Practical Tips for a Tidy Home

How to Keep Your Home Neat and Tidy Year-Round.

Nashville, Ark. – September 17 marks National Professional Housecleaners Day, a time to recognize the hardworking individuals who help keep our homes clean, organized, and healthy. Whether you're hiring a professional or tackling chores yourself, maintaining a tidy home is more than just aesthetics—it’s about creating a peaceful, functional space that supports well-being.

In honor of this day, here are seven expert-approved tips to help you keep your home neat and manageable year-round:

  1. Start Small, Stay Consistent

Cleaning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Focus on one room or task at a time. A 15-minute daily routine—like wiping counters, putting away clutter, or sweeping—can prevent messes from piling up.

  1. Declutter Regularly

Less stuff means less to clean. Set aside time each month to donate, recycle, or toss items you no longer use. Use the “one in, one out” rule to keep clutter in check.

  1. Create Cleaning Zones

Divide your home into zones (e.g., kitchen, bathroom, living room) and assign specific days to tackle each. This makes cleaning more manageable and ensures no area is neglected.

  1. Use the Right Tools

Invest in quality cleaning supplies—microfiber cloths, a good vacuum, and eco-friendly cleaners (or make your own) can make a big difference. Keep tools accessible so you’re more likely to use them.

  1. Make It a Family Affair

Get everyone involved! Assign age-appropriate chores to kids and share responsibilities with other household members. Cleaning together builds teamwork and lightens the load.

  1. Tidy As You Go

Clean up messes as they happen. Wipe spills immediately, put items back after use, and do a quick tidy before bed. These small habits prevent bigger messes later.

  1. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

A tidy home doesn’t have to be spotless. Focus on progress and celebrate small wins—like an organized drawer or a freshly made bed. A little effort goes a long way. Whether you're deep-cleaning or simply straightening up, every step counts toward a healthier, happier living space.

Recipe of the Week

If you’re looking for a delicious but unique cake, look no further than the Adult division Best of Show cake from the Howard County Fair! Thanks to Dana Newberg for sharing her recipe.

            Cake:

  • 1 ½ cups sugar

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon baking soda

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

  • ¾ cup orange juice

  • 1 (3 oz.) package lime gelatin

  • 5 eggs

  • 1 ½ cups vegetable oil

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla 

    Glaze:

  • 1 cup lime juice

  • 1/3 cup powdered sugar

    Frosting:

  • 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese (softened)

  • 1 stick butter (softened)

  • 4 cups powdered sugar

  • 1 cup chopped pecans

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla 

  1. Cake instructions: Blend cake ingredients at low speed until moist, then 2-4 minutes at medium speed. Pour into three round 9” pans that have been greased and floured. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Let cool briefly, then turn them out and poke holes in them with toothpicks.

    Glaze instructions: Mix of 1 cup lime juice and 1/3 cup powdered sugar until smooth, then drizzle over the three warm cakes.

    Frosting instructions: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy, slowly add powdered sugar, vanilla, and chopped pecans (or save to sprinkle on top). Frost one cake; stack the 2nd cake on top, frost the second cake; stack the 3rd on top, then frost the third cake.

 

By Angie Freel
County Extension Agent - FCS
The Cooperative Extension Service
U of A Division of Agriculture

Media Contact: Angie Freel
County Extension Agent - FCS
U of A Division of Agriculture
Cooperative Extension Service
421 N. Main St, Nashville AR 71852
(870) 845-7517
afreel@uada.edu

 

The Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service is an equal opportunity institution. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate or need materials in another format, please contact your County Extension office (or other appropriate office) as soon as possible. Dial 711 for Arkansas Relay.

Pursuant to 7 CFR § 15.3, the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research programs and services (including employment) without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, sexual preference, pregnancy or any other legally protected status, and is an equal opportunity institution.