These days, keeping things simple can save us time, stress, and money. And although it may not seem like it, almost every room in your home has at least one way for keeping things simple and smart. From how to clean the kitchen to getting two things done at once, try a few of these “simple ways,” and before you know it, you’ll be in the habit of keeping it simple all the time.

One-pot meals: There’s nothing better than throwing a ton of great ingredients into one big pot and serving it for dinner. Whether it’s a big batch of soup or a slow-cooker recipe, these simple meals mean just one thing to cook, serve, and most importantly, clean. Find recipes or great ideas by searching the Internet for “one pot meals.”

Washing plastics by hand: While there’s no hard scientific data, the jury is still out on the long-term effects of washing plastics in the dishwasher. Keep that kind of stress away from your day-to-day by simply choosing to wash plastics by hand. It doesn’t take a ton of time, and it will save you the worry. Just wash with a little bit of trusted dish liquid, warm water, a scrub brush, and let air-dry.

Two in one: From last night’s dinner to last week’s garbage, a host of smells live in your kitchen. Keeping the air fresh can be a challenge. Try Dawn^® Simple Pleasures^TM for a light, fresh scent all around your kitchen. It’s a dish liquid with an air freshener built right into the base so it’s constantly working to eliminate odors and freshen the air.

Make clutter decisions: This can be tough to do since some difficult decisions need to be made. But ultimately, it will not only free up space, but also make your mind feel more clear. Start with one room or one closet and get rid of or donate all of the items you don’t use anymore or haven’t worn in more than a year. If the process seems too overwhelming, give yourself a time frame. De-clutter for just an hour, and then try again on another day. Your efforts will add up.

Hand saving dish liquid: Taking care of your hands while you do the dishes is a simple way to get two things done at once. Try a dish liquid like, Dawn^® Hand Renewal^TM. It gives you softer feeling hands after just five dish washes, leaving your hands feeling smooth and rejuvenated.

Limit computer communication: We have so many ways to communicate with friends, family, co-workers and colleagues. But sometimes, it can seem like too much. Try limiting the number of times you check your email a day (say, twice) or give yourself an hour to re-connect with friends in social Internet circles. Then stop and move on to something else.