Do you struggle to stick to a single task while cleaning your home?
WATCH: Juliet Love shows you how to make your own eco-cleaning products
While making your bed, do you notice a dirty plate on the floor and go to the kitchen? Once in the kitchen, do you see the sink needs to be cleaned and start cleaning it? And the list goes on and on.
If this sounds like you, you aren’t alone.
That’s where ‘Junebugging’ comes in – a cleaning method designed to help you stay focused and keep your home clean.
What is the Junebugging technique?
The Junebugging cleaning method simplifies and streamlines the cleaning process in your home. It was first coined and introduced by a Tumblr user several years ago, but it does the rounds on TikTok, too.
Named after June bugs (or June beetles), a type of beetle known for their distinctive behaviour of wandering off but often returning to the same place. In the Junebugging cleaning method, you remain loyal to one cleaning task; no matter how much you want to wander off and do something else, you must return to the designated task.
It also involves being really specific with your tasks.
Nikki Pebbles is a productivity researcher and business psychologist. In a video on TikTok, she explains how she uses the Junebugging method herself and with her clients.
In the video, she says, “You have an anchor point, so you’re going to be specific about what you’re cleaning.
“You’re not cleaning your bedroom; you’re cleaning your bed. You’re not cleaning the kitchen; you’re cleaning your sink.
“That is your anchor point, and you’re always going to come back to your anchor point.”
You repeat that until you finish the task, you started.
Why the Junebugging cleaning method works
At its core, the Junebugging cleaning method focuses on breaking down cleaning tasks into manageable steps. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by a long to-do list, you tackle one task at a time with determination.
Additionally, the Junebugging method relies heavily on creating checklists. Start by listing all the cleaning tasks you want to accomplish. Prioritise them and allocate specific time slots for each task. This not only keeps you on track but also helps you work out exactly where to start cleaning your home.
How to do the Junebugging method
- Choose your anchor point.
- Begin cleaning or tidying.
- If you get sidetracked, always come back to your anchor point.
- Repeat these steps as many times as needed to complete your task.
Set blocks of time
Setting time blocks for your cleaning tasks is crucial in the Junebugging method. Dedicate a fixed amount of time to each task, and don’t overextend yourself. This ensures that you maintain your energy and motivation throughout the cleaning process.
Regular maintenance is key
One of the key principles of Junebugging is consistent maintenance. By integrating short, daily cleaning routines into your schedule, you prevent clutter and dirt from accumulating, reducing the need for intensive cleaning sessions
Finish the task
No matter how many times you get distracted, you keep coming back to your anchor, and you finish the cleaning task.
Celebrate your wins
Finally, celebrate your achievements. Pat yourself on the back for completing a task, and remember to enjoy the benefits of a cleaner, more organised home.
You might also like:
11 old-school cleaning methods
How to make your own eco cleaning products
How to clean your bathroom: a 20-minute routine
Best cordless stick vacuums you need on your radar
Electrolux Ergorapido classic stick vacuum, $199, The Good Guys
Samsung Jet 90 Complete cordless stick vacuum, $899, The Good Guys
Dyson V15 Detect cordless vacuum, $999 (usually $1449), Dyson