Stephanie Having toddlers or children in the home can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Keeping your home clean and safe for your little ones can require some extra work, but with a few helpful tips, it doesn’t have to feel like an insurmountable task. I try to do all of these daily with some accomplished in the morning and the rest in the evening. Here are some of the household cleaning tips for parents to help keep your house clean with toddlers and/or children in the house.
1. Carpets:
Children but toddlers in general are notorious for making messes and spilling, so clean carpets are essential to maintaining a clean home. Regularly vacuum carpets in your child or toddler’s play areas and bedrooms, as well as high-traffic hallways and stairs. If you have rugs or area carpets that don’t clean up easily with vacuuming, try a steam cleaner or consider replacing them with more durable flooring materials like laminate or tile.
2. Toys:
Children love their toys, but they can also get very dirty very quickly. So make it part of your routine to clean the most frequently used toys at least once a week – this includes stuffed animals, blocks, and other plastic toys, dolls, and baby rattles. Be sure to use non-toxic cleaners and warm water, and consider investing in a steam cleaner for more stubborn messes.
3. Baths:
Baths are important for children and can be considered playtime for toddlers but it can also be a source of bacteria and dirt if not cleaned properly. Make sure to scrub showers and bathtubs on a regular basis with an antibacterial cleaner, paying extra attention to any grout or tile lines. Rinse the tub thoroughly after each use and keep the drain free from hair buildup.
4. Kitchen Surfaces:
Kitchen counters and tables tend to get covered in germs when you have children in the house, so make sure to wipe down these areas frequently with disinfectant wipes or sprays. Also, check behind appliances such as your refrigerator, stovetop, and dishwasher for any crumbs or spilled liquids that may have accumulated; this can help prevent any unwanted pests from taking up residence in your home.
5. Couches:
Couches are another area that can quickly become stained and dirty when children are around. Always vacuum fabric couches regularly and consider investing in a slipcover to protect the upholstery from spills. For leather couches, use a specially-formulated leather cleaner to remove any dirt or stains as well as protect it.
6. Floors:
Cleaning the floors should be a top priority when you have children but especially toddlers in the house. Vacuum or sweep all hard surfaces regularly, and use a mop or steam cleaner to ensure your tile or linoleum is free from dirt and germs. In addition, it’s always a good idea to keep doormats at each entrance of your home to helps reduce tracking dirt and mud into the house.
By following these household cleaning tips for parents, you can keep your home safe and clean for your little ones without having to spend too much time or feeling overwhelmed. Instead, with just a few minutes of effort each day, you can ensure that your children can enjoy their playtime without worrying about germs or messes.
