Typically, my kids are responsible for tidying up their own spaces. I believe this chore fosters responsibility and a sense of ownership, which ultimately builds character and prepares them for adulthood. Plus, I confess, I’m a bit lazy when it comes to tackling their messes.
However, there are moments—usually once a year—when I have to step in and take over the cleaning duties. These moments often arise when:
- A significant portion of my silverware collection has mysteriously vanished.
- We’re so accustomed to the unpleasant odor coming from the room that we’ve affectionately dubbed it “Stenchie.”
- We’ve been late to school or appointments far too often because I’ve been rummaging through my tween’s chaotic pile to find her insert commonly lost item.
If you’re a more diligent parent than I am and manage to get your tween to clean their own room, that’s fantastic! But if you find yourself in the position of needing to intervene, here are some tips to help you navigate the situation:
- Choose the Right Time: Wait until your tween is occupied at school, camp, or visiting relatives. You’ll need uninterrupted time without a frustrated tween protesting.
- Prepare Your Supplies: Gather trash bags, recycling bins, cleaning spray, rags, a vacuum, gloves, and possibly a shovel and hazmat suit for extreme cases.
- Ventilate the Space: Open the door and windows wide. Regardless of the weather, fresh air is essential for your survival during this operation.
- Identify and Remove the Source of the Smell: This task may require washing putrid socks, discarding spoiled food, or throwing out questionable footwear. Be warned: there could be multiple offenders.
- Wash All Clothes on the Floor: Even if you think some might be clean, if they’ve touched the floor, they need a wash.
- Collect the Trash: Expect to find used tissues, half-eaten snacks, and maybe even some surprises. If something is stuck to the floor, consider using scissors for removal.
- Return Kitchen Items: Retrieve any missing dishes and assess their condition. If they’re beyond saving, toss them out; otherwise, soak and clean them properly.
- Clear Under Furniture: Remove everything from underneath the bed and desk in one go. Once you’ve tackled this mountain, repeat steps 4 through 7.
- Discover Hidden Treats: If you find any secret stashes of candy, enjoy them guilt-free (just wash your hands first).
- Sort Through Remaining Items: Create two piles: one for essentials and one for things to donate later. Store the donation items out of sight until you can take them.
- Clean Surfaces: Wipe down doors, walls, and other areas, then dispose of the cleaning rag afterward.
- Vacuum the Floor: Revel in the beauty of the rediscovered carpet color.
- Document the Clean Room: Take pictures to remember this rare state of cleanliness before it inevitably returns to its previous chaotic state.
When your tween returns, slip on some headphones and crank up your favorite tunes. To ensure the neighbors don’t hear the inevitable outcry of “MY ROOM IS SO UNFAMILIAR! I CAN’T LIVE LIKE THIS!” consider inviting them out for a movie.
Important Note: If you come across your tween’s journal, resist the urge to read it. Respect their privacy—some things are better left unread.
For more insights on navigating parenting, check out this guide. If you’re interested in home insemination, Make a Mom offers valuable resources, and the CDC provides excellent information on pregnancy.
Summary:
Cleaning your tween’s room can be a daunting task, but with the right approach and timing, it can be managed without too much stress. Gathering supplies, ventilating the space, and removing any sources of odor are crucial steps. Sorting through belongings and returning any missing kitchen items can help restore order. Remember to respect your tween’s privacy, and enjoy some peace and quiet while you tackle the mess.