The Ultimate Sunday Reset Checklist to Start Your Week Off Right

From putting the laundry on to practising self-care, get ahead of the game with this routine.

When it comes to our weekend Saturdays tend to be reserved for relaxing and Sundays are the day when we get ourselves prepared for the week ahead. More recently the Sunday activities have become known on social media as the 'Sunday reset'.

A Sunday reset involves taking time on a Sunday to complete different household chores such as laundry, cleaning, and food prep. The idea is to take care of these tasks when you have a free day instead of stressing about them during the workweek. The benefit of implementing a Sunday reset routine is the peace of mind it brings you.

Below, we've compiled a checklist of cleaning and organisational tasks to tackle on a Sunday to help you have a more smooth sailing week ahead.

1. Get the laundry started

Sunday is a great day to tackle all of the washing you've built up over the week. And having nice clean sheets to tuck into at the end of a long week is always satisfying.

When it comes to washing your linen sheets we recommend putting them in a cold, gentle cycle using a mild liquid detergent only. Avoid mixing with other colours and don't overload your machine either—the more water your sheets can soak up, the better. Whether washing your linen by hand or by machine, always ensure that it is thoroughly rinsed in plenty of water to remove all traces of soap, detergent and residual soiling.

2. Change towels and bath mats

According to the Cleaning Institute, your bath towels should be washed after every third use, or sooner if you notice an unpleasant smell or persistent dampness. Keep this in mind for hand towels as well, which tend to get used more frequently than bath towels.

If you forget about this during the week, Sunday is the perfect time to switch them out for a fresh set and start the week feeling nice and clean.

3. Meal prep

Meal prepping has gained significant popularity over the last few years as one of the best time savers for those with busy schedules. It also allows you to pre-determined portion sizes so you don't overindulge. For affordable ideas take a look at these dietitian-approved weeknight dinners that are both nutritious and affordable, coming in at under $20 for four servings.

4. Tackle life admin tasks

Whether it's going through your mail, paying bills, doing your taxes, or finally returning the clothes from your online order, most of us will have some niggling life admin tasks we've been putting off that we can address on a Sunday.

5. Get cleaning

A good Sunday cleaning session will without a doubt make your coming week much easier and lower your stress levels. If you're feeling pressed for time just focus on wiping down counters, cabinets, stovetop, and all other surfaces, vacuum your floors, and take out the rubbish. If you have more time to spare do a deep clean and focus also on your bathroom. And if you're someone who despises cleaning, create better vibes by playing music or having a podcast on to keep you entertained.

Need some cleaning advice? Check out Chantel Mila's expert spring cleaning tips to freshen up your home.

6. Plan the week

Take a minute to sit down and look at what the coming week might entail for you. Go over your list and prioritise which tasks need to be done first and schedule those at the beginning of the week and the least important at the end.

7. Water your plants

If you've been neglecting your green friends throughout the week, dedicate a few minutes each Sunday to give them some water. Follow our guide on how often you should be watering your houseplants.

8. Get your work desk ready

If you're working from home any day in the coming week, give your desk a quick tidy-up. Having this space organised and clean will decrease the likelihood of you feeling stressed when you sit down to work.

9. Practice self-care

At the end of a busy week, it's important to take some time for yourself. When it comes to your mental health, self-care can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Whether self-care for you means meditating, going for a walk, pampering yourself, or sitting down to read, find something that's good for you and makes you feel nice. You deserve that.

10. Wind down early

There's nothing like hopping into bed early for a good night's sleep to reset you for the week ahead. Do yourself a favour and start your wind-down routine an hour earlier Sunday night to allow yourself ample time to relax and recharge for a productive week ahead. Create a meaningful nighttime routine, specifically one that focuses on regulating the nervous system.