For many neurodivergent individuals, traditional cleaning advice can feel more frustrating than helpful. It’s not about laziness or a lack of desire for a tidy space, but rather about the unique ways our brains approach motivation, decision-making, and sensory input.
The good news is that there are plenty of creative, and unique cleaning strategies out there that individuals can try to help encourage getting started. So, if standard routines don’t seem to work for you, check out some of these helpful hacks that might just change the way you approach your space.
Do one thing
When simply starting a task feels overwhelming, commit to doing one single thing like wiping down the kitchen counters, tidying a corner of your desk, or putting in a load of laundry. Often, this small action is enough to kickstart momentum. If it leads to more cleaning, great. If not, you still did something, and that counts too.
Beat the timer
Set a timer for however many minutes you feel comfortable with and challenge yourself to clean as much as possible before it goes off. This technique adds structure and can help minimize overwhelm knowing there is an end in sight. Short bursts of effort often feel more manageable and help reduce the pressure to finish everything.
One song cleanup
Music offers a variety of benefits, and it can also help with cleaning! Choose your favourite tune and tidy up for the length of it. When the song ends, you are done. It’s an easy, low-stakes way to stay engaged without feeling trapped in a long chore. Plus, it makes tidying feel more like a dance party than a to-do list.
The 5×5 method
This concept from The Secret Slob, is a quick and easy method to keep your home tidy. You choose five areas (like the kitchen, living room, bedroom, etc.) and spend just five minutes cleaning each one. In each area, try to do five small tasks like wiping surfaces, picking up clutter, or sweeping. It only takes 25 minutes, and helps you stay on top of cleaning without feeling overwhelmed.
Don’t put it down, put it away
This is a great way to manage clutter as well as keeping areas of your home clean. Rather than putting the mail on a table, deal with it immediately. Instead of placing clothes in a pile on the floor, put them directly into the laundry basket. Getting into this habit of putting items where they belong will keep you organized and help avoid messes from building up.
Make it a game
If you live with someone, not only can you divide up the responsibilities of cleaning, but you can also have some fun at the same time. If you are up for some friendly competition, see who can get the most done in ten minutes.
You can also create a short list of “challenges” that you need to accomplish. When completed, reward yourself with something like watching a show you enjoy or your favourite sweet (or savory!) treat. Not only will you feel accomplished, but you’ll get to do something fun afterwards.
Cleaning doesn’t have to follow conventional methods. Whether you’re timing yourself, turning it into a game, or working toward a reward the important thing is that it works for you, and helps keep your home neat and tidy!
