In the vast world of parenting advice, you can stumble upon countless clever tricks online, from using empty cardboard tubes to organize wrapping paper to finding ways to keep your child’s art supplies tidy. As a physician rather than a Pinterest-perfect mom, I’ve discovered some practical strategies that really work. Here are 21 of my favorite mom hacks designed for the less-than-perfect parent:
- Utilize Pajamas for the Next Day: Dress your child in comfy pajamas that double as tomorrow’s outfit. For example, my little one sleeps in joggers and a T-shirt, so he’s already ready for story time the next day. Just change the diaper!
- Keep a Spare Pair of Shoes in the Car: Instead of repeating yourself about shoes, stash a pair in the vehicle. This way, when it’s time to go, you can simply help your child put them on once they’re buckled in.
- Invest in a Family Water Bottle: Forget the hassle of sippy cups. A large water bottle for the whole family can save you time and energy.
- Make the Most of Leftovers: Cook extra portions and simply tell your family they’ll enjoy the same meal again tomorrow. It’s a win-win!
- Practice Quick Clean-Ups: Set a timer for ten minutes and have everyone pitch in to tidy up. You’ll be amazed at how much can get done in a short time.
- Strategically Place Bins: Use baskets and containers to organize clutter. Position one by the front door for shoes and another in the kitchen for keys and mail.
- Create a “Stuff Box” for Your Partner: To manage clutter from your partner, designate a box for their belongings. This helps keep your space tidy and provides a designated spot for their items.
- Reuse Clothes That Aren’t Dirty: Instead of washing clothes that can still be worn, designate a hook in your closet for them. This keeps your laundry organized.
- Draft a Daily Priority List: Each night, jot down three essential tasks for the next day. Keep it simple to avoid overwhelm.
- Use Bath Time for Calming: If your child is cranky, putting them in the tub can be soothing. If they’re too big for the sink, just use a chair in the bathroom with some running water.
- Carry Mascara for Quick Touch-Ups: Traffic lights provide perfect opportunities for a quick application.
- Save Amazon Boxes for Playtime: When cooking, pull out an empty box and encourage creativity by having your child decorate it.
- Pack Scissors for the Diaper Bag: Not for haircuts, but perfect for cutting pizza into child-friendly bites.
- Store Snacks in the Car: Keep snacks handy in the center console for those moments when you need a quick distraction.
- Give Your Child Painter’s Tape: Allow them to decorate the walls with tape for some quiet time, and you’ll have a fun project to clean up later.
- Arrange Playdates Efficiently: Instead of always socializing with mom friends, take turns watching each other’s children for some solo time.
- Hang Clothes Immediately: Install a shower rod in the laundry room to hang clothes straight from the dryer, keeping them wrinkle-free.
- Turn Vacuuming into a Game: Make cleaning fun by telling your kids that toys left on the floor will be swept up by the vacuum.
- Don’t Stress Over a Messy Car: A cluttered car can be handy, especially for unexpected messes or emergencies.
- Corn-on-the-Cob for Cranky Toddlers: This snack can be surprisingly effective at quieting fussiness.
- Declutter Regularly: Living with less can mean less mess. Regularly bag up items to donate and keep your space more manageable.
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Summary
These practical life hacks can help busy moms streamline their days, manage their households efficiently, and maintain sanity while parenting. Focus on what works best for you and your family.