Cleaning the Disaster Zone: A Realistic Summer Reset

Summer has a way of letting the mess pile up, doesn’t it? Between long afternoons, toy chaos, popsicle sticks, and craft explosions, the house starts to feel less like a cozy haven and more like a chaotic storm. If you’re standing in the middle of it all wondering where to begin, this is for you, mama.

This is not a “deep clean” checklist. This is a realistic, step-by-step summer reset for when your house feels like a disaster zone and your energy is low. Let’s make it gentle, doable, and grounding.

Step 1: Reset your body before the room.

Have a snack, make sure you’re wearing something comfy, and fill up your water. I always like to make sure that my meters are full before I set off on a task. It can be hard for me to focus and get things done if my brain is getting distracted by a rumbly tummy or wearing uncomfortable clothes.

Step 2: Pick one anchor space.

Don’t clean the whole house. Just pick one space that helps you breathe better when it’s reset. For me that’s the kitchen/dining/living area or my desk. The places I’m in the most are usually my priority. Since I’m typically creative in those spaces, I need a clear space for a clear mind.

Step 3: The visible clutter sweep.

Grab a laundry basket and do a “15-minute walkabout” — anything that’s in the wrong place goes in the basket. You can sort it later. Right now, we’re just clearing surfaces to reduce visual stress. The trick to this, is that you have to actually put the out of place things where they go! I’ve been guilty of just gathering the clutter and then not actually putting it away.

Step 4: Make a reset playlist or put on a cozy podcast.

I usually put on something soft and a little upbeat , or I listen to a homemaking podcast while I wipe surfaces. It keeps me moving without pressure. Try to put your phone in a place that you’re not tempted to look at your notifications.

Step 5: Gentle zones, one at a time.

If you have the energy, move from one “zone” to the next. Kitchen surfaces, floors, bathroom wipe-down, etc. Set a timer for 20 minutes and stop when it rings. Rest is productive too.

And most importantly?

It doesn’t all have to get done. If your house feels like a disaster, remember this: you are not the mess. Your worth is not measured in crumbs and laundry piles. You are doing sacred work, even when it’s slow.