Once you’ve tackled the major chores, it’s important to not let the mess pile up again. To stay a step ahead, Chalut recommends the “Ten Minute Rule”: add 10 minutes to your morning routine and your end of day routine for a quick clean up — like picking up dirty clothes and towels, putting away toys, washing dishes, etc. Other times of day can work for the family too, like a few minutes spent on chores after school or work.

And use that chart as well so everyone is clear on what role they play in keeping the home in tip-top shape.