A creative cleaning tip shared by a parent on Reddit has gained significant attention, offering a practical solution for managing household clutter caused by children. This advice resonates with many parents facing the daily struggle of maintaining order in homes filled with toys and other items.
In a discussion thread dedicated to simple cleaning methods, a Reddit user recounted a valuable tip received from another mother during their parenting journey. This technique instantly transforms a messy room into a more organised space. The parent explained, “When my kids were little, another mom gave me a tip that was a game-changer. It was a way to instantly make a room feel clean and refreshed.”
The innovative method involves using an affordable plastic garden rake to gather scattered items, including toys, birthday party favours, and other miscellaneous clutter. The user suggests sweeping the mess towards the centre of the room and then transferring everything into a decorative basket or a container designated for storage in the garage.
The parent further advised, “Leave it in the garage and see if anyone misses anything. If not, curate at your leisure.” They clarified that while they never discarded items of sentimental value, they found that many belongings simply occupied space without serving any purpose. “It was like a breath of fresh air to weed that stuff out,” they added.
The response from fellow Reddit users highlights the community’s appreciation for this practical approach. One commenter stated, “I love this! I throw away about one Happy Meal type toy per month,” while another remarked, “This is brilliant, I love it.” A third user added humorously, “You will rake up a lot of the dog hair while you are at it!”
Other parents contributed their own creative strategies for managing household clutter. One individual shared their unique solution, referring to a high shelf in their kitchen as “Toy Hospice.” This designated area serves as a holding spot for toys that go unclaimed for two weeks before being discarded.
Another parent described their habit of tidying up by putting away one or two items whenever they get up to do something. This method helps maintain order, especially during periods of illness, and facilitates a more manageable environment. They noted, “When they were napping, we’d put a few things in a closet, then a couple of weeks later, rotate.”
Discussion participants also suggested practical time-saving techniques, including setting a 10-minute countdown to tackle as much cleaning as possible before the alarm goes off. Others recommended keeping a squeegee in the bathroom to wipe down surfaces after each shower, reducing build-up and maintaining cleanliness.
One insightful user suggested dedicating time to a small organisation project each week, such as cleaning the junk drawer or organising the pantry. This consistent approach ensures that homes remain at a basic level of cleanliness, effectively managing clutter over time.
The engaging exchange on Reddit highlights the creativity and resourcefulness of parents everywhere. Simple yet effective methods like the garden rake technique not only inspire others but also foster a sense of community among those navigating the challenges of parenthood.
