It’s been years since Apple launched that gimmicky “there’s an app for that” campaign, but it is admittedly accurate as catchy ad slogans go. Apps truly have become ubiquitous: You have apps to help you work out efficiently and apps to save money at your favourite coffee shop, and with spring cleaning around the corner, you might as well have one (or several) to help you tidy your home.
The app can’t do the work for you, but a good one can motivate or guide you, so the one that will best serve your needs will depend on how you prefer to tackle unpleasant or tedious tasks.
If you like to-do lists: Spotless
Spotless helps you break down cleaning tasks by room. You can make a separate to-do list for every room in your home, then set reminders for how often you want to do the tasks in each. It keeps track of when your last cleaning for each location — countertops, tubs, whatever you want — took place, and reminds you when they’re due for another spiff-up. The interface is simple and tidy-looking, not overwhelming, and easy to use.
If you need reminders: Clean My House
Task lists are great (and abundant across the app stores) but not that useful if you’re someone who’s just going to avoid opening your app to look at them. Clean My House is designed to remind you every day about what the day’s cleaning schedule should look like — “No more worrying of what to do every morning.” You’re in control of how often each notification pops up and once you complete it, just tap the reminder to open the app and mark it off.
Available on: Android
If you need to delegate: OurHome
Cleaning is not a one-person job, but if you’re using an app that only you can see, it will feel like it. OurHome gameifies cleaning and ropes the whole family in. Not only do you assign tasks to each person within the app, but you can also set rewards for them, so you know they’ll stick with it. Plus, there are other functionalities in here that other cleaning apps don’t have. You can create a shared grocery list, for instance, that allows everyone in the home to add what they need from the next Target run.
If you like earning points: DONE
What is it about a simple point-earning system that keeps us returning to app games? If you’re the kind of person who is motivated by Snap or Duolingo streaks, DONE might actually encourage you to clean your home. Set a goal and watch a pretty little bar fill up with colour every time you complete your preferred task, whether it’s cleaning- or lifestyle-related. You can train yourself to get those sweet, sweet points by scrubbing out your tub or drinking enough water every day.
Available on: iOS
Bonus: TikTok
If you need cleaning inspiration, maybe checklists aren’t the way to go. Depending on what really motivates you, you might be better off using TikTok. No, really: The app is full of “Cleantok” influencers who share their top tidying tips, plus real reviews, product recommendations, and hacks. Seeing others use tips and tricks to battle their clutter and dirt is weirdly inspirational and will put you right in a cleaning mood.
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