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Does cleaning your home spark joy? It does for me—most of the time. One of my best tips for keeping a tidy house is to make cleaning as pleasant as possible. If the process feels like punishment, it’s natural to put it off.
I encourage bringing more of your senses into tasks you want to enjoy. A few small touches transform chores into something more enjoyable and intentional.
To set the right mood, I change into my “cleaning clothes” and wear sturdy house shoes. I’m not nearly as efficient in dress clothes, socks, or slippers—this simple habit, learned from Flylady, helps me move faster and feel ready to work. Do what works best for you.
When it’s dark outside I turn on small lamps to make rooms feel warm and welcoming. That cozy light makes piles of dishes or laundry feel more out of place, which is exactly the nudge I need to get them done.
If I’m cleaning in the morning, I often start a pot of coffee. I love the fresh aroma filling the house. I add foamed oat milk and a sprinkle of cinnamon—sometimes shaped like a heart, because a little whimsy goes a long way. (If you follow my Instagram stories you might have seen this!)
I also play upbeat music or listen to podcasts while I clean. Lately I’ve been enjoying Vance Joy and the podcast The Road Back to You, which explores the Enneagram. Music and a good podcast make time fly—I’ve shared a Happy Homebody Playlist if you’re looking for ideas.
Scent matters to me: cozy, warm fragrances for fall and winter; bright citrus and floral notes for spring and summer. Seasonal scents are part of how I make cleaning feel curated and pleasant.
I no longer buy many scented cleaning products because of concerns about toxicity—some products marketed as natural still contain ingredients I prefer to avoid. Instead, I customize the scent of my favorite cleaner by adding a few drops of essential oils to a basic, non-toxic cleaner. It’s simple and much healthier for the household.
Making my own seasonal blends has become one of my favorite small rituals. Mixing scents is fun and makes cleaning feel like a self-care moment rather than a chore.
Why I stopped using those scented products I once liked
My current favorite seasonal scent combination:
Lemon Myrtle + Geranium
I add several drops of each oil to one capful of my preferred household cleaner in a 16 oz glass spray bottle. It’s quick and easy. I use a trusted brand of oils to ensure purity and reduce exposure to contaminants.
A recent blend I made: 2 drops lemon myrtle, about 5 drops bergamot, and around 8 drops peppermint mixed with one capful of cleaner and topped with water. It smelled fresh and bright—just what I wanted.
Sometimes I find myself looking forward to cleaning simply to use my pretty spray bottle and enjoy the scent I mixed. A task that felt like a chore becomes an experience I actually anticipate.
I recommend using high-quality essential oils for safety and effectiveness. When chosen carefully, oils can support mood, relaxation, and a pleasant, non-toxic clean around the home. If you decide to experiment, always follow safety guidelines for dilution and use.
Happy cleaning!
What are your most inspiring cleaning rituals?
