Cleaning Schedule for a Full-Time Working Mum

Balancing a full-time job and family life can often feel like an overwhelming task, especially when it comes to keeping the house tidy. Establishing a practical cleaning schedule can be a game-changer. Here’s a suggested weekly plan tailored for a busy mum:

Monday: Quick tidy-up – Focus on high-traffic areas. Spend 20 minutes decluttering the living room and kitchen, putting toys away, and wiping down surfaces.

Tuesday: Laundry day – Dedicate the evening to washing, drying, and folding clothes. Consider throwing in a load during your lunch break, if time allows.

Wednesday: Bathrooms – A thorough clean of all bathrooms. Wipe down counters, clean sinks and toilets, and give the shower a quick scrub.

Thursday: Bedrooms – Change bedding and do a quick dusting. Encourage children to help with their own spaces to teach responsibility.

Friday: Kitchen deep clean – Tidy away any excess clutter, wipe surfaces, and tackle the microwave and fridge.

Saturday: Family clean-up day – Involve the whole family in tidying up the house. Make it fun with music and perhaps promise a little treat afterwards.

Sunday: Rest and prep – Use this day to relax and prepare for the week ahead. A quick 15-minute tidy in the evening can set you up nicely for Monday.

Sticking to this schedule can make home maintenance more manageable while allowing you to focus on your job and enjoy quality time with your family. Remember, it's perfectly fine to adjust the plan as needed to fit your family's unique rhythm!

The Best Daycare Hacks: 20 Ways to Save Your Sanity As a Working Mum

As a working mum, juggling the demands of your career and the needs of your little ones can often feel overwhelming. Yet, with a few clever hacks tucked away in your parenting toolkit, you can navigate this bustling life with a bit more ease. Here are some tried and tested tips to help streamline your daycare routine and preserve your sanity.

1. The Night Before Prep: Spend a few minutes each evening preparing for the next day. Lay out clothes, pack lunches, and fill water bottles to reduce morning chaos.

2. Create a Checklist: A handy checklist for what to pack each day can save you from forgetting essentials. Consider a laminated version that you can reuse.

3. Meal Batch Prep: Dedicate a weekend to batch cooking and freezing meals. This way, you’ll always have something healthy on hand for those rushed evenings.

4. Use a Shared Calendar: Keep a family calendar app that everyone can access. Sync up activities and commitments to avoid last-minute surprises.

5. Choosing the Right Daycare: Invest time in researching daycare options that align with your values and flexibility needs. A centre that mirrors your parenting style can ease your mind.

6. Utilise Technology: Many daycare facilities provide apps for parents to communicate with caregivers. Regular updates on your child’s day can help you feel more connected.

7. Implement a Morning Routine: A consistent morning routine can provide structure for both you and your child. Familiarity can help reduce anxiety for everyone.

8. Pack Smart: Use a ‘grab and go’ bag packed with all the essentials, so you’re not scrambling last minute. Include snacks, toys, and comfort items for your child.

9. Create a Drop-off Ritual: A special goodbye ritual can ease the transition between home and daycare, reassuring your child that they'll be okay.

10. Stay Connected with Other Parents: Building a network with fellow parents can provide support and share tips, making the life of a working mum feel a little less lonely.

These simple yet effective hacks are designed to streamline your daily routines and provide a sense of balance, allowing you to embrace both your career and motherhood with less stress. Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for you and your family.