Maintaining a clean home can be challenging for anyone, but for disabled veterans, physical limitations and chronic pain can make it even more difficult. Fortunately, there are practical, time-saving, and accessible cleaning hacks that can make a big difference. Whether you’re living independently or receiving support, these tips can help you maintain a clean and comfortable space with less effort.
My husband was in the Air Force, so I was military wife for some time. I believe we lived in 11 different houses in our first 15 years of marriage. Each move meant I was cleaning and decluttering again. Check out my 6 Cleaning Tips for Military Members here.
Struggling with the daily housekeeping chores? Check out my ebook on this topic, entitled Make Over Your Homemaking. Use this link to get it at a discounted price. Also, you can get the complete digital printable copy of the Year Long Thorough Declutter Series Calendar and Checklists here. The printable digital download is delivered to your email. It includes 25 pages of printable calendar pages and checklists to help you declutter every room in your home.
8 Cleaning Hacks for Disabled Veterans
1. Use Long-Handled Tools
Mobility issues can make bending or reaching painful or impossible. Invest in long-handled dusters, brooms, and scrubbers to make it easier to clean floors, bathtubs, and hard-to-reach areas without strain.
Pro tip: A Swiffer with an extendable handle or a lightweight vacuum with swivel action can make floor cleaning less of a workout.
2. One-Handed and Grip-Friendly Tools
If you’re living with limited grip strength or the use of only one hand, look for tools that are designed for ease of use. Electric scrubbers, pump-action spray bottles, or hands-free mops can be game changers.
3. Declutter Strategically
The less clutter in your space, the less cleaning and moving things around you’ll need to do. Consider minimizing items on countertops and organizing supplies in reachable bins or drawers.
Accessible storage tip: Use clear, labeled containers or drawer organizers to keep everything visible and within arm’s reach.
4. Set Up a Cleaning Schedule
Breaking up cleaning tasks into small, manageable daily or weekly goals can reduce the physical toll and keep things from piling up.
Example:
- Monday: Wipe down surfaces
- Tuesday: Vacuum main room
- Wednesday: Bathroom touch-up
- Thursday: Laundry
- Friday: Rest or catch up
This routine keeps things manageable without burnout.
5. Leverage Adaptive Tech
Smart home devices like robot vacuums, voice-controlled lights, and smart plugs can reduce physical demands. A Roomba or similar vacuum can clean while you rest or focus on other tasks.
6. Sit and Clean
Don’t be afraid to clean from a seated position. Use a stool in the kitchen or bathroom to clean while seated, which reduces strain on your joints and back.
7. Natural, Low-Fume Cleaners
Some disabled veterans deal with respiratory issues or chemical sensitivities. Using vinegar, baking soda, or plant-based cleaners can make the environment safer and more pleasant.
8. Ask for (or Accept) Help
If you’re eligible for assistance through the VA or local veteran support groups, check if they offer home maintenance or cleaning services. There’s no shame in accepting help—it’s a well-deserved benefit.
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a burden. By using smart tools, simplifying routines, and leaning on available support, disabled veterans can maintain a clean, safe, and peaceful living space. You’ve served with strength—your home should support your well-being with the same dignity.
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