WITH spring just around the corner, it’s nearly time to bid farewell to winter and welcome in those sunnier days.
And with that, many Brits will be gearing up to spring-clean their homes to let that sunlight in.
Danielle Mason has given her top cleaning tips ahead of spring[/caption]
According to a survey by Thane UK, more than 93% of British households engage in a major spring cleaning exercise at least once a year.
But, unsurprisingly, over half of Brits dread the thought of doing it.
However, that doesn’t have to be the case, as Danielle Mason, a cleaning expert with 20 years of experience, believes that the key is to start now to make your life easier.
She explains: “Why wait for spring to start your spring cleaning?
“Getting ahead now means you can refresh your space, clear out the winter clutter, and step into the new season feeling organised and energised.
“Plus, tackling it early gives you more time to enjoy the brighter days when they arrive!”
Here, in her own words, Danielle reveals her top cleaning hacks that everyone should be doing now, and the 10 grossest areas people always forget about.
Declutter First
Before diving into deep cleaning, take the time to declutter your home.
Go through each room methodically, sorting items into three categories: donate, recycle, or discard.
Be honest about what you use and need; if something hasn’t been touched in over a year, it’s likely time to let it go.
A clutter-free space makes cleaning more effective and gives your home an instant refresh.
Tackle One Room at a Time
Spring cleaning can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable tasks helps.
Instead of trying to clean everything in one day, focus on one room per week leading up to spring.
Start with high-traffic areas such as the kitchen and living room, then move on to bedrooms, bathrooms, and storage spaces.
Wash Walls and Skirting Boards
There are areas in your home that should not be missed[/caption]
Over the winter months, walls and skirting boards accumulate dust, grime, and scuff marks.
Use a damp microfibre cloth with mild soap or a mix of warm water and vinegar to gently wipe them down.
Pay extra attention to corners and areas near heating vents, which tend to collect more dirt.
Deep Clean Fabrics
Soft surfaces can trap dust, allergens, and odours.
Launder curtains, upholstery, and bedding, including often-overlooked items such as pillows and mattress protectors.
If your sofa or armchairs have removable covers, check the care labels and give them a proper wash.
For delicate fabrics, consider using a fabric refresher or vacuuming with an upholstery attachment.
Refresh Carpets and Rugs
Carpets and rugs harbour dust, pet dander, and allergens, making regular deep cleaning essential.
Start by vacuuming thoroughly, then spot-clean any stains using a gentle carpet cleaner or a bicarbonate of soda and vinegar solution.
If your carpets need extra care, consider renting a steam cleaner or hiring professionals for a deep clean treatment before spring allergies set in.
Sanitise High-Touch Areas
Don’t forget about the areas above eye level[/caption]
Germs and bacteria accumulate on frequently touched surfaces like light switches, remote controls, door handles, and cupboard handles.
Wipe these areas down with a disinfectant wipe or a spray made with diluted surgical spirit.
Don’t forget about mobile phones, keyboards, and tablets—they’re some of the germiest surfaces in the home!
Clean Out Kitchen Appliances
Your kitchen appliances work hard year-round, so give them some TLC.
Empty and wipe down the fridge, tossing out-of-date items and organising the shelves.
Descale the kettle and coffee machine with vinegar and water, degrease the oven and microwave, and don’t forget to check the dishwasher filter for trapped food particles.
Don’t Forget the Air
After months of closed windows, indoor air can become stale.
Start by changing your extractor fan filters to improve air quality and efficiency.
Dust ceiling fans and vents, as these collect a surprising amount of buildup over time.
Finally, open windows for fresh air circulation, letting in natural light and a refreshing spring breeze.
10 Grossest Areas People Forget to Clean
By Danielle Mason, who has 20 years of experience
Under and Behind the Fridge
Crumbs, dust, and spills accumulate over time, attracting pests and creating bad odours.
Shower Curtain & Liner
These collect mildew and soap scum but are often overlooked. Wash or replace them regularly to keep your bathroom fresh.
Toothbrush Holder
One of the germiest places in the bathroom, filled with bacteria and toothpaste residue. Rinse and disinfect it weekly.
Dishwasher Filter
Food particles and grease build up, leading to unpleasant smells and reduced efficiency. Remove and clean the filter every few weeks.
Washing Machine Seal
The rubber gasket traps mould, mildew, and detergent buildup. Wipe it down with white vinegar and leave the door open to air dry.
Light Switches and Remote Controls
Touched daily but rarely cleaned, making them germ hotspots. Wipe them down with disinfectant regularly.
Under the Sofa Cushions
Crumbs, dust, and even lost items hide in the cracks. Remove the cushions and vacuum thoroughly.
Kitchen Sink & Plughole
Food residue builds up, causing bad odours. Pour boiling water, bicarbonate of soda, and vinegar down the drain to freshen it.
Ceiling Fans
Dust piles up on the blades and gets redistributed into the air when turned on. Use a microfibre cloth or pillowcase to clean them easily.
Doormats
They trap dirt and bacteria from shoes but are rarely washed or vacuumed. Shake them out weekly and deep clean them every month.
Head to her Instagram pages for more cleaning information @missmasoncleaning @daniellemasonuk
