One of the benefits of having children is that once they reach a certain age, they can begin helping around the house. That doesn’t mean they’ll be happy to do so, but of course, if they’re able-bodied and have the time free, then caring for the place in which they live is important. You can begin by having them wash the dishes after your evening meal, or ensuring they know how to make their bed.
Once they become a teenager, or perhaps even before this, you may teach them how to clean areas of the home. Perhaps you can use an allowance or loosen restrictions on their screen time to make sure that there’s a proper incentive to do this, but of course, the real reward (as most boring adults would say), is learning to take good care of their space. These are foundational lessons that they’ll keep with them when they move out.
While cleaning can seem obvious, of course, it’s good to remember that everyone has to learn for the first time. So let’s consider how that might work, below:
Vacuuming & Cleaning Floors
Teaching your teenager how to vacuum and clean floors is an important skill that will serve them well throughout their life. Start by showing them how to operate the vacuum cleaner, including how to change the attachments and empty the dustbin. Then, demonstrate the proper technique for vacuuming carpets, hardwood floors, and tile – and how to vacuum without getting the cord tangled up. Next, show your teen how to mop and scrub floors using the appropriate cleaning solution for the type of flooring. It’s also important to teach them how to use a dust mop or broom to sweep up debris before vacuuming or mopping.
Polishing Furniture
Teaching your teenager how to polish furniture is another important skill that will serve them well throughout their life. Start by demonstrating how to dust and wipe down furniture using a soft cloth and furniture polish. Show them how to use different types of furniture polish for different types of wood and surfaces.
Encourage your teenager to take care of their furniture by wiping it down and dusting it regularly. Remind them that this will help to keep the furniture looking new and extend its lifespan.
It’s also important to teach your teenager how to spot clean upholstery and how to remove stains from fabric. Provide them with a list of cleaning supplies and instructions for how to use them. This is all rather simple, but it’s good to go over it.
Tidying Bedrooms & Clothes
Teaching your teenager how to keep their bedroom and clothes organized is an important step in helping them to become more independent and responsible. Start by demonstrating how to make a bed and how to keep their room tidy. Show them how to organize their clothes, shoes, and accessories, and how to keep their closet and drawers organized. Teach them to avoid the dreaded ‘laundry chair’ that can pile up when we’re neglecting our vital daily tasks. It will really help.
With this advice, you’re sure to teach your teen to clean in the best possible way.
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