What is Cleaning Anyway?

SummaryCleaning isn’t just about making things look pretty; it’s all about how your space feels! Lacey and Sara dive into the overwhelming world of cleaning products and tackle the big question: what is cleaning, anyway? With so many products claiming to be the magic solution—from natural options to high-tech concoctions—it's easy to feel lost in the cleaning aisle. The hosts break it down into three simple steps: picking up, cleaning, and sanitizing, while emphasizing that cleaning is about removing dirt and grime, not just chasing after that “perfect” shine. So join us as we explore the ins and outs of cleaning, share some laughs, and remind you that it's perfectly okay if your home isn’t always Instagram-ready!Takeaways: Cleaning is more than just a chore; it's about creating a space that feels good. The aisle of cleaning products can be overwhelming, but starting with multipurpose cleaners is a great approach. Understanding the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting can help simplify your cleaning routine. Everyone has their own comfort level with cleanliness, so focus on what works for you and your home. It's important to find the balance between cleanliness and time management in your daily life. Cleaning doesn't have to be shame-based; it can be about maintaining comfort and utility in your space. Full DescriptionIn this episode, Lacey and Sara dive deep into the philosophy of cleaning - not just what products to use, but questioning WHY we clean in the first place! We had such a meaningful conversation about the shame and guilt many people carry around their cleaning habits. We talked about how important it is to find YOUR comfort level with cleaning, not what someone else thinks you should do.We explored how cleaning standards should reflect your current life situation rather than some arbitrary ideal. Lacey shared her personal journey with cleaning shame and how she's healing from it, focusing on how her home FEELS rather than how it LOOKS. Sara made this great point about asking yourself whether an unclean area bothers you genuinely or if it's just societal expectations making you feel bad.We ended up transforming what was supposed to be a simple Q&A about cleaning products into this wonderful philosophical discussion about removing shame from home maintenance. Lacey even shared a funny moment about cutting her daughter's curly hair in the kitchen and only cleaning up that specific spot while leaving other messes - and being okay with that! Sara mentioned her gratitude for routines, and Lacey couldn't agree more. This episode really embodied our podcast's mission: No Shame in the Home Game!Links referenced in this episode:noshameonthehomegame.comMore from the Joyful Support MovementThe Joyful Support Network PodcastsJoin the Joyful Support VillageHome Management for Everyone CourseSign up for your Weekly Dose of Joy NewsletterSponsor Joy and Create a Joy RippleMentioned in this episode:CubtaleMake parenting easier with Cubtale.CubtaleSupport JoySupport Joy at the Joyful Support Movement and create a joy ripple today.