Spring into Organization: Tips for Busy SLU Students

Hey SLU students! As the semester heats up and spring rolls around, it’s easy to let cleaning and organization fall by the wayside. But with a few simple strategies, you can keep your space tidy and your life on track. Whether you’re juggling classes, work, or extracurriculars, here are some practical tips to help you stay organized and inspired.

Tackling Cleaning with a Busy Schedule

When life gets busy, cleaning can feel like an impossible task. Here are a few ways to make it more manageable:

1. Start Small: Begin with one area or room at a time. Focus on clearing clutter and organizing essentials. This way, you won’t feel overwhelmed and can make progress even in short bursts.
2. Create a Routine: Set aside a specific time each week for cleaning, whether it’s 10 minutes a day or an hour on the weekend. Consistency is key to maintaining a tidy space.
3. Use Technology to Your Advantage: Apps like Habitica or HabitBull can help you track your cleaning tasks and stay on schedule.

Finding Inspiration

Sometimes, all it takes is a little inspiration to get started. Here are some popular Instagram and TikTok accounts that offer great cleaning tips and motivation:

• Marie Kondo (@mariekondo): Known for her KonMari Method, Marie Kondo shares practical advice on decluttering and organizing.
• Clean Mama (@cleanmama): Offers simple cleaning routines and tips for busy lives.
• Vanessa Amann (@vanessaamann): Shares creative storage solutions and home decor ideas.

On TikTok, check out @cleaningwithlove for fun and engaging cleaning challenges.

Spring Cleaning and Donation

Spring cleaning is a great opportunity to declutter and refresh your space. But what do you do with all the items you no longer need? Here are some local donation centers near St. Louis University where you can give back to the community:

• St. Vincent de Paul: Located at 1310 Papin St, St. Louis, MO 63103. They accept donations of clothing, household items, and furniture.
• Goodwill: With several locations in St. Louis, Goodwill is a convenient place to donate gently used clothing and household goods.
• The Salvation Army: You can drop off donations at their Family Store and Donation Center at 2911 N Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63107.

Donating is a great way to support local communities and reduce waste.

Cleaning Playlist

Make cleaning more enjoyable with a playlist that keeps you energized. Check out the “Focus Flow” playlist on Spotify, which features a mix of indie and electronic tracks perfect for staying motivated while you tidy up.

Final Tips for a Clutter-Free Life

• Stay Flexible: Life can be unpredictable, so don’t stress if you miss a cleaning day. Just get back on track as soon as you can.
• Make It Fun: Put on your favorite music or invite friends over to make cleaning a social event.
• Reward Yourself: After a cleaning session, treat yourself to something you enjoy, like a favorite snack or a short break outside.

By following these tips, you can maintain a clean and organized space even with a busy schedule. And remember, every donation counts in supporting our St. Louis community.Stay organized and inspired by following us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vervestl/ for more cleaning tips and updates from VERVE St. Louis!