Homemaking Simplified: 7 Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Moms
As a busy mom, I know firsthand how challenging homemaking can be. Between managing a household and caring for children, homemakers can feel like there are never enough hours in the day. However, with some strategic time management and simple hacks, homemaking can become easier and more efficient. In this blog post, I will share seven time-saving hacks for busy moms to simplify homemaking and be present for their families.
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Homemaking challenges faced by busy moms
Homemaking is a broad term that encompasses many tasks, including cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, laundry, and more. For busy moms, the main challenge is finding the time to complete all of these tasks while also caring for their families and taking care of little ones. It can be overwhelming to have a long to-do list and no idea where to start.
Another challenge is feeling like homemaking tasks are never truly done. For example, laundry is a never-ending cycle, and dishes seem to pile up as soon as they are washed. This constant feeling of never being caught up can be frustrating and stressful.
The importance of time management in homemaking
Effective time management is one way busy homemakers can simplify homemaking. Without it, tasks can very easily pile up and become overwhelming. And as we all know, endless overwhelm is draining for homemakers. Time management involves prioritizing tasks, setting goals, and scheduling allotted time to complete them.
One way to manage time effectively is to create a daily to-do list. This list should include both homemaking tasks and other responsibilities, such as homeschool-related tasks or other appointments. Prioritize the most important tasks and schedule specific times to complete them.
Time-saving hack #1: Brain dump the night before
One of the best time-saving hacks for busy moms is to do a brain dump the night before. A brain dump is simply writing down everything that is on your mind, from tasks to worries to ideas. By getting everything out of your head and onto paper, you free up mental space and reduce stress.
This is also an excellent time to review your daily to-do list. Before going to bed, determine the top three tasks that must get done the next day. Doing a brain dump the night before allows you to start the day with a clear mind and a focused plan. You can review your list and prioritize tasks for the day, making it easier to manage your time effectively.
Time-saving hack #2: Meal prep once or twice a week
Meal prepping is another excellent time-saving hack for busy moms. By preparing meals in advance, you can save time and reduce stress during the week. Choose one or two days per week to do meal prep, such as Sunday and Wednesday. Plan out your meals for the week, create a grocery list, and cook and prepare as much as you can.
I like to pre-wash, spin, and chop salad greens; put prepared ingredients in Mason jars, Pyrex containers, or reusable food storage bags; make sauces and dressings ahead of time, and steam and parboil veggies that usually take time to cook. This has been such a huge timesaver for me.
When it comes time to eat during the week, simply reheat the prepped meals or assemble them quickly. This saves time and eliminates the need to make decisions about what to eat every day. The fewer last-minute cooking decisions you have to make when you’re hungry, the better!
Time-saving hack #3: Wash a load of laundry while getting breakfast ready
Laundry is one of the most time-consuming homemaking tasks, but it doesn't have to be. One simple time-saving hack is to start a load of laundry while getting breakfast ready. This allows you to multitask and make the most of your time. Once the load is started, you can go about your morning routine while the laundry is washing. When it's done, transfer it to the dryer and fold it later in the day. This simple hack saves me so much time every day and makes doing the laundry feel less overwhelming.
Time-saving hack #4: Reset the kitchen by washing the dishes every night
A clean kitchen is essential for a stress-free home and a more peaceful morning, but it can be challenging to keep up with dishes and other messes. One time-saving hack is to reset the kitchen every night by washing dishes and wiping down surfaces. Make this a fun family activity and reset your kitchen while singing along to your favorite tunes. An added step I like to do at night is to set out the breakfast plates and utensils ahead of time. This simple step makes breakfast prep go so much smoother in the mornings!
By doing this every night, you start each day with a clean slate and reduce the time and effort needed to clean later. Plus, a clean kitchen can improve your mood and reduce stress. I promise — your tomorrow self will thank you!
Time-saving hack #5: Use a timer to get things done efficiently and in increments
When faced with a long to-do list, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. I get it. I’ve been guilty of feeling paralyzed by a mile-long to-do list. One way to manage tasks effectively is to use a timer. Set a timer for a specific amount of time, such as 15 minutes, and work on a task until the timer goes off. This hack helps you focus on one task at a time and avoid distractions. It also breaks down tasks into manageable increments, making them feel less overwhelming.
My daughter and I love using our timer while we’re putting away her books and toys. There’s something about racing against time that makes cleaning up more fun and enjoyable!
Time-saving hack #6: Batch similar and repeat tasks
Another effective time-saving hack is to batch similar or repetitive tasks. For example, if you need to make phone calls or send emails, do them all at once rather than spreading them out throughout the day. This saves time by minimizing transitions between tasks and allowing you to work more efficiently. It also helps you stay focused and avoid distractions.
Time-saving hack #7: Have designated email and social media time
Email and social media can be major time-wasters. One way to balance these needs is to have designated times for checking and responding to emails and social media. For example, you might check your email twice a day, once in the morning and once in the afternoon. Similarly, you might limit social media to a specific time of day, such as during nap time. One of my favorite tools for designating scheduled focus time windows and blocking certain sites during focus times is the Freedom app, which is available to download as a browser plug-in, as well as a computer, tablet, and phone app. This allows you to get tasks done and be fully present for your family while still managing your time effectively.
Encouragement for busy moms
Homemaking can be challenging and time-consuming, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. By implementing these time-saving hacks, you can simplify homemaking and free up time and mental space for other responsibilities and, most importantly, your family. It's okay to prioritize, re-assess and change priorities, and let some tasks slide.
The goal is to create a healthy and Christ-centered home environment for your family, not to be a perfect homemaker. So embrace each new day, prayerfully prioritize what's most important, and use these hacks to simplify homemaking so you can be present for your role as the gatekeeper of your home.
