7.
This is awesome in helping tackle the grime in the bathrooms like the shower and bath.
Saving me time and energy whilst doing a better job than using just a cloth.
Save money on cloth’s and get yourself microfibre cleaning cloths instead.
Take a look at my product recommendations page for tons of great products that save me time and money.
Please comment and let me know what you use, I love trying new things and saving money.
9. Maximise Storage
Make use of baskets, shelves and old units.
You can upcycle old DVD units to make them into kid’s storage solutions. Or Grab yourself some bargain baskets from the likes of B&M or HomeBargains to store items that don’t have a home.
For more top tips on storage read my post, 11 easy ways to maximise storage and save money.
10. Take Breaks Without Guilt
There are days when I’m exhausted and the house isn’t picture-perfect, and that’s okay.
I’ve learned to give myself permission to rest.
Taking a short break helps me recharge and actually makes me more productive when I get back to it.
Most importantly. I remind myself that our home is a place for learning, growing, and loving—not just cleaning.
If we have a fun, messy day making crafts or playing outside, that’s okay. The house doesn’t need to be spotless all the time.
I want to create happy, loving family memories instead.
I recently found this blog post on a similar topic and love the way people see things differently.
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Bee's Final Thoughts
Life as a homeschooling mum with another baby on the way is full of joys and challenges.
These hacks have helped me find a balance between home education, pregnancy, and keeping our house tidy.
Some days are more challenging than others. But with these tips, it’s possible to keep things under control and enjoy our cosy home.
Remember, perfection isn’t the goal.
Finding a balance that works for you and your family is what truly matters.
I hope these tips bring a bit of calm and comfort to your day-to-day life.
Thanks for reading.
Bee 🐝
The Mindful Mama Bee
