Nobody enjoys housework and with today’s busy lifestyle, it’s sometimes hard to get even the basics done. Hired help is one solution, but getting organized is another. Here’s how you can minimize time spent on housework so you can maximize time for work and family.

Share The Burden

• With both parents working, the whole family needs to help with the housework.
• Make a weekly chore chart with assignments for both parents and older children.
• Hold family members accountable for completing their jobs; withhold privileges if necessary.

Shop Smart

• Post a grocery list on the refrigerator so when something runs out, the family member can write it down immediately.
• Go grocery shopping once a week, and buy everything at the same store if possible.
• Buy non-perishable items like toilet paper and diapers in bulk.

Lighten the Laundry Load

• Ask children and adults to separate their clothes into lights and darks when they put them in the hamper.
• Only wash things that are dirty.
• Have younger children sort and fold their own laundry; older children can do their own loads.
• Buy washable, wrinkle-free clothes to cut down on hand-washing and dry cleaning.

Carefree Cooking

• Make easy-to-prepare nutritious meals. Grill, bake or broil fresh meats and fish with light seasonings.
• Cook large portions on the weekends and freeze the extras for later.
• Have older kids make their own lunches, but oversee what they’re packing.
• Go out to eat once a week or order in to give yourself a break.

Conquer Clutter

• Keep clutter baskets or bins in every room so toys or other items can be quickly picked up at the end of the day.
• Organize your cleaning supplies and keep them where you need them. For example, keep toilet cleaner and a brush in every bathroom. You save time in hunting down supplies.

When the whole family chips in, housework isn’t such a burden. Also remember to keep housework in perspective, a family outing is sometimes more important than having a spotless house.