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One Way You Might Be Sabotaging Your Own Vacation

Shifrah Combiths
Shifrah Combiths
With five children, Shifrah is learning a thing or two about how to keep a fairly organized and pretty clean house with a grateful heart in a way that leaves plenty of time for the people who matter most. Shifrah grew up in San Francisco, but has come to appreciate smaller town life in Tallahassee, Florida, which she now calls home. She's been writing professionally for twenty years and she loves lifestyle photography, memory keeping, gardening, reading, and going to the beach with her husband and children.
published Jun 27, 2018
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Besides the relaxation and change of pace offered by a vacation while it’s happening, an additional benefit of taking time off is being primed to appreciate and enjoy your own home, routines, and everyday life again. Nothing kills this buzz more, though, than returning to a home that slams you with unpleasant demands the minute you walk in the door.

By taking some purposeful measures before you leave for vacation, you can ensure that the home you return to welcomes you with open arms and that your re-entry is as comforting, predictable, and smooth as possible.

Try to do these things before you leave and when you get back:

Before you leave:

  • Take out the garbage.
  • Run the dishwasher, empty it, and leave it open a crack to allow for air circulation.
  • Clean out the fridge of any food that will perish while you’re gone.
  • Pick up clutter around the house.
  • Make a meal plan and shopping list for the week you’ll be back.
  • Consider scheduling a grocery delivery for the day you get back or the day after.
  • Leave the thermostat at a moderately comfortable temperature or set the timer for it to cool the house before your return.
  • Make sure your bed is made. (If you’re feeling extra on-top-of-it, wash your sheets and make your bed with them just before you leave.)

In the first 24 hours after your return:

  • Empty your suitcase and sort dirty laundry.
  • Put your travel toiletries away.
  • Put your luggage away.
  • Wash, dry, and put away your vacation laundry.
  • Have those groceries delivered, if you haven’t yet.

What are your best tips for a pleasant return home from vacation?

Filed in:
Cleaning
Travel