Here's some great news for women: Researchers now believe we may actually need more dirt and germs in our lives, since being exposed to them during childhood may help us develop immunity to asthma and allergies. As if that weren't enough, I read that famous decorator Mario Buatta called dust "a protective coating for fine furniture."

On the other hand, most people don't want an adult domicile to look like a dorm room. The key—as always—is moderation. The way to cut down on housework is to clean less stuff more often. Here's what I mean:

Pare Down
The less you own, the less you have to clean. Get rid of everything you don't love or need. Can't decide whether to ditch it or not? Put doubtful items into a box, tape it closed, and mark it "Deliver to [name of favorite charity] on [date six months in the future]." (Seasonal items should be earmarked for disposal in a year's time.) If you haven't had any reason to look inside the box when the "deliver by" date arrives, dispose of it. Do not under any circumstances take a last peek inside.

NEXT: More tips to cut cleaning time >>