Getting into a good housekeeping routine?

[wrinklyraisin]

The next few months both dp and I will be working 10 on 2 off shifts and the house is going to go to hell unless I can figure out a good routine! Any tips for keeping on top of things in about 30mins a day? The thought of us having nearly no quality time together is daunting enough without the misery of a tip of a house around us! We have 2 dogs, a cat, a dsd and her two cousins 3 evenings a week plus every other weekend. Dp does his fair share of housework but laundry and cooking is my domain. Would love to hear any time saving tips!

Not sure how it works when you're on shifts but here's my routine (in progress) I have 2dc - toddler and preschooler

Tidy kitchen and put dishwasher on after kids asleep (8pm ish). Unload before bed. this includes sweeping floor and surfaces etc
Tidy living room after kids asleep too.
Washer on when come down for breakfast. Unload during day if possible or when do kitchen clear-up. I don't have a tumble dryer so all goes on a rack. Dry stuff is then put away.
This is how I keep on top of the basics.

While Dd naps I spend 15-20 mins doing one job a day - changibg beds, bathroom cleaning, dusting, bill paying etc etc. if you move at spew you can get lots done this quickly.

HTH :)

Thanks I have started trying to break down chores into 15 minute chunks. It's the whole picture that's overwhelming I guess, can't see the wood for the trees.

Hopefully in reality it'll be easier than it feels. Or I'll be too tired/busy to stress over it all!