If You Want to Simplify Your Home *Start Here* (5 spots to tackle first)

[@HaleyVillena]

Which of these five areas would you simplify first? 🤔

[@Doraclips786]

Lazyness cleaning home not eazy 😢

[@bookworm1956]

Always start with The Thing that is most annoying or overwhelming in everyday life. If that's cleaning products, start there. If it's the kitchen drawer overflowing with cutlery, start there. If it's the pile of stuff in the entryway, start there. Whatever annoys you most.

[@LearnGermanwithMarzipanfrau]

@@bookworm1956Yes, I totally agree. ❤

[@lyssaharsin6837]

We had a cat that was allergic to the cleaning products. Quickly switched to vinegar, baking soda, soap and just a little bleach when needed. Made cleanig quicker and a lot more pleasant smelling.

[@Yosemirame]

Could you recommend me the soap you are using pls? 🩷

[@HaleyVillena]

Hi Lyssa - thank you for sharing your experience!

[@lyssaharsin6837]

@@Yosemirame Dawn dish soap.

[@Nanatracie]

Yep I use all these minus baking soda, I bottle for cleaning with vinegar, soap and water for everything, dry dust wood or damp cloth, bleach down loo 😊

[@VironiaRoshdy]

Make sure not to use vinegar and bleach together because they release a toxic gas when mixed

[@lallalove235]

Please do not use vinegar on any type of stone. Granite, quartz, travertine, marble..etc. it will etch the finsh and dull the look of the stone. Please use dish soap. Do not dust the stone as well it will scratch the finish because of the debris it has in it. This comes from a professional cleaner who takes care of homes that have high-end textiles.

[@SueRaven-qn8tf]

You are 1000% right learned that the hard way brand new home cleaning quartz countertop with vinegar etched ruined completely … so saddd :/

[@hailey5558]

Agreed. Not to mention these "natural products" do NOT clean effectively.

[@vondee23]

Yes I too learned the hard way I would use my diy cleaner with vinegar on my kitchen counters and noticed over time they lacked that shine 😅 I love using water with vinegar and a bit of cornstarch with peppermint oil for my windows at home it smells great and works very well and I love that it’s safe for my son to use he’s now the window/mirror boy at home 😂

[@assiuuskallio2960]

The most sustainable way to get rid of products would likely be to just use them up (unless you can’t for eg health reasons) before switching to a simpler option

[@HaleyVillena]

I completely agree! Someone else suggested selling them or giving them away on marketplace too.

[@SweetStuffOnMonarchLane]

​@HaleyVillena Disaster relief (currently hurricane), too! Our local VFW asked their southern VFW friends what they needed, and they mentioned cleaning supplies as the #1 thing. Many times, you can find local people... or you hear about them on the news... who are just filling up a truck and taking supplies to places that need it after disasters. Our VFW leader is doing this this week. Another great place to donate is animal shelters and rescues! 🐕🐱🐈🐶🐩🐈‍⬛

[@veronikajennings3749]

Yes please start your videos on home made cleaners etc. as soon as possible it would make life so much easier and healthier. Thank you in advance

[@HaleyVillena]

Noted!

[@jeriheggie]

These were great! I especially liked your advice at the end to just take it slow. I was going to mention that about switching to natural cleaners: if there is no allergy or medical reason to cut them out then I would suggest just using them up and switch to natural as you go 😉

[@HaleyVillena]

Hi Jeri - thank you for the positive feedback, I'm so happy you got something out of it.

[@ear1421]

When I switched over my cleaning produces I gave away the old stuff on Facebook. I figured if someone was going to buy them anyway they might as well use mine up first.

[@HaleyVillena]

This is such a great idea! Thank you so much for sharing.

[@catherineclaire7429]

Glad you mentioned researching the responsible, safe disposing of commercial cleaning products.

[@yuvra649]

Great video! I too learned cleaning products just created weird buildup. For our floors i switched to steam mop with basic citric acid or vinegar spray. Such a huge difference. Absolutely amazing clean disinfected floors! From then on I've slowly moved towards home solutions for cleaning and steam shot for disinfection.

[@Abbe1133]

Watching this so I can get a head start with my new home 😁

[@bettinak.4]

For cleaning in the kitchen I use vinegar-water, vinegar/citric acid-baking soda and I use soap for cleaning the dishes. For my dishwasher I'm still searching for the right product. It's just the toilet where I still use the spesific toilet cleaner, but everywhere else I use the ingredients above and they work great. For my floors we have a high pressure water thing, I don't know what is the exact name in English, but Iove it sooo much, it's easy, quick and disinfects the floors and tiles.

[@debc315]

Where I live we have very hard water. I never felt comfortable using Limeaway toilet bowl cleaner I use Dr Bronner liquid castile soap , baking soda and white vinegar. Any scent will do I used Eucalyptis for a little extra cleaning. Let it sit a while and it works well. The bowl stays cleaner longer as it doesn't feel as though the bowl is etched like after the stronger cleaner

[@SweetStuffOnMonarchLane]

​@@debc315 This really works to remove hard water build-up? We have terrible hard water, too. Could you possibly share how you make it? I have never used those products, but I've always been interested in trying them. I just don't know which recipes work, the exact quantities, etc., and it'd be great to know from someone who actually uses them for the same issue I'm having instead of wasting time and product researching and "experimenting." I'd also be interested in one for cleaning the shower/tub if you're willing to share. 😀

[@Eegajd]

Yes to the simple cleaning routine recipes!!!!! I’ve paired down to those ingredients as well but find different recipes overwhelming and not sure what’s best!!

[@HaleyVillena]

I completely agree, I did just recently started doing this but I've found that they're working well so far. I'll share that video soon!

[@Betty-JoD]

I would love to see your simple cleaning routine. I need to be switching some of my cleaning products. Great video, tips and information!

[@HaleyVillena]

Thank you for the kind feedback Betty! That cleaning video is coming soon.

[@pixi78]

I just found your channel…..well actually I think the universe brought it to me when I needed it! I’ll be binging your content all weekend as I declutter my 3 bedroom home in preparation to sell and downsize to an apartment. I have a lot to get rid of 😅

[@nonashae]

Yesssss make the homemade solutions video like…..a really detailed one. We all need this info from someone who’s everyday is already on the track we wanna be on🙏🏽

[@EmL-kg5gn]

Some of these kitchen gadgets are actually designed for people with motor skill difficulties! They’re marketed to everyone to make production more viable. Some can also be useful for people with limited energy

[@HaleyVillena]

Yes thank you for mentioning this! Of course if there are legitimate needs for gadgets like these then it makes sense to keep them! 🤗

[@EmL-kg5gn]

@@HaleyVillena Yes! I just wanted to add this in case it was useful info for anyone 😊 This was a great video btw 💕

[@saraantonelli3586]

My husband and I have been making our own laundry detergent for about two years now. It takes up more space because of all of the things that we need but actually most we use and our every day life anyway. Definitely healthier and still smells great.

[@Yosemirame]

Omg we need that recipe pls!

[@HaleyVillena]

I'm making our own detergent now too! It's awesome. Would love to hear what your recipe is, I feel as though I need to tweak mine a little bit in the next batch.

[@saraantonelli3586]

@@HaleyVillena 1/2 cup epsom salt 1 1/2 cup baking soda 1 1/2 cup Washing soda 1/4 cup sea salt 20-25 drop essential oil Then I double or triple it and put it in a glass jar we saved from Costco that contained peaches 😊

[@saraantonelli3586]

@@Yosemirame added recipe

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

@@saraantonelli3586thank you for sharing. Is it ok for use in an HE washer? What amounts you use in your wash?

[@littleleafy]

We’ve been washing and reusing zip lock bags for years. Eventually they are ready to be discarded but they can last quite well

[@overflow7276]

Pro tip: by solid shampoo and shower gel bars. They take up way less space in the shower and also save plastic, money and are super easy to travel with, because you can also have them in your hand luggage.

[@HaleyVillena]

Funny you say this because I’m currently testing out solid shampoo and conditioner bars right now! 🥳

[@artgirlerina1797]

I’ve been making my own laundry detergent for almost a year now! (Since around November of last year!) and it has been great! I use 4 ingredients (washing soda, baking soda, Epsom salt and sea salt!) and if the load is in need of a little extra cleaning I add a splash of vinegar! I’m currently using up my current cleaning products but plan to do more simple and streamlined products to make it not only easier but safer for our house since we have little ones. Constant recalls on food and other things have definitely made me aware and weary of what we bring into our home and put into our bodies! I don’t but makeup truly, last time I bought any was for my wedding last year and before that, years. I’ve honestly berated throwing most of it out (which is a small hand bag with maybe 10 or less items) because of how little I actually use it. Cerave facial wash and lotion is my only skin care routine Those are just a few areas we’ve already simplified the past few years!

[@annmyers2883]

Hello Haley, I'm glad I found your KZbin videos today. I have now subscribed. I was brought up in Canada and recognize your accent and see the spelling differences. I like your straight forward ideas and how you make it simple for anyone to achieve a great goal. I would appreciate a video on cleaning recipes and ideas as I make most of my own cleaning products also. I do still use good old Comet or Barkeepers Friend powders. I will be looking for your video. Have a good week.😊

[@Carole616]

My mindset will not let me just throw out cleaning supplies I already have. I use up what I have and then replace the product with a sustainable version.

[@emilyk7851]

this was very interesting! especially the cleaning supplies - i’d like to switch to making at home cleaning recipes! I’d love to see a whats in your make up bag video! I have 0 make up and love your make up look!

[@donnav]

Would like a video on homemade cleaner recipes. I use a water/vinegar mix for almost everything and I would love some more specific recipes for cleaners

[@refinedsimplicity8420]

I make a soft “scrub” or cream cleanser by mixing dish soap and baking sofa to your desired consistency. It takes less than a minute to make and I use it on the bathtub, the kitchen sink etc. It works great on soap scum and other stubborn stains.

[@HaleyVillena]

Hi Donna - I'll be sharing this video soon!

[@HaleyVillena]

I do the same, it's very effective. Thanks for sharing.

[@Pn1086]

I look forward to your video about DIY cleaning products ❤

[@TheRealSueDenim]

Me too @hayleyvillena

[@TheRealSueDenim]

Oops @haleyvillena :)

[@Ludo_fiorentini19]

Thank you for these ideas 😍Btw does anyone know where I can find a makeup bag like the one she uses?

[@juliee2019]

Where is your makeup bag from? its a good choice that the brushes can be in there 🤩

[@BigSneeze58]

It is worth noting that cleaning and disinfecting are not the same. so if you are trying to kill germs, vinegar will not do that. That being said, if you are very "chemical conscious" there are other options besides something like bleach

[@HaleyVillena]

This is an important point for sure - thank you for sharing!

[@danicegewiss862]

Cleaning up dirt removes germs. We have become an over clean society. Our bodies sometimes require germs to become stronger.

[@leek7987]

Yes to diy cleaning product recipes.

[@j.celestekee658]

The only single-use kitchen gadgets I use regularly are a zester and a garlic press. Everything else is multi purpose!

[@HaleyVillena]

It’s amazing how a few well-chosen tools can make a big difference!

[@its_miss_bi]

Hello! Where is your black makeup storage box from? It looks nice!

[@teacherlovesbeauty]

I would love to see your cleaner recipes!❤

[@chiarasalvioni2757]

Where is your make-up bag from? It looks so elegant and simple and it would fit the minimal make-up I use while still keeping it organized

[@TashaWashington]

nuori getaway travel case set 😊

[@melissabologna3389]

Great video! What is in your capsule makeup and skin care. Can you go into detail? ❤

[@nicolefinnegan6059]

Please do a video on your cleaning solution recipes!!

[@Promisebeautyox]

I LOOVE this video, touching on over consumption of unnecessary products just bc its trending and influencers tell you to buy doesn't mean it'll work for you or benefit you. This conversation needed to be had. I definitely plan on being more mindful when it comes to products I don't need!

[@cb8962]

Please do a video on home recipes for cleaning products. Thank you! 😊

[@debchaffin]

minimalist is great and all but when you are married and your husband doesn’t want to get rid of things in “case you might need them in the future” there’s no way around it lol paper is one of those things that as much as i want out of my house my husband wants everything in it 😅

[@AndreeaDimaFotograf]

Same with my husband...

[@debc315]

Take care of your own papers and possessions

[@grooviechickie]

Same with mine. Thankfully he has a garage as his shed so nearly everything he wants to keep for "just in case" is stored in there. Also I accept that this is his way of living in the world. ❤

[@debc315]

The house is my area , I take care of his clothes , him and the house, his paperwork is his and the shed is his

[@406disneyfan2]

I’m working around my husband’s stuff. I have enough of my own to keep me busy without dealing with his for now. For example, I recently donated about 20 coats I no longer use, but his are still in the closet. Progress over perfection is my goal!

[@victoriainspain]

Try the “skin sobering” it’s change my life 🙌🏻 now have no any clutter in my bathroom. And don’t have to check for all cosmetic that comes to the market 👌

[@jeriheggie]

Skin sobering - that’s a great term.

[@sct4040]

Most people look worse with too much makeup on. Also, minimal ingredient skincare works better, Cerave, Vanicream, Petroleum Jelly are my favorite. Of course, sunscreens!

[@HaleyVillena]

Thank you for sharing this Victoria! I've just downloaded the e-book, it's quite an interesting perspective of skincare. I've personally found that my skin has become much better since reducing the amount of products I use too. Makeup would be difficult for me to completely get rid of though, concealer for my under-eyes is a must hahaha

[@LEVYNCE]

Where did u get your black Cosmetic bag from? That is so cool!

[@MaryJOliveTree]

I've been looking for one just like that (aesthetic and functionality) to gift my mom and I'd love to know where Haley's is from too!

[@Itshervee]

I would love to know too! I need a replacement for my old one

[@HaleyVillena]

Hi everyone - the cosmetic bag that I have is from a brand called "Nuori".

[@MaryJOliveTree]

Thank you @@HaleyVillena ! Have a lovely Sunday ☺

[@iammarccolomayt82094]

Everything = satisfying ❤

[@TawanaTerrellDesigns]

What color are your walls if you don’t mind me asking? Thanks🥰

[@emilys9782]

I would love a link to your makeup bag and brushes please.

[@morrisfamily68b]

How do you get those reusable zip bags thoroughly clean?

[@danaeli]

Hello! What brand or where'd you get the makeup bag you have? It seems perfect for my makeup set, right now they are residing in a big ziplock bag (it gets icky overtime). I know the video is about simplifying and avoiding unnecessary stuff, but I would like to have a nice container for it. I hope you see this, and thank you regardless.

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

She responded to another asking this same questions with “Nuori”.

[@danaeli]

@@SpeakTruthBeKind thank you!

[@haleynicole5439]

IMPORTANT PSA: Anyone using vinegar mixed with baking soda to clean: don't use them together. The chemical reaction (fun fizzing) they do together is essentially the acid and base cancelling out. The end product of mixing these two is H2O (water). Use one or the other!

[@heikeheikel3590]

@haleyVillena where is the Black make up bag from? 🙏🏼 love your content ❤️

[@ellasXS]

I would love a simple cleaning routine !

[@HaleyVillena]

You got it!

[@estoniaforever]

I love the Make-up bag you are showing in the video. Where can I find it?

[@TashaWashington]

nuori getaway travel case set 😊

[@NoOctopuss]

I can confirm we don't need shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc. I haven't used them in years and my daughter is two and has never been washed with anything more than water. Yeah, even so-called basics are unnecessary. But our culture (and companies dedicated to selling us stuff) says this is crazy so... But we do wash our hands with soap, and I do have makeup remover for the times I wear makeup. Love simple cleaning, but we get toilet cleaner and a degreaser as well (hard water is tough). We have a refill shop near us. We buy parchment paper a lot and sometimes foil but our glass containers and beeswax wraps take care of almost everything. I don't let food touch the beeswax wraps so they last longer. Really, it's crazy how little we actually need to live comfortably. I bought so much stuff in my 20s but I've reduced the amount significantly over the past couple decades. Life is easier with less.

[@moeshaashanti]

Where is your MakeUp Bag from ? 6:01

[@swaysaur]

I was wondering the same. It’s so classy and practical ❤

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

She responded to another person asking and said “Nuori”

[@jennyjenkins877]

We've simplified in all these areas except for the reusable products like stasher bags and beeswax wrap. I don't think I could convince my partner to switch and I'm not pushing it because I would be the one responsible for cleaning them.

[@HaleyVillena]

Hi Jenny - they certainly require more maintenance. Only take the jump when/if you're ready for it!

[@elizabethholt3477]

I've been hunting for a sturdy sided makeup bag. Can you link yours? It looks nice.

[@Haiokbai]

When I was a teen I would use the same pencil eyeliner until it was down to a little nub…..crazy to see how much teens and preteens are into makeup now :/

[@lsnider59]

Gave up all make up in my 50's

[@HerCupOfSimple]

Loved this!!!😊

[@HaleyVillena]

Glad to hear it, cheers!

[@EtherealZaftig]

I would like to see your recipes for the homemade cleaning supplies. I too would like a more natural solution.

[@starryleslie]

Please share your diy cleaning supplies recipe 😊

[@pittie9friendz]

I just wanted to suggest not using castile soap with vinegar, the vinegar cancels out the castile soap. If using vinegar it is recommended to use alone as it will kill more microbes. Castile soap as well can be used in many home made cleaning products but should not be mixed with vinegar as it takes away the functionality. What i use at home is a mix of hydrogen peroxide, detergent, water and a hint of tea tree oil. It is potent, kills microbes and is gentler than most on the market.

[@HaleyVillena]

Thank you for noting this! None of the recipes I use combine Castile soap and vinegar. When I use a paste in the shower and spray it, I use a dish soap with baking soda rather than Castile, for this very reason.

[@LikeJacklynn]

Hi, where did you get your make up bag from?

[@yadiaag7771]

I don’t like the homemade cleaning stuff. I can’t stand the smell of vinegar. Even when I clean my coffee machine I throw up at least three times. People say they can’t smell much after it’s dry, but why can I even if I use it sparingly? I feel like I’m the only one who notices.

[@bettinak.4]

You don't have to use vinegar. Use instead citric acid. Does the same but doesn't smell.

[@just-your-cup-of-tea]

For the paperwork, does anyone have any recommendations for what is essential to keep hard copies of vs scans or straight up unnecessary to hold on to? Recently started paying the bills /paperwork in my home after a death in the family and it’s been hard to get an idea of what’s important/not important to hold onto, I’ve just been keeping everything but the paperwork is definitely beginning to pile up

[@dashnduke]

I generally don't keep any actual bill paperwork as long as I have access to the account paying it, since they should have everything logged/history anyway. That's things like phone, gas/electric, internet, etc.

[@just-your-cup-of-tea]

@ Thank you for getting back to me! That makes sense

[@reallygoodatfolding]

I’ve never heard Eczema pronounced like that. In Australia we’re lazy and say Ex-ma 😂

[@alice_rabbit8345]

I ended up with a lot of different cleaning products. As I’m using them up I’m going to simplify what I use.

[@mokhikhan8382]

Thank you 😊

[@nikkiangelie]

Hi - this is unrelated to the video but where is your black makeup bag from? I've been looking for something just like it

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

Nuori getaway travel case set

[@GirGirGirGir160]

agreed on the skincare!!

[@ashbag666]

Would love a home cleaning recipe! I

[@tspirate]

The video is about simplifying your home. The speaker, Haley Villena, shares 5 areas to tackle first to simplify your home: * Cleaning products: Switch from commercial cleaning products to natural ingredients and homemade solutions. This can save space and be safer for your family. * Personal care and hygiene products: Pare down to the essentials that really work for you. This will simplify your daily routines and reduce clutter in your bathroom cabinets and drawers. * Kitchen items: Reduce clutter and opt for more sustainable alternatives. Get rid of single-use items and replace them with reusable ones. * Kitchen gadgets: Avoid single-purpose gadgets. Opt for versatile tools that can be used for multiple tasks. * Paperwork: Declutter, shred outdated documents, recycle junk mail, and go digital with important documents.

[@yourlocaltoad5102]

3:10 if sustainability is one of the goals, wouldn’t it be a lot better to use up the products instead of throwing them out?

[@HaleyVillena]

Absolutely - but like you mentioned "one of the goals" - in some cases, it's the use of toxins that may be the reason for getting rid of products. Someone else suggested selling or giving away the products too - that could be a better route than completely discarding them.

[@miisstoni]

would love a recipe video!

[@casn3424]

Thank you!🤍

[@sisu-agency]

Amazing!! Thank you

[@mariehall9514]

Would love a homemade cleaning products video

[@umchileanywaysso]

Yess diy cleaning solution

[@HaleyVillena]

Coming soon!

[@RebekahWolfXo]

The thing with going digital is that it can easily get lost. I did that and my hard drive crashed.

[@anastasiiachaham5690]

Where is your makeup bag from

[@SpeakTruthBeKind]

Nuori Getaway Travel Case Set

[@stacyhunter2710]

Yes. I want to make my solutions too. Help me please

[@cresentiae]

Thank you #SaveSoil #Consciousplanet

[@SuzannaWong-w7i]

isn't it very hard to wash those silicone bags?

[@HaleyVillena]

Hi Suzanna - I have tried two reusable bag brands, the first "Joie" were very difficult to clean due to the bottom folds, but we've since purchased a few from "W&P Porter" and they can be flipped inside out, making the cleaning process much quicker/easier! Hope this helps.

[@Bill-kj8io]

Figuring out where to start should not be that hard. Even if there are multiple paths to simplifying your home, there is still only one starting point. PURGING! You have got get rid of excess possessions. Get rid of clothing you don’t wear, duplicate items, your kids old toys… etc. If you’re not using an item right now and you don’t know of at least an approximate date in the future you are going to need it, then get rid of it.

[@HaleyVillena]

I hear you, for some people it's easy - but it can also be overwhelming for many people. I've witnessed some of my own loved ones go through it. Purging is easier said than done in a lot of cases! But I agree, it's generally a fantastic starting point.

[@Bill-kj8io]

Yes for some people purging is very difficult. For some people it is the absolute hardest part. That’s because they are hoarders or have hoarding tendencies. I’ve seen people make lists, buy basket to organize things, etc.. They feel like they’ve accomplished something, but they haven’t made any progress at all. They may have even made the problem worse. Until you start purging, you’re not actually accomplishing anything. Purging is really the only place to start.

[@nandilewis1111]

Ok I like that you simplified your make up. Your make- up container looks very simple...

[@MahteeAlive24]

vinegar and baking soda cancel each other out…

[@HaleyVillena]

I hear you! If they're mixed together, they're not so effective, but when applied in sequence (baking soda first, vinegar after) the fizzing action that's created can help dislodge dirt and grime. The baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive and deodorizer, and the vinegar provides acidity to dissolve certain residues.

[@NathanMilkie1]

As an extreme minimalist, I have no skincare routine & I hardly have any acne. My skin is controlled by my diet. Just eat healthier and you won't have bad skin.

[@amabillybeatrizreis8151]

Haley you don't have Instagram?

[@HaleyVillena]

Hi! I do not have Instagram anymore.

[@Bill-kj8io]

Simplifying the kitchen can go way beyond getting rid of specialty gadgets. Most people get way more cook ware than they need. Don’t buy a set of pots and pans. All you need are two large high quality skillets (if that), a medium sauce pot, a large stock pot, and a cookie sheet. I only say two skillets because you may want a stainless steel and a non-stick. They’re good for different purposes. You also don’t need many cooking utensils. Get a large chef’s knife, a small pairing knife, a pair of tongs, spatula, large metal stirring spoon, ladle (maybe), potato masher (maybe), fine-mesh strainer (maybe), measuring spoons, and measuring cups (liquid and solid measure). If you do have a stainless steel and non-stick skillet then get appropriate tongs and spatulas for each. Throw in a colander, cheese grater, and cutting board and that’s all the average person really needs in the kitchen.

[@HaleyVillena]

I agree! Thank you for sharing.

[@haenahab8719]

vinegar makes the house smell terrible...

[@Samantha12c]

🤍