A sparkling clean home is a fresh start. It’s a feeling that’s especially appealing as we welcome a new year. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist haven, a clutter-free sanctuary, or simply a space that feels fresh and inviting, tackling cleaning and organization tasks can boost your mood and set the tone for a successful year ahead.
Home expert, best-selling author, and resident cleaning expert on ITV’s This Morning, Lynsey Crombie, shares some simple strategies to conquer those daunting cleaning projects:
Declutter Your Space
“The best way to start the new year is with a clean canvas – get rid of stuff you haven’t used over the past year and be ruthless,” advises Crombie.
She suggests going digital where possible, shredding paperwork, and tackling decluttering in manageable chunks. Enlist the help of family or friends to make it a more enjoyable experience.
“Choose one section of your wardrobe at a time, dedicating a solid 10-minute block to sorting out dresses one day, trousers the next, and so on. Once finished, get it out of the house as soon as possible – donate to charity shops, recycle, or leave a table outside for passersby to take what they need.”
Deep Clean Your Home
After taking down holiday decorations, Crombie recommends a thorough deep clean. Move furniture, wash skirting boards, clean curtains, blinds, under beds, and appliances.
“A sparkling home is one of the best ways to kick off the New Year,” encourages Crombie. “And once your big clean is done, all you really need to do is just keep on top of it.”
Build Your Cleaning Caddy Arsenal
Never run out of cleaning supplies! Create cleaning caddies, placing one downstairs and one upstairs, stocked with multipurpose products, cleaning cloths, and durable sponges. Regularly check stock levels to ensure you’re always prepared.
Create a Cleaning Plan
Develop a cleaning schedule and delegate tasks to everyone in the household. Even younger children can contribute by putting clothes in the laundry basket or making their beds.
Post the schedule in a visible location, keeping it simple and achievable. For example:
• Monday: Mop the floors
• Tuesday: Deep clean the toilets
• Wednesday: Tackle windows and mirrors
• Throwaway Thursdays: Get rid of rubbish
• Friday: Sort the fridge
• Saturday: Clean the shower or stairs
• Sunday: Change the sheets
Streamline Your Laundry Routine
If you have a larger family, Crombie suggests doing a load of laundry every day. Ensure everyone puts dirty clothes in the laundry basket and utilize color catchers to save on additional loads.
Work Smarter, Not Harder
Maximize cleaning products by reading labels carefully. Most products require a 10-minute dwell time before rinsing. Use this time wisely by tackling other tasks, such as emptying the dishwasher or washing dishes.
Clean Your Cleaning Tools
“Make sure you regularly clean your vacuum cleaner, dishwasher, and washing machine. Vacuum filters can become clogged, leading to reduced suction. Clean dishwashers and washing machines after every 30 uses. A dirty dishwasher won’t effectively clean your dishes, ” notes Crombie.
Start Cleaning From the Top Down
When cleaning any room, always begin at the highest point, tackling cobwebs, dusting shelves and cabinets, and cleaning mirrors and windows. Dust falls downwards, so vacuuming and cleaning skirting boards should be the last tasks.
Implement a No-Shoes Rule
Reduce cleaning time by keeping dirt outside. Place heavy-duty door mats at entrances and shoe racks or baskets for shoes. Encourage everyone to knock mud outside, and designate a dog station with towels for wiping paws.
Keep a Shower Squeegee Handy
Save yourself hours of scrubbing hard water stains by keeping a squeegee in the shower. After each use, quickly remove excess water and soap scum. If you don’t have a squeegee, a thick microfiber cloth works too. Hang it outside to dry.
Don’t Aim for Perfection
“Don’t put pressure on yourself to do everything and keep up with others… do what you can and remember not every home is a show home,” advises Crombie.
Ready to embrace a fresh start? Start decluttering, deep cleaning, and implementing these tips to create a cleaner, happier, and more organized home.
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