School’s Out: How to Keep a Clean House With Kids at Home

Summer break is a time for pool days, popsicles, and staying up late. But it can also mean a lot more mess. If your kids are home and your house is feeling the impact, these tips will help you maintain a cleaner space without spending your whole summer cleaning.

Create a Summer Chore Chart

Keep expectations clear and consistent. Assign age-appropriate tasks like making beds, tidying toys, and wiping surfaces. Make it fun with colorful charts, stickers, or rewards. Consider rotating chores weekly to keep things fresh and fair for everyone. For younger kids, turn tasks into games like “speed cleaning” challenges.

Set Pick-Up Times

Designate one or two times a day (like before lunch and after dinner) for the whole family to do a 10-minute tidy-up. It keeps messes from piling up and teaches kids routines. You can even play music or set a timer to make it more fun and manageable.

Use Drop Zones

Place baskets or bins by the door for shoes, swimsuits, and outdoor gear. It cuts down on dirt and keeps sandy sandals out of the living room. Add a laundry bag for wet towels and a hook for pool bags to make coming and going easier.

Simplify Snack Time

Set up a snack station with easy-to-clean trays or containers. Encourage kids to eat in designated areas to keep crumbs contained. Stock up on grab-and-go snacks in clear bins so they can serve themselves. Consider keeping a handheld vacuum nearby for quick cleanups.

Spend More Time Outside

Encourage outdoor play when the weather allows. Less time indoors means fewer messes to clean up. Set up a shaded area with a picnic blanket for snacks or crafts outside. When everyone’s enjoying the sunshine, your home stays a little tidier inside.