The Two Cleaning Tasks that Will Keep (or Get) Your Home Out of Disaster Status

[@flutterbuyz]

Dana, you are absolutely gorgeous, I am a 75 year old woman living alone with my adopted greyhound and suffer from depression after the death of my son, so my tiny apartment is a cluttered disaster zone BUT now I have found you I'm so happy ... cant stop laughing, you're too funny and oh so bright, and yes I am now going to do the washing up. Thank you darling, you're wonderful and I'm going to pretend you are my granddaughter and drop in to see you every couple of days !!!

[@makaylar.6722]

I hope it's getting easier and you're doing alright ❤ love from texas

[@kevinanddeb8829]

I either read or watched a KZbin about anxiety and depression and the example was inability to even fill the dishwasher. The person told the therapist they were overwhelmed trying to do dishes because they had to scrape and rinse first. The therapist said just load the dishwasher. But then I would probably have to run it twice to get them clean.... therapist said then run it twice. Stop doing things exactly the way you think they have to be done. Just do something. You're overwhelmed, it's ok to run the dishwasher twice. It was what finally helped her start moving forward.

[@meman6964]

Al-anon sponsor, "How do you handle that?" (I called with the panic-of-the-day) I answer her question. She replies, " Don't do that"... okay, what should I do? She: " Something, anything else, remember definition of insanity". Genius!!

[@KK7THK]

I struggle with depression (have for over 25 years)- and dishes were the trigger for me. I now unload in the morning, laid throughout the day, run it at night when we go to bed. Rinse repeat. And on days where we don’t have enough to fill the DW? Our dishwasher has a “rinse only” cycle. 12 minutes. Run it- walk away. It loosens all the dried on gunk, and I don’t have to scrub or scrape. If anyone has this cycle- use it on the bad days. And if you don’t? Start a load without soap and time it. Shut it off after 10-12 minutes. Run it later when it’s full.

[@l.a.w.79]

WOW!!!!!

[@ginafuller1654]

I read this on an ADHD forum earlier this year and it completely changed my mindset regarding cleaning and giving myself permission to accomplish tasks and release the guilt for not being perfect. It has made a HUGE difference in my life. Wash the dishes twice, run a half load, do what works for you!! Don’t do things the way you’re “supposed to” if they don’t serve you.

[@TheNinnyfee]

Absolutely true, even do just part of the dishes, done is done. Dishes are my weak spot as well, so I start with one glass. Then I tell myself, "If you can do one, you can do another one..." Even just three glasses are better than nothing.

[@TrayOfKimbap]

As an asian and never had/will have automated dishwashers, our technique for avoiding piles of used dishes: to wash your own plate & cutlery right after eating, wipe your own placemat, then someone can be assigned to wash the serving dishes. We teach our kids from an early age to help out, do their own laundry, even if having homework or a housekeeper. That's how we manage even with large households.

[@I_am_enigma53]

Never go to bed without cleaning your kitchen. It makes a world of difference in the morning to wake up to a clean kitchen.

[@pragawa]

You're so right!

[@kendspan212]

My motto! 🙌🏼 I also pick up all the toys and everything that is out of place before bed. That way I start each day fresh.

[@theurbanthirdhomestead]

I really need this to be a habit.

[@stephanieporter6836]

Who wants to wake up to a sink of dirty dishes?? Not me!! I have a nightly routine--doing the dishes, getting the coffee ready to go for the next morning, and picking up before going to bed. Start the day fresh!

[@SS-iw2nq]

Agree! I'm an extremely cluttered person but always wash dishes right away, take out trash daily, and keep bathroom surfaces clean. Not worth the hassle of gnats, roaches, etc in the kitchen! Plus left over food on dishes can stink up the house quickly.

[@dharma6481]

We “close the kitchen” around 7pm: Dishwasher on (full or not), pots cleaned and draining, trash out and counters wiped. Bonus of this is no late night snacking. I “open the kitchen” when I get up around 6:30: Unload dishwasher, put away pots, coffee on and start meal prep for day. Dishwasher being empty means all day everyone puts dirty dishes in - no pile in the sink ever.

[@yelenatsytsyn]

JNT Florida: Where do you keep the pots that won’t fit in dishwasher that are draining? On a towel or in the sink?

[@ichh6212]

@@yelenatsytsyn for example or wherever they can dry overnight and what works for your kitchen. You'll find your way. 😊👍

[@Marialla.]

This is an interesting idea. My family has different bedtimes/wakeup times, but I'm wondering now whether I could at least do a limited "closed" policy for a few hours at night. This is worth a think and experiment. I believe I'll set some Command hooks and a little string with loops on the end across the doorway to remind us it is closed. Before "closing" I'll remind folks it is soon to close, so any last snacks/water they want must be gotten now, but I think I will disallow use of dishes that need washing. Paper plates/cups only.

[@Silly-Little-Mama]

I have a time I close my kitchen too. The kids can have food after that, but they have to ask permission (i usually suggest they eat something that doesn’t require dirtying another dish, like string cheese). I just want to keep them from making a mess of my kitchen. Just let it be for a few hours! The endless daytime snacking is the next thing I’m working on.

[@rosemariealvarado9902]

Dana, you brought a smile to my face when I saw your topic for today . I had just started the dishes! My husband died on April 10th and I have heard your voice in my head. When you don't know where to start DO THE DISHES After 45 months of increasing care for my dear husband of 52 years I feel lost not knowing what to do without the intense routine required for his care. Do the dishes. Thank you so much. Your books came in his last week. I am looking forward to begin reading once my brain begins working again . You've kept me focused in at least one area. Thank you! One never knows how we can help one another. Blessings are mine from you!

[@DanaKWhite]

I am so sorry for your loss, Rose.

[@rosemariealvarado9902]

Thank you so much, Dana!

[@sherrycarr-smith7256]

I know you didn't ask, but the most important thing i learned after my first husband died is this: however you mourn is how you're supposed to mourn. There is no timeline or right way to deal with everything from your home to how often you cry. I am so sorry your husband died. Please give yourself grace.

[@ritamckenna6788]

I am so sorry for your loss.

[@buffer1954]

Bless you Rose Marie🙏🤞

[@cindymonk6994]

Doing the dishes broke through years of inertia and now my whole house is getting decluttered, Thank you for including ideas for folks with chronic pain. It gave me permission to go slow.

[@lilaboss6894]

Agreed!!

[@nicoleolney3238]

Oh man ladies-same!! Now, I don’t actually despise doing the dishes either!! Life. Changing. ✋🏼

[@miarenee6703]

Same,Cindy! Chronic pain is a thief of joy.

[@joycetheobald1717]

Getting that kitchen sink emptied and the countertops wiped, gives me a sense of accomplishment even on my worst days. Never give up those little victories!🤗

[@silvergirl7810]

Boy, I sure “get” the pain thing having fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue- among other things. It’s soooo hard to do anything some days - that’s why I have wipes for those time I can’t even take a shower so dishes- I’m laughing. But... having a plan of attack is so important- even for those who are helping or should be- at least they know. At least it’s a starting point- it’s helped. And, I’ve really gotten on people in my house to stay up on every dish- it’s helped.

[@DemirelliProductions]

I just stopped in to say that I am glad to see a house that looks like someone lives in on a daily basis and not a magazine cover. I always feel worse when I see someone talking about decluttering and their house looks immaculate.

[@Kate98755]

agree with your comment, life is busy and messy, i want people to be encouraged and not judged, life is also short, so clean but relax and enjoy something every day

[@pragawa]

Yes!!!

[@workin4alivin585]

Yes! Great post.

[@DiniBrum]

My mother-in-law has a pillow that says dull women have immaculate homes... So basically if our homes aren't immaculate it means we're actually doing things with our lives 👌

[@workin4alivin585]

@@DiniBrum Exactly. One time, my mom (of 5 kids, who also worked full time) once said, people are either coming to see me or my house. Those who come to see the house aren't friends and won't be back, those who are friends won't care and will be back. Either way it works out well. 😅

[@TheKeyMargo]

My Mom always said the first step of any recipe was “First, fill your sink with soapy water.”

[@staceykersting705]

yeah, I always fill a bowl from the last meal or even a clean one. Why waste a whole sinkful of soap and hot water for a sandwich plate and a knife? Sometimes just a drop of soap on the cloth or sponge.

[@silvergirl2847]

You know what she meant Stacey. making a sandwich isn't a recipe don't you know😊

[@llamasugar5478]

My 2 things I do when I can’t do anything else: clean up dishes & wipe bathroom sink. 🏆 BEST TIP: I get distracted easily, so I have a rule-if I’m cleaning the (living room) and find something that belongs in the (hall), I take the item there, then GO STRAIGHT BACK TO THE ROOM I LEFT. Otherwise, I end up like the kid in the If You Give A Mouse A Cookie book. Half-done jobs everywhere.

[@judyclark8204]

That’s me!!

[@gillianmcquarrie2829]

If I'm tired and overwhelmed by a huge load of dishes I always tell myself just to wash the cutlery (I don't have a dishwasher). Washing the cutlery always makes it easier to tidy the dirty plates, etc and clears a bit of counter space, giving me a psychological advantage. Then I tell myself to wash the cups. Before I know it, I've done the plates and bowls, pots and pans. Another approach I used was to get each kid to choose what dishes they wanted to wash. They would rush to do the easy stuff. (Cutlery or plates vs. pots if you know what I mean..) I never minded finishing up with the pots and pans and it made it just a 5 minute task for each of us. Thanks so much, Dana, for your encouragement and advice. It sings to me ;)

[@grutarg2938]

If I'm overwhelmed with a huge load of dishes, I wash what's in the sink first. Once the sink is empty, it makes washing the other dishes easier.

[@gillianhochmuth2246]

This is incredible great idea for people without dishwashers when the kitchen gets overwhelming. Just wash all the silverware to get started. I’ve used a similar method for when the dishes get out of control & I have a dishwasher. I go through the piles & find ALL of the utensils, including spatulas, whisks, reusable straws & the tops of all the water bottles & to-go cups. As I go through the piles, I throw away napkins, scrap plates & cookware, power spray the cookware & group like items together (serving bowls with cereal bowls, cutting boards with casserole dishes, etc). Once all the utensils are loaded, I load cups & glasses. I challenge myself to “make it fit”, but still come out clean. (Glasses where the plates go, cups on top of the handles of utensils that have to go on the top rack, etc) Usually when it gets so bad that I have to use this method, the dishwasher is full & I run it on the 1-hour or express cycle. This works most of the time because the items aren’t really dirty. I wipe down or rinse off the area where the dishes go to dry. While the dishwasher’s running, I hand wash all of the items that can’t go in the dishwasher because either it has to be hand washed or it doesn’t fit in the dishwasher. I also scrub anything that has burnt on or stuck food, but can go in the dishwasher. If the dishwasher is still running after I finish this, I start hand drying the items starting with the biggest. (If the cookie sheet isn’t propped upright against the cabinet, there’s a visible difference once it’s put away.) When the dishwasher finishes, I open it to let the steam out & finish the hand drying. By the time I’m done, the dishwasher has cooled enough to be unloaded. Anything that needs to “air” dry goes where all of the hand wash items were. After I unload, I load all the bowls and any pots & pans that “will fit & still get clean” from “cleanest” to “dirtiest”. I start the dishwasher, then finish drying the “air” dry items. By now I usually just have a pot or two & the casserole dishes & cutting boards. If any of these items are difficult to fit in the dishwasher or especially dirty, I hand wash it. If there’s not a “full load” but enough that dinner dishes won’t all fit, I hand wash it. Usually now all dishes are done. Then I finish “cleaning” the kitchen, wipe down the counters & stove, etc. Then when I unload, I also put away everything that I hand washed. If anything has been put in sink, I load it. Now my kitchen looks like it’s supposed to before dinner. And I don’t have to spend all day trying to remember to keep the dishes going.

[@laurenkil]

This is genius I always do it the opposite way but starting with the less awesome would work

[@no_peace]

I can't handle soaking dishes, especially in the sink, but I have a small tub for soaking cutlery and it's so much easier. Utensils are so much grosser than almost anything else in our house, or they just have peanut butter on them and it takes forever to get off. I have a soapy water tub that i dump and refill every day, and put all utensils there until I do the dishes. It's hardly any work to get them clean after that

[@gapeach51170]

We have four boys ( all grown now ) , but when they were younger up until they moved out we would do a 15m clean up. I would tell them...let's set a timer, work really fast , spend 15m on tiding up and then the rest of the day is yours. It was amazing what 5 people could get done in 15m even when they were little. :)

[@joycetheobald1717]

Smart Mama!

[@JennsCorner777]

OMG you're a mothering GENIUS! Our 3 boys groan over chores I don't know what to do with them. Thanks for this idea I'm going to use it!

[@gapeach51170]

@@JennsCorner777 , hope it works. Sometimes I would tell them there was a surprise at the end if they did a really good job and worked really fast and I would give them ice cream or take them to the park or whatever little thing I knew they would be excited about :)

[@JennsCorner777]

@@gapeach51170 OK I'll try that too thank you!

[@jeannedigennaro6484]

Works for getting kids to start homework. Have them work in shorter bursts, 15 or 20 minutes at a time with a break in between.

[@kwelchans]

Game-changer for me: When I'm cooking dinner, there is almost always some period or periods of time that I don't have to be actively doing anything (usually while something is baking or simmering). Those few minutes are golden. I use that time to deal with whatever dishes I am done with. I load the dishwasher, I start a sink of soapy water and handwash what needs to be handwashed, etc. This means that by the time we sit down to eat, my kitchen is already almost clean. That makes it so much easier to finish the cleanup after eating.

[@cindyhuebert1616]

I do that too!

[@nikkimcdonald4562]

Same here 👍

[@pragawa]

I do this, too, most evenings! 🙂

[@goldenretrievermom7945]

YES I love doing this. Especially if I'm just microwaving lunch or something that only takes 4 minutes, I can be emptying the dishwasher during the wait time!

[@kwelchans]

@@goldenretrievermom7945 it always amazes me how much I can get done in just those few minutes, and how much easier it makes the after-dinner cleanup.

[@debbieriddle9429]

I wash my dishes as I cook...always have. Mama taught me that many years ago. Clean up is a breeze.

[@pamelagoodson9034]

I do this as well. My grandmother always did this. My mother on the other hand who really loves to clean doesn’t. My grandmother told her “you could have toothpicks and water for supper and still mess up the whole kitchen”. 😊. I don’t like to make the bed 😫

[@debbieriddle9429]

@@pamelagoodson9034 That's funny! Toothpicks and water...lol Need to use that one on my husband. I'm not crazy about making the bed either, but my master bath is through my bedroom, so for my own sanity, I usually make it after...my first cup of coffee. Coffee first.

[@debimorsette1685]

I’ve been decluttering 30-60 mins daily, with the exception of Christmas, for the past two weeks. My mom passed away in July. I hadn’t wanted to tackle her clothing and shoes for another few months but the weather turned cold here in Vicksburg, MS, two days ago. I got to thinking that Mom had a lot of nice warm coats, jackets, sweaters, long sleeve tops and blue jeans. So I pulled all those items, bagged them up and drove over to our Family Shelter Thrift Store. I labeled 4 huge bags with the kind of items in them plus I had 4 big boxes with items from my closet, shoes, purses, clothes. It felt so good to get those bags and boxes out of the house knowing those items could benefit others. Thanks for all,your tips, Dana, and keep the, coming. Debi. 🥰🥰

[@dawnaskey4975]

I lost 100 pounds in a year by making one good decision a day. If I made that my first choice of what I ingested, I found that I was much more likely to continue making good (or at least better) decisions all day. This is why I make my bed ASAP in the morning. I will continue making better decisions about decluttering, and putting things away ASAP (within reason) and doing the dishes if I make my bed. This works for me. But I fully understand your point of not making the bed doesn't create more problems for the rest of the day like dirty dishes does. For me, making the bed is proactive and doing dishes is reactive. Reactive IS a proper response to dirty dishes though!

[@carriebass4325]

Congratulations! I'm sure you feel awesome after all that hard work. 💪😁 You're completely right that it's easiest to tackle from small habits. I'm working on my small habits and I'm finding it's like a snowball rolling downhill. ❤️

[@tendeluna4786]

Thank you

[@josephinenelan4204]

The bed making thing is good for me and I notice the ease of tidying throughout the day when I do that, but when my husband is home, I love the way this lady says the kitchen impacts the flow more than the bed. He likes to sleep longer than me, and I cannot make the bed in a timely manner when he's home. At least I get half of the week to myself LOL

[@maryinsanfrancisco]

Making your bed every day sets your day in motion, and it gets your momentum going. AND it's something you do for yourself: a made bed is pleasing to the eye and how nice is it to melt into a neat bed at night? I agree with doing the dishes and a five minute pickup every day, I would just add "make your bed" to the list, too.

[@josephinenelan4204]

@@maryinsanfrancisco Can't do it "for myself" right away when a spouse sleeps in for 1-3 hours after I get up. lol. We have different sleep requirements. I need 6-7 hours and he needs 9 hours to fully sleep. But I've learned that having a nice throw blanket makes it so the occasional nap doesn't mess the bed up again in the afternoon! And makes it feel like money well spent when it's actually functional!

[@KittyBeats85]

The "doing the dishes daily" rule has changed my life. I walk around the house and I'm able to breathe because my counters are clear and I don't have dishes hanging over my head all day. And now I'm doing 5 minute pick up at night with my kids, and it keeps their clutter under control. Thank you Dana! 🥰💗

[@graceday7203]

If I'm in a room and feeling overwhelmed, I tell myself that I will pick up/put away10 things that need to be put away. Actually counting those items makes it a game and less of a chore. Usually there aren't even 10 items that need to be put away, or once in awhile there are actually a few more... but it's motivator for me and helps me push through from drudgery to make it something fun and productive. I'm guessing the timer does the same thing.

[@megfeeley2559]

I live in a small one-bedroom apartment with a 5 x 7 kitchen with no dishwasher. I recently updated my kitchen, replacing the sink, faucet and countertops, and Ms. White, I bought a smaller sink with an attached drainboard. From a 20 x 25 to a 16 x 18 sink (which is also a bit deeper). I reduced my 'container' for dirty dishes, while making the clean dishes container more generous, making it much easier to put things away. This makes it necessary to do my dishes much more regularly and the result is that I'm tossing together my homemade meals all the more quickly, and I've been much more rigorous in my decluttering of housewares and dishes. Your work informs my life daily, but this piece was a surprise.

[@silverflame_firebug]

Agreed 100%. Working on decluttering. I call these progress days. But on the crazy days, the long days, the "I just can't anymore" days I give myself permission to maintain. Maintain days mean that all I have to do is deal with post-dinner cleanup and emptying/reloading the dishwasher. It may not be as good as moving forward, but it's better than falling back. P.S. Reid's comments are hilarious. Kudos. :)

[@jillianguilford5191]

I have those kind of days - thanks for that idea - cause it's hard for me many days. I'm thinking of putting up a post it for this

[@korywood1052]

I won’t let my husband get rid of the horribly outdated under the counter cassette radio because I’ll try to race the song and get my dishwasher emptied before a song is over. Making it fun is half of it right!

[@sherryhudson9075]

You could play that song on ur playlist on your phone

[@korywood1052]

@@sherryhudson9075 true. It’s all about the action of pushing the button lowering my hand to the handle of the dishwasher and opening it up and go!

[@dazywings]

@@korywood1052 Yes it is! New tech is not as satisfying as old tech! You cant slam down a phone to hangup on a scammer with a cell phone ( unless you like buying replacement phones) The windup timer sitting on my countertop ticks away at me and when it buzzes it is super motivating- my phone alarm, not so much, especially with that snooze feature!

[@missheju169]

That a good idea

[@joycetheobald1717]

I use my stove timer sometimes. I like to see how much I can do within 10 mins. I handwash the dishes. 🙃

[@dawnlittle946]

TOTALLY RECOMMEND THE TAKE YOUR HOUSE BACK COURSE!!!!!!! It has changed my life!!!! Is my house magically where I want it - no, has it made more progress than in any other 4 months? Most definitely!!!!! Love the Sass warning 😂

[@lisadearing5960]

I have dishes in my sink that I was too tired to do yesterday! My husband and I are both recuperating from COVID and the grass really needed cut last night because we are getting snow today!🤦🏼‍♀️ We were both so tired after we got done that the dishes were neglected! I will do them today...I promise! Update: dishes are done! Yay!

[@carynwood9158]

I'm long haul covid. I feel you. Baby steps.

[@lisadearing5960]

@@carynwood9158 that’s what I keep telling myself but dang it’s so frustrating!

[@rosepistilli223]

Give yourself permission to do paper plates!!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️ Hope you feel better soon!

[@lisadearing5960]

@@rosepistilli223 I have some being delivered from Sam’s Club soon! Thank you for your kind words. 🙂

[@thatswhatisaid8908]

My dishes are still sitting in the sink. I had a terrible day, and what is overwhelming tonight, won't be tomorrow. Things always look better in the morning.

[@dicedrice7216]

The reason the military makes people get up and make their bed first thing in the morning it's not about having a neat bed, it's about getting up and doing something immediately when you wake up so that you have momentum going towards action rather than inaction. When I wake up I tackle the worst cleaning job in my house: cleaning the litter boxes. It doesn't matter what you do, the important thing is do you take immediate action instead of lolling around with the hope that you'll be inspired to be active later. It works well for me because I'm not a morning person and I'm too groggy to even realize what I'm doing and an hour later I don't even remember that I cleaned the cat boxes.

[@ah5721]

I'm not a morning person either. This gives me hope

[@charleyme]

Your eyes are soooo beautifully blue in this video. You are beautiful on the inside and out and are blessing us all with the tools to see the beauty in our own lives

[@valerielucille3204]

She has beautiful teeth as well!

[@mieander]

I noticed her eyes as well :)

[@jweygwey]

Yes, I agree.

[@shellyaubey7347]

Have never had a dishwasher. But agree, staying on top of dishes makes SO much of a difference in how I feel.

[@barbarap6851]

You are absolutely right! Dishes, trash, laundry, 5 minute pickup...keeps it from going down the tubes

[@grinning_owl]

I have a tip when it comes to washing dishes, which will help with other areas of house cleaning. This works no matter if you use a dishwasher or if you wash everything by hand. When you're washing, include non-kitchen items that you usually clean by dusting, such as knick knacks, vases, candle holders, empty candy dishes, barware, toothbrush holders, and/or items used for decorating walls or tabletops, such as plates, platters, wine glasses, decorative bowls, etc. You don't have to grab them all, just pick one or two from your rooms each time you get ready to do the dishes.

[@HomeGypsy]

That’s a great idea, thanks!

[@grinning_owl]

@@HomeGypsy Glad you liked the idea. And because I hate to clean kitchen appliances, here's what I do to keep some clean. I store our crock pot, blender and food sealer machine on top of the fridge. They can quickly get dirty up there, so I now place a piece of saran wrap across the top. If we're out of plastic wrap, I cover them with kitchen towels. Saves me from having to wash them before using them. Years ago, I also used to place plastic wrap across the top of the fridge. I hated having to dust up there. So, I when it came time to clean it, I would simply peel off the layer of plastic wrap and place a new clean layer on it. Just call me "Lazy". :-)

[@thebaroness2977]

​@grinning_owl oooh ~ great idea for the top of higher cabinets, too... Thank you!

[@grinning_owl]

@@thebaroness2977 My mother would use sheets of old newspapers or paper grocery bags (cut to fit with scissors) on the upper cabinets. Since no one could see up there, it didn't matter that it wasn't pretty shelving paper. She would just toss the dirty paper and replace it with fresh paper.

[@swampsagacity4685]

Taking out the trash could & often should be added to the 5 minute pick up task since it has the same snowball effect as a kitchen full of dirty dishes.

[@Stormy_Dawn]

That could be a part of either one. I would hope it would go without saying to take out an overstuffed trash though.

[@swampsagacity4685]

@@Stormy_Dawn You think it would also go without saying that we should pick up after ourselves & not gather so much clutter.... yet here we are. 😆 Great video, great advice.

[@Stormy_Dawn]

@@swampsagacity4685 agreed, lol. An overflowing stinky trash is not as easy to ignore as a jacket or shoes just laying around though. This reminds me, I have dishes to do. Haha!

[@adrianekeils4120]

@@Stormy_Dawn tell that to my kids and husband! They can ignore trash to the ceiling.

[@karatethechaoswithkiki5368]

Yes, taking out the trash is my first "go to" and then the dishes. Oh, how it makes a big difference!

[@krembry08kentucky]

Mind blown about the making the bed vs not having dishes done. Great point!!!

[@tawnytuppence5573]

Dana, thank you for this. I knew I had heard somewhere that I needed to do the dishes, if nothing else, and it was you. My husband had a huge, scary surgery a month ago, and whenever I’d come home from visiting him to my house full of crazy, I’d tuck everyone in and remember you saying, “Just do the dishes.” If the kitchen was okay, my mind was okay enough. And when neighbors came to drop off dinners, there was a clean spot on the counter for it to go. Do the dishes. I have this advice to someone just yesterday, and I’m going to tell her it was from you. Thanks Dana,

[@shwy900]

I agree a clean kitchen gets me going on cleaning and decluttering another room.

[@BedeSisters]

That “sass warning” needs to be a T-shirt. Please.

[@DanaKWhite]

On it! That’s a great idea.

[@UtahTabby]

@@DanaKWhite Make it "Sass level 9/10" because Covid has made it lose it more than I'd like to admit...... I need that shirt to warn people.

[@dicedrice7216]

Maybe make it a set, like underwear that has days of the week on it. Sass level: 7/10 Sass level: 8/10 Sass level: 9/10 Sass level: 10/10 Sass level: 11/10 Sass level: 15/10

[@JodyLifeofAMom]

I will buy this tshirt. 😂

[@carolinereynolds2032]

I've only begun watching these decluttering KZbins but you are the first to mention getting the children to help. Even a toddler could help by passing you things from the dishwasher. Mightn't be much help but it's a start.

[@jayl6238]

I love the ‘Sass level’ warning 😂 😂 😂

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

😂🤣😂

[@greatauntlizbethg9137]

I hit like just for the sass level warning and am writing this comment 5 words into the video. 😂😆

[@greatauntlizbethg9137]

Watch first min, hung clor6hes to air dry, put on load of washing, clear3d space on the sink, turnd vid back on, did maybe 2/3 of dishes while watching u.

[@alexandrafields7390]

That warning literally made me hit subscribe before I even saw a second of the actual video haha. I am so excited!

[@brightpage1020]

Yes this was awesome!

[@nicolaclements1477]

As a currently pregnant person, 5 mins is all I can do before I need to sit down again, so this is very encouraging for me. Thank you!

[@lovetheory9769]

Less than 2 mins in and I'm already like I LOVE HER!!!

[@jmljasmine]

I just wanted to add, thanks to your video, I did dishes and a 5 minute pick up. My mood is better from it.

[@lilstars5599]

I put an MIA'S(most important areas) magnetic whiteboard on my fridge. my number 1. feed and hydrate (adhd and autistic and mum of 3- I need to be reminded to eat and drink 2. dishes 3. benches and table 4. clothes 5. floors so wish I'd found all of your channels a couple of years ago. I started with clean my space, which is awesome and changed things for the better. but I needed this you, Cas and Dawn so very much.

[@tinawhite8073]

I agree 1000%!! When the dishes are done, everything else falls into place more easily!

[@alicejump2290]

Just getting over the big C, I usually have caregivers but they couldn’t come while I was positive! I keep asking myself what can I get done, I thought maybe the dishes into the dishwasher, literally! Next I thought what other task can I do, and I was able to put away a basket of clothes! Watching this reinforces this concept!

[@calicocritterscrafts886]

I’m about to start nursing school with two kids and one of whom is special needs...my house is already a disaster. I needed this SO BAD!!

[@debraanderson7086]

Hugs to you!

[@tkataby73]

Always leave the room with something in your hand. Heard it somewhere and it made a huge difference for me.

[@alinatherese1115]

Thank you that making bed isn't necessary. Doing dishes while in survival mode is the best thing I ever heard👏 Ffff making the bed. I will never (besides overnight guests).

[@heathermorgan821]

Your “do the dishes every day” has saved my sanity and made a hugh difference in my cleaning routine. I run my dishwasher at night and have been able to keep it up since January. It’s crazy something I dreaded every day seems so easy to me know. THANK YOU! I’m definitely going to start the 5 min pickup with my family!

[@dazywings]

OK! Ok, ok, ok ok. I'll do the DISHES. How did you get in my head? And then when I'm done I'll go around being Vana White closing all the cupboard doors in my kitchen.

[@patsypryor9850]

bless you! back behind you I see real living.your homes is lived in. thnx for the ed.

[@yodelbat]

i love my mom, but ever since i moved out in 2011 evey time i call her she mentions her dishes are a mess. every single time, for over 12 years. i've tried helping her figure something out but at this point it's a burden she is clinging on to. i also struggle with dishes (shocking i know) but this vid is inspiring to make me actually realize how big of a priority they should be

[@eahuebner1]

I started the course knowing I needed to declutter by half. Now, I am down to decluttering and organizing the depths of my storage spaces. 3/4 of a lot of categories had to go, but I kept what I love. 💖

[@danareevesmusic]

You have the Best editor!!! Thanks to you my kitchen is clean from last night. I actually did the work but it is your voice in my head telling me to get it done. Love you so much ❤️

[@amanda1c680]

5 minute pick up - so obvious, so easy, why haven't I done this before?? In 5 minutes today, I have completely decluttered one work surface and a shelf in the lounge. Gonna set myself 5 minute times to do a multitude of things I have tried 15 mins tasks before, but have still found this overwhelming. Thanks x

[@carynwood9158]

Also, keep ONE set of 8 dishes in the cabinet. You MUST wash them or run out and the best part is if you LIMIT the amount of what you have it cuts down on the time it takes and how much you see stacked as well as how much space needed to store them. Reevaluate what you are keeping in inventory. I often walk through looking at my home thinking, why do I even have this and let it go!

[@katiemartell6520]

We have so much kitchen paraphernalia, and we are camping right now. When we get home, we have so many big glass mixing bowls and unused casserole dishes. Bye bye dishes, more room in our small condo kitchen. Hoping to start clearing off kitchen counters!

[@courtneycrecca7750]

I needed to hear this! We are five weeks away from due date with baby #5 and definitely feel in diaster status....and I know it will be quite sometime until I have the time/energy to get back to the cleaning routine I was doing before!

[@deborahgeorge3238]

Totally agree. Makes it feel like you’re in control if your dishes are done. I don’t have a dishwasher either to hide dishes in.

[@hoopeverlasting]

"At first your kids will pretend they don't know where anything goes"...lol. Yas! So true. Going to try the five minute suggestion.

[@leahirvine3522]

I am in the Take Your House Back course! It's so motivating!! Totally join us, I love it.

[@katiemartell6520]

I’m joining when the next course open. I need this!

[@leahirvine3522]

@@katiemartell6520 YAH!! Totally join us :-)

[@carlottadix]

Thank you. I lift you up because you are trying to help others as you are trying to help yourself. I know so many sincerely kind and decent people who didn't realize how much real effort it takes to keep house. If I could give you one thing I would give you credit for keeping house. I know this struggle is real because straighten up the house and cleaning is not fun. It only gets harder the older you and you husband become. Wait until you get to 55, 60 and 65. You haven't been challenged until you sift through 50 years of your stuff and 70 years of his mothers stuff and he is not wanting to help. He just want to store it under the drop leaf table in front if the fireplace for eight years. And everytime you try to sort it he says he will get to it. NOT GOING TO HAPPEN.

[@margaretsofocleous8137]

Dishes are the most effective way to getting control of things. For this reason even though I wash dishes by hand I no longer go to bed without washing the dishes and putting them away. After this I wipe out or shine my sink. I can't tell you the relief I feel the next day. Cleaning off hotspots and just putting things back in their place would be my next most important thing to do as well as keeping up with laundry. Ideally I would love to put things away and clear hotspots each evening before 8 pm but truthfully that rarely happens. I am an often exhausted as a full time carer to my darling husband who is a hemaplegic stroke survivor . If I wasn't so untidy cleaning would be a breeze. Once a week for 3 hours I work along side my cleaning friend to get any deep cleaning done in the home and to take care of the garden or yard. I have two patios to sweep and mop and two very small tiled balconies upstairs and as we live in Cyprus we sweep th all of the stamped concrete at the side and front of the house to keep the unending dust and leaves in check. In Wales the garden was so different. Here I have no grass at all. I loved this video so have subscribed. Thank you Margaret in Cyprus

[@theresahoward7216]

One thing that I learned from my parents (who did not and still do not have a dishwasher) is to do the dishes before bed every day. It sucks and you don't always want to...but it makes for a better start to the next day and also it attracts bugs and rodents...and that is what I think about on the evenings that I am tired and don't want to take those ten minutes before bed.

[@granitemoss1451]

I haven't had a dishwasher in 18 years. We meant to buy one when we purchased our house but never did. I can say from experience- your parents are absolutely right! I can't STAND waking up to a sink or countertop full of dishes. So I do them anytime there's half a load or more to wash up.

[@theresahoward7216]

@@granitemoss1451 right? The dishwasher is like a dirty dishes holding cell 🤮. I like doing the dishes before turning all the lights off for the day and heading to bed...good time to clear my thoughts.

[@rondap.328]

Our dishwasher broke several months ago..after pricing them, reading reviews, I decided not to buy another...with only 3 in the house I get the dishes done in the amount of time I would take to load and unload..

[@joycetheobald1717]

@@rondap.328 same! I can almost day dream while I wash them. More effective than any dishwasher. 🙂

[@goldenretrievermom7945]

The thing that helps me the absolute most is giving myself permission to buy neoprene or nylon or plastic one-time-use gloves that I can put on to deal with messes. I get grossed out super easily by cleaning and that used to prevent me from cleaning anything. But since starting to keep these in the house I've been so much more motivated to clean things. I've started wiping down my countertops daily and my sinks clean once the dishes are done and even behind backsplashes and faucets. It looks so much better, I'm not drying out my hands from all the washing and most importantly, I don't feel like puking during it.

[@staceykersting705]

Why wd freshly sliced food make u want to vomit? A couple coffee grounds? A tin bit of peanut butter? Just wipe as u go and what u wipe will be even fresher than the next bite u take.

[@pattiesierra1446]

Lol I’m watching your video late at night and I start dozing off and your timer goes off and I jolt awake thinking it’s my dryer timer!! 😂😂😂 I just recently started watching your videos and I can seriously relate. Thank you so much, Dana!! ❤️❤️

[@carynwood9158]

I'm good at keeping my dishes done and I agree it makes a world of a difference in my mental outlook but I also have to say I get out of bed and spend 5 minutes making sure my bed is made and the bedroom is clear. I can't function with a messy bedroom. I just got EVERYTHING out that makes a mess, no little decor items, clothes pared down so I can manage them and not be having to use my body for leverage to fit them in! I keep looking at stuff saying what else can go???

[@mskay949]

I agree, I make my bed as soon as I get up every day. I also take 10 to 15 minutes before I go to bed at night and pick up anything that's out of place, that includes dishes, or sometimes I will throw a load of laundry in the wash or dryer. I did this even when my kids were little. I have to say my house always looks picked up. I try and clean at least once a week.

[@joycetheobald1717]

I'm still in bed, reading all these fantastic tips. The motivation to just run a brush through my hair can be all I do to get up some days. I will make a to do list and start in the kitchen. Thanks 😊

[@marieskee22]

I'm usually pretty good at doing the dishes. But that 5 min pick up sounds like it could be life changing for me. Thanks for the tips!!!

[@va1445]

Anytime I am on the phone, I use that time to do my picking up, folding laundry, sweeping, or dusting. It becomes mindless and I get so much done! I avoid doing things like dishes, cleaning the bathroom or anything else involving water though (just in case I drop my phone). By the end of even a short chat, I have so much satisfaction and it is very motivating.

[@ronnieking3848]

Lol, you can do those things if you put them on speaker phone.

[@thomasdoyle6931]

Who talks on the phone anymore? That's great!

[@charlottestewart4595]

Those are my two go to things as well. This is so simple but true and my number 3 is put a load of laundry in the washer.

[@graceherrmann4784]

Mind too

[@Mama_eats]

5 👏🏻 minute 👏🏻 pickup 👏🏻 A serious life changer. I tend to do this a slightly different way though. If I pick up my living room it changes everything for me. One room I can actually relax in that is empty of clutter. Move everything into the room it belongs in, or put away if it goes in the living room. Then when I take breaks from cleaning I have one room I can actually relax in. Otherwise I tend to get overwhelmed. Very useful for difficult times (chronic pain flare ups or things like our dishwasher being broken) to keep the house in order!

[@amyb1710]

Thank you, I just took 10 minute break from work and tackled by disastrous kitchen. Dishes done and worktops cleaned 👍

[@katiemartell6520]

I just finished my dishes. Thanks, Dana!

[@KateShaw2]

Dana you’ve been a big part of my journey to decluttering my house thanks to your books, and some family support, I’ve made noticeable progress in decluttering! I get a lot more enjoyment out of my home now that I have leas stuff to manage and I am not embarrassed to have people visit my home.

[@michelebradley7813]

My Mom demanded that the Kitchen be cleaned before bed every night. It was my job since I was 10 y.o. : Dishes washed/dried/put away, all surfaces & stove wiped down, sweep floor, mop on Tues & Fri. Beds made every day before you leave the house. I'm still doing it 47 yrs later! 😂 1X a friend of hers was over - I was 14 & washing dinner dishes. She said, "Margaret, your dishwasher isn't working?" My Mom replied w/o missing a beat: "Sure it does, her name is Michele." 😂🤣😂😝

[@lynnettelg]

You were camouflaged so I couldn’t see you! LOL 😉 Thanks for the lessons! Do the dishes. And, yes, I rebel against my own dang self, out of spite, like a petulant child, if I try to trick myself into doing more work. So I do a 5 minute pick-up. Then I’m more likely to do it again sooner. Oh! I’m in the Take Your House Back course - since we started. If you’re thinking about it, I highly recommend. No where near done with my house (in the “taking” not “take” stage 😁) but I’m on my way. The 3 ladies each bring strengths and are best when interacting and sharing together for our benefit.

[@elizabethharris9187]

New subscriber here! I’m 60, and I’ve never been a good housekeeper. Your advice to do the dishes is spot on for where I always begin when I must get something done. It really does set the tone for doing more, or at least feeling better. Your videos are very motivating. Thank you!

[@brightpage1020]

Love your work! Been recommending your books as *THE* best resources for this issue because you don't waste time overthinking it analyzing the "why"'s or the "how"s, you just jump in with the dishes. To get momentum going. After a few days, the whole kitchen is cleaner, then the dining room, then that makes space for bathrooms, laundry, and bedrooms... It's the investment principal of compounding interest. Dish math works! Once applied to dishes you can apply it to a small bathroom - now I clean our kids'/guest bathroom in 5 -7 minutes each day instead of an hour deep clean once or twice per week. It helps so much because it doesn't exhaust me for the next task. Thank you!!!

[@lighteninggazelle816]

So glad I found this channel today. I have to leave in a few minutes and I wish I could stay home and clean!

[@lifeismymusic1]

Thank you doesn't say what I need to say to you. Thank you for being open and honest. Thank you for sharing all the things I understand on a guilt ridden level. Thank you for sharing solutions that actually work...if I just do the darn dishes lol You sharing your experience makes me feel less shame and more hope, it helps clear my slob-o-vision to actually see what is going on around me and know that in five minutes (I found 15 works for me as well) if I just do anything - I will see results, I will feel better, I will feel less heavy, less guilty, less shame. Thank you for your videos, your books and, mostly, for sharing you.

[@paulaharvill8132]

I agree, simply doing the dishes opens up all kinds of possibilities. It makes the whole house feel clean and organized. The 5 minute pick up removes the pressure and prevents me from feeling overwhelmed.

[@aprillee83]

I have a no dishes in the sink rule. That way they are always dealt with immediately or asap. Also, with laundry, I put the clean load on my own bed directly from the dryer and have no other surface in my room to put it, so i have to fold it all and put it away by my bedtime.

[@natalies5818]

You are the best and I swear to goodness, a genius! Your tips are excellent, useful and best off all MAKES SENSE. Looking forward to reading your 3rd book.

[@maryyoder7949]

Your words; do the dishes, always come to mind when I'm struggling with what I should start with or feeling overwhelmed...

[@bonniejalsevac7946]

Just did my dishes while watching.....totally stuck in frozen mode of what I need to do! And my dishes were undone and not emptied....oh boy. Why why why don't I remember these two things when life just looms big....yes, this past year. Age 70 and needing this wonderful video reminder!!!! Thank you Dana!

[@paige5191]

I swear I hear you in my head when I'm overwhelmed and I stop everything and go do the dishes! Lol which leads to me clearing off the counters and tidying up.

[@kristenduarte4661]

I’ve bought both your books. I’ve watched every single video and read every single blog post. You are THE ONLY ONE who says it like it is for people like me. Bless you, Dana.

[@juliacockroft8745]

Years ago, when my Sons were small, I started the habit of picking up before bedtime every night. If they drug their feet, they had to quit playing and start putting away 15 minutes earlier the next night. As a single, working Mother, I had to keep ahead or housework would be the last thing to get done. 💝

[@laurenkil]

You have improved the quality of my life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

[@savannahvick5266]

Your channel has been so helpful for me right now! My mom broke her ankle and had surgery so I moved into her home to help her. Her home was a disaster Bc it hadn’t been cleaned in a few days and she has a 4 and 8 year old! Watching your videos have been so helpful on tackling the house and the stress!

[@ShellL]

I was always putting off emptying the dishwasher. I hated it. One day I timed it, emptying a full load & it was 3 minutes & 20 seconds. OMG I have literally spent years putting it off for just over 3 minutes. I loved the pick up & put away idea for 5 minutes. The two small things I now always do are: 1) Microwave on: Zap around for however long it is - Amazing. 2) Kettle on: Same deal. This adds up to at least 12-15 mins a day. Try it you’ll be amazed at what you can get done. Currently de cluttering the house at 70. We have SO much stuff. I can see that I’ll need to do it again bit by bit next time. The great new both my husband & I have set up donate boxes. Yeh. Thanks

[@Judy-fw7fl]

Doing the dishes is sooo fantastic. Like... I do the dishes (after i have it under controll now: including collecting them from the rest of the house) in the morning, and in the evening. and it is soooo helpful and makes such a difference

[@kristinlong9604]

Your eyes are popping in this lighting. Looks so beautiful!!!

[@karengoetchius794]

"Not perfect, but so much better" THANK YOU!!!

[@p1ratesarrawesome]

Thank you for putting your ads at the end. I cannot pay attention when people put them throughout the video ❤️

[@SpringRain2010]

I used to save dishes for last... that never worked. theeat they were ny most dreaded thing. Now it the first thing .. .like you said. Love your video's.

[@melanielester2106]

I enjoyed this simple, motivational video! I live in the UK, I'm 54 and have never owned a dish washer. I generally put the kettle on to boil after my evening meal and try and get the pots washed whilst it is boiling then I can sit down with my pot of tea and cup and saucer with everything in order (hopefully 😂)!

[@Hi_Im_Akward]

I've suffered from depression since I can remember. Trying to be kind to myself when I am not doing well, the things I've figured out for me that are bare minimum is as follows: Do dishes Take out trash Get bare minimum groceries Have bare minimum clothes washed and dried (not folded or hung) These tasks mean I can function through the week on basically an empty gas tank. My reasoning is food is necessary to function. Clean clothes will help me not get fired. Removing the trash means nothing comes to a grinding halt (for me if I don't take out trash it just piles up on the counter and I'm stuck not able to do dishes properly).

[@Julies-in-a-mood]

The answer is, “do the dishes!” Now, what was the question? Absolute truth, Dana!

[@monicanaya377]

the 5 min pickup as a family is genius!!!!! thank you

[@leafisher2531]

It takes me longer than 6 minutes to do the dishes without a dishwasher, but I understand the concept. I have to do dishes in 5 minutes sessions as I have RA and can't stand that long at the sink. They usually get done before 9PM. The house won't burn down if I let a pan soak overnight.

[@katattack907]

Dana, I've been sharing your videos with lots of people who struggle with executive function and keeping a tidy house! Your techniques have been such a huge help to me. I can't thank you enough. Also, I love that you keep in those moments where you forget something, or when the timer loudly goes off while you're talking. Those moments are so relatable! Also also, Reid's editing and commentary is always top notch. 😂

[@scot.in.de.9013]

I love this! When I get overwhelmed I usually put on "the maschines". Dishwasher and washing machine. I am definitely going to start the 5 minute pickup with my boys. Thanks for the brilliant idea!

[@fuchadancer94]

I totally agree with the part about making the bed. If the bed is made great but who cares? I love when I wake up and the kitchen is sparkling clean

[@carriebass4325]

Love it! Love the sass level warning, the advice, the loud timer, your humor and realness, and the end credits. The end credits!!! 😜😆 On a serious note though, doing the dishes works. I have to do them before bed. If I don't, I dread breakfast the next morning. They really don't take long. Just a few minutes.

[@lindaburris1968]

You have really pretty eyes. Yes, I am overwhelmed. We are moving out of our house of 26 years and into our vacation home ( which is already full) while we build another home. Trying to move into another full house that was built in 1930 has been more than a challenge.