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Why I Make My Bed: 10 Reasons For A Clean House

A few years ago I wrote an article called ‘25 Powerful Habits.' One of those habits is making your bed everyday.

Now, I had been making my bed everyday since…well, since I had children. How could I ask them to make their own bed if mine was an unmade mess, right? (Now, I use the word ‘had' here. Since my husband retired, he makes the bed everyday). Up until then I never made my bed – what was the point – I was going to get back in it soon anyway!

But now, I love making my bed for a few reasons:

My room looks fresh and nice.
I love climbing into smooth sheets at night. It symbolizes the end of my day.
A bed that is made is a symbol that yesterday is gone…and today is a new day. A fresh start so to speak.

But why does making your bed set you up for a clean house?

Why I Make My Bed: 10 Reasons For A Clean House

1). Everything looks so much better.

There is something about a bed that is made up that is refreshing. The sheets and comforter are all smooth. The pillows are fluffed and in their proper place. PLUS the rest of the room looks so much better when all of the pillows are not strewn on the floor. Wouldn't you rather look at a kitchen with all of the dishes washed and put away rather than a sink full of dirty dishes? Or shoes in the closet rather than spread all over the hallway?

2). I can find things.

When my house is messy I can't seem to find anything. As a big time paper crafter I know the importance of putting away all of my craft supplies in their proper place so that I can find them when I need them. Looking for that stapler, laundry detergent that you KNOW you bought but can't find, or the missing shoe? When the house is clean, and everything is in their proper place, you can find what you are looking for.

3). My mind can rest.

When I look at my house and all I see is clutter…my mind gets cluttered as well. I don't know about you, but I have a lot of things on my plate every day. And housecleaning is not at the top of my list. But if I can control the clutter – the books on the counter, towels that need put away, cat food on the floor, or trash that needs taken out – my mind can move onto other things. Like taking a nap, playing with my kids, or calling a friend.

4). I sleep better at night.

Knowing that I am climbing into a bed with smooth sheets and fluffy pillows helps me wash away the day. I can rest in my bed knowing that tomorrow is a new day…I have a chance for a do-over or a do-again.

5). Drop ins are always welcome.

Now, I am not worried about being judged…but, I really hate for someone to come over and my house is a mess. I feel as if it is a reflection on me and my abilities to create order from chaos. We have parties all the time. When my house is clean and organized all I have to focus on is the party…not clutter and cleaning.

6). It motivates me.

When my house is tidy I don't notice the dirty as much. If all of the extra things are off of the floor I don't really see the dust bunnies or stray cat hairs. If things are strewn all around ALL I see are the things and dust. If things are tidy I am then motivated to keep it clean and tidy.

7). I can clean better.

If you have ever had the privilege of having a house cleaner you know what I mean. You clean before the cleaners come, right? Because it is very difficult to vacuum a floor when it is covered with toys. Or dust a table when it is piled with books and papers. Or clean a kitchen when dishes are still in the sink.

8). Saves money.

A dirty house will age quicker than a clean one. Those pesky fix-it projects will pile up and soon your house can become one big fix-it project. You will save money when you can find the things you already purchased. Rather than going back to the store to buy it again.

9). Stops the spread of germs.

When a house is free of clutter it is easier to clean. You are then able to clean and sanitize all of those counters, cabinets, sinks, toilets and everything else that can be a germ fest. Especially now that Covid is still among us.

10). It's cheaper than a gym membership.

Just think of all those steps you are logging into your fitness app! All those stairs. All of that bending, twisting, kneeling…keeps you in shape without spending another penny!

11). Bonus: Little things add up to the big things.

When you begin with the little things…like making your bed…it is a stepping stone to the bigger things. One clean and tidy thing will lead to the next clean and tidy thing…and pretty soon you will look around you and notice that everything is clean and tidy!