Keeping the home clean and tidy has always been a bit of a chore for me and my family. But, when we choose to do a few simple things every day, it really doesn't take that much to keep your home clean and tidy.
Here are a few quick and easy things you can do daily to help:
1. Start Small with a Daily 10-Minute Declutter
Instead of overwhelming yourself with a full-day decluttering marathon, set a timer for 10 minutes each day. Focus on one small area, like a drawer or a section of the counter, and work through it. Consistent, bite-sized sessions are more manageable and effective for busy schedules.
2. Use the “One-In, One-Out” Rule
For every new item that comes into your home, make sure one item leaves. This helps prevent clutter from building up, especially with kids constantly bringing in toys, clothes, or school supplies.
3. Create a Drop Zone by the Entrance
Designate a space near the entrance for shoes, bags, and keys. Having a specific place for these items will keep the rest of your home free from scattered belongings and make it easier to get out the door in the mornings.
4. Use Bins and Baskets for Quick Clean-Ups
Keep decorative baskets or bins in key areas like the living room or bedrooms for quick and easy clean-ups. You can toss toys, books, or random items into them when you need to tidy up in a hurry.
6. Get the Kids Involved
Assign age-appropriate tasks to your kids. Decluttering can be a family activity, and it teaches kids responsibility. For younger children, make it a game where they "find 5 things to give away" or "put 10 toys in the basket."
7. Use the “Touch Once” Rule
When dealing with paperwork, toys, or clothes, adopt the "touch once" rule. If you pick some
thing up, deal with it right away—either put it where it belongs, donate it, or throw it away. This minimizes the time spent moving the same items around the house.
8. Keep Flat Surfaces Clear
Flat surfaces like counters and tables tend to attract clutter. Commit to keeping these spaces clear as much as possible. A clear counter instantly makes the whole room feel more organized and calm.
9. Utilize Vertical Storage
For small spaces, think vertical. Use shelves, hooks, or hanging organizers to maximize wall space, especially in areas like the pantry, closets, or bathrooms. This helps you keep things off the floor and more easily accessible.
10. Create a “Maybe” Box
If you're unsure about certain items, put them in a “maybe” box. Store the box out of sight for a month or two. If you haven't needed or missed any of the items during that time, it’s safe to donate or dispose of them.
11. Tackle Small Tasks During Routine Activities
Make the most of your daily routines by adding quick, clutter-busting tasks. For example, while waiting for dinner to cook, unload or load the dishwasher. Or, when you’re washing your hands in the bathroom, take an extra minute to wipe down the counter. These small, extra tasks only take a couple of minutes but, when done consistently, they help keep clutter and mess under control without adding to your already busy schedule.
Want an easy and fun way to help keep yourself, and your family, motivated to keep your house tidy? Grab these tidy-up cards, print them out and keep them handy. It's a quick and easy way for everyone to know what needs done in each area of the house.
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Homemade applesauce is a favorite in my family. So when we can get our hands on a lot of apples, it's one of my favorite things to make and preserve. I like to can the applesauce in 1/2 pint jars, perfect for one serving size to pack in lunches. Of course, we always have to have a little bowl of it freshly made too. It makes the house smell so good, we just can't resist!
First, the recipe for cinnamon applesauce. This recipe is for a small batch. I like to do 3x this recipe if I am just making it to eat (without canning). This gives us a few containers to stock up in the refrigerator. When I am canning, I like to do 6x the recipe.
Tip: Prepare jars, lids, and canner while applesauce is cooking to speed up the process.
Homemade Cinnamon Applesauce
Ingredients
- 2 pounds apples*, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2/3 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt*
- 2-3 teaspoons raw honey
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients, except honey, in a 2-quart saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cover, lower heat to medium. Cook for 20 minutes, or until apples are soft and are easy to mash.
- Remove pan from heat and allow to cool for about 15 min before removing lid.
- Stir in honey and mash apples to desired consistency.
Notes:
*I like to use a combination of apples, depending on how tart I want it. Our favorites are green, gala, and fuji
*I like to use himalayan or celtic salt
Now that you have your delicious applesauce made, if you have any leftover, it's time to can it for longterm storage. Keep the applesauce warm while you prepare for canning.
Steps for Water Bath Canning:
1. Prepare Your Jars and Lids
- Start by inspecting your jars for any cracks or chips. Only use those in perfect condition.
- Wash your jars in hot soapy water, or run them through a dishwasher cycle to sanitize them.
- Submerge the jars in your large pot filled with water, make sure you have the canning rack in the bottom of the pot. Bring the water to a simmer (not a full boil) and keep the jars hot until you’re ready to use them. This helps prevent cracking when adding hot food.
- Place the lids in a small saucepan of simmering water (do not boil) to soften the sealing compound.
2. Prepare the Recipe
If you haven't already made the applesauce, now is the time to get it started.
If you haven't already made the applesauce, now is the time to get it started.
3. Fill the Jars
- Remove one jar at a time from the simmering water, using your jar lifter. Pour out any water inside.
- Use a funnel to fill the jar with applesauce, leaving ½-inch headspace.
- Use a non-metallic spatula to remove any trapped air bubbles by gently sliding it down the sides of the jar.
- Wipe the rim of the jar with a clean, damp cloth dipped in vinegar to ensure a proper seal.
- Place a lid on the jar and screw on the band until fingertip-tight (don’t overtighten).
4. Process the Jars
- Once the jars are filled and sealed, place them on a canning rack inside your pot of boiling water. Make sure there’s at least 1-2 inches of water covering the jars. If you need to add more water, make sure it is hot water.
- Place the lid on the pot and bring the water to a rolling boil. If using a canner, do not use the pressure cap.
- Start timing once the water reaches a full boil.
Times: Half-Pint: 15 min
Pint: 20 min
Quart: 20 min - Also be sure you adjust times for your altitude.
5. Cool the Jars
- Once the processing time is complete, turn off the burner and remove the lid. DO NOT move the canner off of the burner.
- Let sit for 5 minutes, then carefully remove the jars using the jar lifter. Place them on a towel or wooden board, leaving space between jars.
- Allow to cool for 12–24 hours without touching the lids or bands. As the jars cool, you’ll hear the satisfying "ping" sound that indicates they’ve sealed.
6. Check the Seal
- After 24 hours, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid does not pop back, it’s sealed. If it pops, you’ll need to refrigerate the jar and consume the contents within a week.
- Once sealed, remove the screw-on ring. You do not want to store the jars with the ring on because it can give you a false seal. If the jar is properly sealed, the lid will stay on until you open it.
7. Store and Enjoy
- Label your jars with the contents and the date. Store them in a cool, dark place. Properly sealed jars will last up to a year or more.
- When you open the sealed jar, use a ring to keep it closed.
- Refrigerate after opening.
A Note of Caution:
When it comes to canning, safety is key. It’s essential to only use approved canning recipes from trusted sources like the USDA, Ball, or other reputable food preservation organizations. These recipes have been tested to ensure they provide the right acidity levels and processing times to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, particularly botulism, which thrives in low-acid, improperly canned foods. By following tested recipes, you’ll ensure that your canned goods are safe for your family to enjoy.
When it comes to canning, safety is key. It’s essential to only use approved canning recipes from trusted sources like the USDA, Ball, or other reputable food preservation organizations. These recipes have been tested to ensure they provide the right acidity levels and processing times to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, particularly botulism, which thrives in low-acid, improperly canned foods. By following tested recipes, you’ll ensure that your canned goods are safe for your family to enjoy.
Happy Canning!
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Canning seems to be one of those long-lost skills that is making it's way back into homes again. Yes, some have continued to do it. But with homesteading on the rise, there are so many who have never canned and didn't grow up with it either. I have been canning, off and on, for almost 15 years. It was a necessity due to some of my daughter's special dietary needs. For the past year or 2 I have been canning more regularly and it's such a great feeling when I open up my pantry and see all of my home-canned goods. Not only do I know exactly what is in each jar, but it's also a nice feeling to know that I am contributing to my family's health and that we don't have to rely on other people/stores for our food.
Now, let's talk about water bath canning. It is an excellent option for high-acid foods such as fruits, jams, jellies, and pickles. It’s easy to master and doesn’t require any fancy equipment beyond a large pot and a few canning supplies. In this post, I’ll walk you through the steps for water bath canning. Two of my favorites to can are applesauce and pear or apple slices. I'll be sharing those recipes soon!
What is Water Bath Canning?
Water bath canning is a method used for preserving high-acid foods by submerging jars in boiling water for a specified amount of time. The heat forces air out of the jars, creates a vacuum seal, and destroys mold, yeast, and bacteria that could cause spoilage.
Equipment You’ll Need:
- A large pot with a lid (canner or a deep stockpot)
- Canning rack (or something to keep jars off the bottom of the pot)
- Canning jars with lids and bands
- Jar lifter
- Ladle and funnel
- Towels and cloths for wiping jars
- Non-metallic spatula for removing air bubbles
- Labels for marking contents and date
*Most of your canning supplies can be found in a set like this: Canning Supplies Starter Kit - be sure you check measurements to ensure that the canning rack fits into you stockpot or canner.
Steps for Water Bath Canning:
1. Prepare Your Jars and Lids
- Start by inspecting your jars for any cracks or chips. Only use those in perfect condition.
- Wash your jars in hot soapy water, or run them through a dishwasher cycle to sanitize them.
- Submerge the jars in your large pot filled with water, make sure you have the canning rack in the bottom of the pot. Bring the water to a simmer (not a full boil) and keep the jars hot until you’re ready to use them. This helps prevent cracking when adding hot food.
- Place the lids in a small saucepan of simmering water (do not boil) to soften the sealing compound.
2. Prepare the Recipe
Make sure whatever you are canning is made and ready to go before you start the canning process. Some items, like applesauce, can be cooking while you prep your canner and bring it up to the proper heat.
Make sure whatever you are canning is made and ready to go before you start the canning process. Some items, like applesauce, can be cooking while you prep your canner and bring it up to the proper heat.
3. Fill the Jars
- Remove one jar at a time from the simmering water, using your jar lifter. Pour out any water inside.
- Use a funnel to fill the jar with your prepared food, leaving the appropriate headspace (usually 1/2 inch for fruits).
- Use a non-metallic spatula to remove any trapped air bubbles by gently sliding it down the sides of the jar.
- Wipe the rim of the jar with a clean, damp cloth dipped in vinegar to ensure a proper seal.
- Place a lid on the jar and screw on the band until fingertip-tight (don’t overtighten).
4. Process the Jars
- Once the jars are filled and sealed, place them on a canning rack inside your pot of boiling water. Make sure there’s at least 1-2 inches of water covering the jars. If you need to add more water, make sure it is hot water.
- Place the lid on the pot and bring the water to a rolling boil. If using a canner, do not use the pressure cap.
- Start timing once the water reaches a full boil. Most fruit recipes require 20–30 minutes of processing, but always refer to your recipe for exact times.
- Also be sure you adjust times for your altitude.
5. Cool the Jars
- Once the processing time is complete, turn off the burner and remove the lid. DO NOT move the canner off of the burner.
- Let sit for 5 minutes, then carefully remove the jars using the jar lifter. Place them on a towel or wooden board, leaving space between jars.
- Allow to cool for 12–24 hours without touching the lids or bands. As the jars cool, you’ll hear the satisfying "ping" sound that indicates they’ve sealed.
6. Check the Seal
- After 24 hours, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid does not pop back, it’s sealed. If it pops, you’ll need to refrigerate the jar and consume the contents within a week.
- Once sealed, remove the screw-on ring. You do not want to store the jars with the ring on because it can give you a false seal. If the jar is properly sealed, the lid will stay on until you open it.
7. Store and Enjoy
- Label your jars with the contents and the date. Store them in a cool, dark place. Properly sealed jars will last up to a year or more.
- When you open the sealed jar, use a ring to keep it closed.
- Refrigerate after opening.
A Note of Caution:
When it comes to canning, safety is key. It’s essential to only use approved canning recipes from trusted sources like the USDA, Ball, or other reputable food preservation organizations. These recipes have been tested to ensure they provide the right acidity levels and processing times to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, particularly botulism, which thrives in low-acid, improperly canned foods. By following tested recipes, you’ll ensure that your canned goods are safe for your family to enjoy.
When it comes to canning, safety is key. It’s essential to only use approved canning recipes from trusted sources like the USDA, Ball, or other reputable food preservation organizations. These recipes have been tested to ensure they provide the right acidity levels and processing times to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, particularly botulism, which thrives in low-acid, improperly canned foods. By following tested recipes, you’ll ensure that your canned goods are safe for your family to enjoy.
Happy Canning!
Join our HomeGrown Homestead community—a place where we learn, grow, and share our homesteading journey together, fostering a bond of shared wisdom and experience. (everyone is welcome!)
Step into Lavender & Coffee: A Sip of Serenity, a haven for moms seeking support and community on their journey to fulfilling their roles as wives and mothers with grace and purpose.(for moms only)
If you are not familiar with soap nuts, then let me take a moment to introduce you to them. Soap nuts, also known as soapberries, are a natural alternative to chemical-based soaps and detergents. They are actually not a nut, but a fruit that comes from the Sapindus genus of trees and shrubs, which grow primarily in tropical regions such as India, Nepal, and parts of Southeast Asia. The most commonly used variety is Sapindus mukorossi, often called the Indian soapberry. The outer shells of these berries contain a natural soap-like substance called saponin, which is released when they come in contact with water. And, believe it or not, I have actually seen some growing here in the state of Oklahoma.
How They Work:
The saponin in soap nuts acts as a natural surfactant, which lowers the surface tension of water and lifts dirt and grime from fabrics, surfaces, and even skin. When soap nuts are added to water, they create a mild suds-like solution, similar to soap, making them effective for cleaning purposes. They are gentle yet efficient, making them suitable for people with sensitive skin, babies, and those who prefer eco-friendly cleaning options.
Ways to Use Soap Nuts:
- Laundry Detergent:Soap nuts are most commonly used as a natural laundry detergent. Simply place 4-6 whole soap nuts in a small muslin bag or sock, tie it up, and toss it into the washing machine. They can be reused for 3-5 loads. Once the nuts lose their soapy feel, it's time to replace them...although, depending on the nut, I can get a few more loads out of them. I just replace the broken down ones with new ones and continue using the remaining one until it's used up. They tend to get paper-thin when it's time to replace them.
- Multipurpose Cleaner:You can make a liquid soap by boiling soap nuts in water. Use the liquid as an all-purpose cleaner for counters, floors, and other household surfaces. The solution can also be used for dishwashing or as a hand soap. Be sure to keep this liquid in the refrigerator if not using it within a week to help maintain freshness and potency.
- Shampoo & Body Wash:Soap nuts can be used to make a natural shampoo or body wash. The liquid extract from soap nuts cleanses hair and skin without stripping natural oils, making it a gentle option for those with sensitive or dry skin.
- Produce Wash:Since soap nuts are non-toxic, their liquid extract can be used to wash fruits and vegetables. It helps to remove dirt and pesticide residues without adding any harmful chemicals.
- Insect Repellent:Soap nuts also have mild insecticidal properties and can be used to wash plants to deter pests or as a natural solution for controlling lice or fleas on pets.
- Jewelry Cleaner:A diluted soap nut solution is gentle enough to clean jewelry, restoring its shine without harsh chemicals.
Environmental Benefits:
Soap nuts are completely biodegradable and compostable, making them an eco-friendly choice for household cleaning. They also come from renewable sources, as the trees continue to produce fruit year after year.
Now, is your mind blown like mine was when I first learned about them?? Another good thing is that the "nuts" themselves last a super long time, making them a perfect addition to your stash. I always keep some on hand so that if I run out of one of my regular detergents or cleaners, I can pull them out and make exactly what I need, when I need it.
Here are a couple of ways I have purchased them:
Soap Nuts, 8 oz - Smaller amount, but with a little informative booklet, as well as a travel bottle and muslin bag.
Soap Nuts 2.2 lb - Big bag of soap nuts and a muslin bag.
If you give these a try, I'd love to know what you think and how you used them.
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If you have been following me for very long, you know that my family is diving into homesteading. In truth, we have been inching towards it for about 15 years. However, we have never owned our own land and the homes we have lived in have had very little land. But, we started a small garden, learned to can our own foods, cook/bake from scratch, learned about natural remedies for our health...the list goes on.
In the past year, we also added livestock...again, not having any land of our own. We have 50+ goats (for meat), 2 great pyrenees pups that will soon be guarding the goats (currently on another friend's land), did a large scale garden (again, on a friend's land), and also have a cow (once again, on another friend's land). And we just added a set of bunnies (to breed) to our backyard. Boy, that was a mouthful to type!
The general idea is that you sometimes have to think outside the box. Our goal is to own our own land soon, with many acres. We will then move all of our livestock and gardening onto that land. Little by little, we are turning our home into a homestead. We may be doing it all a tad backwards, but this way, we won't have to do it all at once. We have a lot of what we need, we just need the land to go with it.
We also do some gardening where we live. I have a windowsill herb garden, use a tower garden to grow certain things year-round indoors, and we have a few fruit trees in containers, as well as some flowers and other herbs outside.
Since we are fairly new to the livestock aspect of homesteading, we have found some great homesteaders to follow. One of our favorites is Homesteaders of America. They put together so much information from all areas of homesteading. It's pretty much a one-stop shop for your homesteading needs. My guys have learned so much through them about livestock, I have learned even more about canning and preserving foods. Trust me, it's one to check out for sure!
No matter where you live, if you have a heart to homestead, start looking around and gathering resources. Chances are you will find your own little community to join efforts with. It's such an amazing feeling to know that you are able to provide so much not only for your family, but for others too.
Happy Homesteading!
Happy Homesteading!
Join our HomeGrown Homestead community—a place where we learn, grow, and share our homesteading journey together, fostering a bond of shared wisdom and experience. (everyone is welcome!)
Step into Lavender & Coffee: A Sip of Serenity, a haven for moms seeking support and community on their journey to fulfilling their roles as wives and mothers with grace and purpose.(for moms only)
