What is the 20-minute rule in cleaning?
Ever noticed how some people seem to keep their homes spotless without spending hours cleaning? That’s the magic of the 20-minute rule — a practical, psychology-backed method that helps you stay on top of mess before it piles up. The idea is simple: set a timer for 20 minutes and clean one area, one task, or one room. Then stop. This bite-sized approach isn’t just about cleanliness — it’s about momentum, motivation, and mental clarity. And yes, it works just as well in offices as it does at home. What Is the 20-Minute Rule in Cleaning? The 20-minute rule is a behavioural nudge that leverages the “ commitment and consistency ” principle from Cialdini’s persuasion framework. Once you commit to cleaning for a small, manageable period, your brain feels compelled to stay consistent — often leading you to clean longer than planned. Here’s how it works: Set a timer for 20 minutes. Pick one task (like wiping surfaces or sorting the fridge). Stop when the timer rings — e...