Living Alone: Juggling Laundry, Cooking, and Housecleaning

My friends often wonder how I manage household chores so well in my busy schedule. To me, there are three main things: laundry, cooking, and housecleaning. Many busy people tend to neglect one of these aspects or seek assistance from others. For instance, some opt for laundry services, especially for dress shirts that require ironing. Others choose to eat out instead of cooking at home. There are also those who rely on robotic vacuum cleaners or clean the house less frequently. Somehow, I've learned to handle all three chores, squeezing them in between my busy schedule.

Laundry is a breeze. Toss the clothes in the washing machine, press a button, and you're done. While hanging clothes might take a little time, it's still manageable. But some clothes require special care, like linen or knitted garments. They need hand washing and delicate drying on a flat surface. So, I set aside a specific day to wash these items, often combining it with my shower time. It saves time and ensures I don't end up getting wet during the process.

Housecleaning isn't overly difficult, but it can be a bit of a hassle. Dust accumulates daily, even if I'm away for a day or two. To tackle it, I rely on a convenient disposable paper wiper mop. It allows me to easily mop the floors while catching up on my favorite TV show or waiting for the microwave. For those stubborn spots, a damp cloth does the trick. Cleaning the bathroom can be a bit bothersome, but the satisfaction of a sparkling clean space makes it worthwhile.

Cooking is where things get a little more challenging. It requires creativity, planning, and effective inventory management. Plus, there's dishwashing afterward. To simplify the cooking process, I often start with ready-made retort food. I jazz it up by adding my own ingredients to create a tasty dish. When I have time, I turn to meal kits that provide pre-measured ingredients and recipes. On special occasions or when I'm in the mood for a culinary adventure, I cook from scratch. During cooking, I make a conscious effort to use fewer dishes, making cleanup a breeze.

It's important to find a balance between household chores and establish a routine that works for you. Prioritize your tasks based on importance and urgency, allowing flexibility for unexpected events. It's also essential to take breaks and allocate time for self-care. By staying organized and incorporating these strategies, you can manage the challenges of living alone while creating a comfortable and enjoyable living space.

laundry: ˈlȯn-drē, ˈlän-

opt: ˈäpt

linen: ˈli-nən 리넌

garment: ˈgär-mənt

retort: ri-ˈtȯrt 레토르트 아니고 리토올트

culinary: ˈkə-lə-ˌner-ē 컬러네리 ˈkyü-  ˈkü-

allocate: ˈa-lə-ˌkāt 얼러케이트

breeze: something easily done

jazz up: to make (something) more interesting, exciting, or attractive