American Cleaning Institute conducted a national survey in 2000 and found that 82 percent of moms would love to have the housework vacation they enjoyed on Mother’s Day more often.
Sandy Beckwith, author and creator of Why Can’t A Man be More Like a Woman?, explains that today’s mothers must manage so many more responsibilities. She also created the Do(o) Little Report which is a humorous look at male behavior. Even though many mothers work full-time, the survey showed that 46 percent of households still have women doing most of the housework. This is a decrease of only 11% from a generation ago. Beckwith says that a one-day vacation from housework is not enough, when workers can expect to take 10 vacation days every year.
Eighty percent of Americans believe mothers should be given more than one day off in a year (87% for men and 44% for women). ACI offers the Vacation From Housework Certificate which is good for 10 days of free housework. This certificate is great for spouses and children who are grateful. To help mom feel relaxed about her housework after she cashes in the certificate, ACI also offers How to Help Mom on Her Vacation Days. This provides basic cleaning tips.
How to Help Mom on Her Vacation Days highlights the importance of reading labels and following instructions. It also highlights key tips by household task. These are some tips:
Laundry
- To prevent dyes from bleeding onto lighter-colored fabrics, separate colors from whites. Separate heavily soiled items and lightly soiled items.
- Match the load with the water level and wash cycle.
Kitchen
- After preparing or eating food, wipe up any crumbs with a damp sponge or paper towel.
- To get rid of dirt and dust, sweep the floor before you mop it.
The Family Room
- Spray a dusting agent on a soft, clean cloth. Use a damp rag or paper towel to dust wood furniture. This will spread the dust and scratch the finish.
- To prevent wood surfaces from getting water spots, place a napkin or coaster under your beverage glasses.
A whole new range of cleaning products makes it easier to clean. Beckwith says that if you follow the tips in How To Help Mom on Her Vacation Days, there is no reason why children and husbands can’t help more around the house. And moms shouldn’t allow it.” Let’s be honest, guys! Give mom more than just a day of chores this Mother’s Day.
Opinion Research Corporation International conducted the 2000 ACI National Cleaning Survey. This survey included telephone interviews with approximately 1,003 adults aged 18 and older.
How to help mom on her vacation days
ACI created this “cheat sheet”, which is for spouses and kids, so mom doesn’t have to clean up after a well-deserved vacation.
Always Keep in Mind
- Pay attention to the label on cleaning products. Different products may work differently and have different instructions. To get the best results, follow the instructions. If you have any questions, call the 1-800 number listed on the label.
- Do not mix cleaning products. They can produce dangerous fumes.
Laundry
The following tips can ensure a successful load, whether you are doing your laundry yourself or if mom is doing it.
- To prevent dyes from bleeding onto lighter-colored fabrics, separate colors from whites. Separate heavily soiled items and lightly soiled items.
- Match the wash cycle to the load.
- Use the recommended detergent amount.
Bathroom
Mom taking a vacation doesn’t mean she should neglect family hygiene and good manners. These are some things you should remember:
- Before they harden, remove toothpaste globs from your sink.
- To prevent mildew growth, hang up damp towels and keep shower doors and curtains closed after using them.
- After using the toilet, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
Kitchen
Even mom can make a mess in the kitchen. To clean up, we recommend:
- After preparing or eating food, wipe up any crumbs with a damp sponge or paper towel.
- Spills should be cleaned up immediately after they are dried.
- To get rid of dirt and dust, sweep the floor before you mop it.
The Family Room
The family room is the center of all activities and requires a lot more attention than others. Do not forget to:
- When vacuuming, you should take six to eight strokes on each area. Make sure you move all furniture.
- To dust wood furniture, spray a dusting agent on a soft, clean cloth. Use a damp rag or paper towel to dust wood furniture. This will spread the dust and scratch the finish.
- To prevent wood surfaces from getting water spots, place a napkin or coaster under your beverage glasses.