Whether you’re moving into a new home, getting ready to sell an existing home, or just staying put, getting (and keeping) your home neat and tidy is key to feeling calm and cozy for the fall season. After all, it’s hard to truly relax in a space that feels dirty and disheveled. The problem: Achieving a relaxing, comfy home takes work–and there’s nothing calm and cozy about sweeping, scrubbing, or sanitizing. Unless, that is, you intentionally make it that way.
One way to make the work feel, well, less like work: Incorporate a chore into something you’re already doing—aka habit stacking—to make your cleaning routine stick. We vote for picking something to clean while you wait for your coffee (or tea) to brew. Three to five minutes is the perfect chunk of time to achieve something meaningful without getting exhausted. Plus, you can do it in your pajamas.
Exactly how long you have to clean depends on your go-to brewing method. Regardless, you’ll finish with a sense of pride and a built-in reward: your morning cup. Need ideas? We’ve got you covered. Ahead, 7 things you can clean when you’re waiting for your coffee to brew every morning.
Clean your microwave
A microwave is essential for your next Netflix binge session, but a dirty microwave can put a real damper on your Rings of Power marathon. Luckily, as long as you have the right tools on hand, you can take your microwave from splattered to sparkling in just a few minutes. Here’s how: Fill a microwave-safe bowl with two cups of water and two cups of distilled white vinegar, and cook it for three minutes. Let the steam work its magic for a minute before opening the door, then wipe the inside with a microfiber cloth. Along with neutralizing smells, the vinegar steam will cut through grease and grime, making it easy-peasy to wipe down–so it’s 100% ready for movie night.
Spruce up your sofas
Your couches, sofas, and loveseats are supposed to be one of the most inviting places in your home. If they’re feeling less-than-inviting, take a few minutes to straighten up the back and seat cushions, fluff your throw pillows and put them where they belong, and fold any blankets. They’ll feel like new when it’s time to lounge!