139: It’s Always Darkest Before The Don
Ok, so here’s the plan: Andrew is coming down to Portland and then we’re going to load up Lola and head to Idaho so we can visit the Actual Happiest Place on Earth:
THE MUSEUM OF CLEAN!!!
I really do want to go, especially after reading this Atlas Obscura article that describes Don Aslett’s personal collection of “250 pre-electric vacuums” and belief that cleaning is a way of life.
Don is truly the patron saint of Spotless. In addition to the museum, he’s also the author of 40 (!) books with titles including:
Who Says It's A Woman's Job To Clean?
Clutter’s Last Stand
Make Your House Do the Housework
I mean. The man is an icon. I just ordered a copy of the first title in that list on Better World Books and I can’t wait to share with you all.
Here’s an interesting tidbit about Don that I think is noteworthy: He’s a devout LDS member! Yes, Don Aslett is a Mormon - and yet, somehow, seems to have kind of progressive views on housework? Impossible things happen every day, I tell you. But here’s why Don is really such a great reference for Spotless - he’s big into prevention and making easy fixes. According to his Wikipedia, “Aslett says that the amount of time spent cleaning can be reduced 75% by if the homeowner were to reduce clutter, get the right cleaning tools, and make them accessible.”
This is what we always say! The best vacuum is the one you’ll actually use. The cleanest room is the one that is easiest to keep clean. And if you have a doom corner or a beastly laundry chair that you can’t stand, figure out a way to store your shit for good, rather than for a little bit.
In need of some spring cleaning motivation? Consider this quote from Don:
“Nothing will change your life faster than when you throw away your junk. You have more time, you have more space, you feel better, you're healthier.”
So there you go. You don’t even need to throw it away - recycle it, reuse it, regift it, list it on NextDoor, donate it to a local shelter. If you’ve got stuff that’s in good shape, it can find a good home. Because it’s not that stuff is bad - it’s just that not all stuff is a good fit for your home.
In other news, if you want a number, all you have to do is call! You really don’t even have to make your case, but we do enjoy hearing how and why you love the show. Don’t forget to tell your friends!