Home cleaning expert and SOL Organics ambassador Becky Rapinchuk of Clean Mama is like your online best friend when it comes to cleaning, organizing and decluttering your home. Becky, a cleaning and homekeeping expert, business owner and author of the books  Simply Clean, and The Organically Clean Home, is also a wife and mom to three, a business owner, and a former art teacher. Learn more about this green cleaning maven in our exclusive interview!

What inspired you to start your blog?

When I started Clean Mama it was 2009 – I was looking for a way to share cleaning and homekeeping with my friends and family and it just sort of took off.

 

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a blogger?

Set boundaries. Boundaries are important in all aspects of life, but they’re really important with blogging and any internet-based business. The internet runs 24/7 but it’s impossible to keep that kind of pace. Setting boundaries with time and effort put into my blog and business so the business doesn’t take over life. There are busy seasons and times when I have to put in extra hours but setting hours is really important so I can easily close the computer and walk away.

 

How do you balance your work and personal life?

They definitely intersect but when my kids are home I try to be 100% with them. That means I work really hard when they’re at school or sometimes get up early to answer emails and check in on social media.

 

We want to know: does everyone in your home pitch in when it comes to cleaning?

Yes! Everyone has age-appropriate chores that they get to do as a part of the family. I have to remind them from time to time but I’m hopeful that by the time they leave the house they’ll be able to do their own laundry and clean a bathroom.

 

 

How would you describe your home and decor style?

Simple and traditional. I like surfaces that are clear, pops of color, and simple yet traditional décor. I gravitate toward farmhouse and vintage accessories but keep a simple backdrop.

 

What is important to you when buying items for your home?

I always look for natural products and aim for items that are built to last. I never buy something just for a quick fix – I’d rather save up and buy quality so I don’t have to replace it in a year or two.

 

 

What are your favorite tools and products to help you maintain a clean and organized home?

I love glass spray bottles and microfiber cleaning cloths. I find that purchasing tools that are pretty and well-made motivate me to clean. A well-stocked cleaning caddy is always a good idea!

  

 

As a cleaning expert, what are things that make you cringe?

Harsh chemicals and toxins in cleaning products definitely make me cringe, especially when I see the research and reasons for getting rid of these chemicals. If you haven’t tried making a DIY cleaner, try this one:

WINDOW + MIRROR CLEANING SPRAY

• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol
• 3 drops peppermint essential oil

Mix in a spray bottle (I recommend using glass) spray liberally on surface and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.

 

 

Let’s talk about your bedroom. What does your bedroom look like? What’s currently on your bedside table?

We have a large bedroom – it’s simple with a king-sized bed, matching bedside tables, and a large dresser. We also have a small sofa in the bedroom for lounging.

I always keep a small dish on my bedside table with lip gloss, hand and foot lotion, along with my current read with the hopes that I’ll be able to take a couple minutes to read before my head hits the pillow.

 

What are the must-have items in your bedroom for your best night’s sleep? Anything prohibited from entering your bedroom?

Organic cotton bedding a down comforter, and duvet (I love SOL Organics!). I find that we sleep better on organic cotton – it’s more comfortable and free from anything you wouldn’t want on your skin.

No electronic devices or phones in the bedrooms, we do have a television but it’s in a cabinet so we can close the doors.

 

 

Tell us how you unwind from your day; what’s your night-time ritual?

I like to have a cup of tea in the evening, read, or catch up on a show or series with my husband.

 

What are your tips for getting the best night’s sleep?

Turning off the screens and keeping electronics off. I also love lavender and cedarwood essential oils diffused in the bedroom to calm and relax.

 

How do you get your day started in the morning?

I get up pretty early (between 4 and 5 am) and get the coffee started and unload the dishwasher. Then I head to the gym and start with a workout. I’m home a couple minutes after 6 am and get the kids up, fed, and off to school. Then a cup of coffee or two and a smoothie for breakfast around 8am. Next I do a cleaning task or two and then I start working.

 

As a leading online voice in cleaning and home organization, what advice do you have for individuals looking to start a routine and maintain an organized home?

Get up just a little bit earlier than you usually do and just start! Set a timer for 5-10 minutes and do something! I recommend starting with making your bed, doing one load of laundry, and taking care of a little clutter for 5 minutes.

 

 

Which cleaning habits do you think consumers need to change?

Being proactive instead of reactive. Do a little bit every day instead of waiting for when you can’t stand it anymore or on one day a week. Messes happen all day long, staying on top of them will ensure that you spend the least amount of time cleaning!

 

 

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