Loving our homes by managing the endless cycle of home maintenance
3 minute read
A well-maintained home isn’t just a pleasure to live in—it’s also a smart way to save time and money and reduce your environmental impact.
APDO member Kate Galbally reveals ways to prevent your home from becoming overwhelming by adopting a routine of small, manageable tasks that are spread out over time. Think of it as showing your space a little love, one task at a time, so that you can enjoy it fully without the stress of constant upkeep.
Daily/Weekly
Cleaning & Tidying - Washing dishes, wiping down counters, dealing with rubbish and recycling, and vacuuming are keystone habits for a home that functions smoothly.
Laundry – Whether you do laundry daily or less frequently, establishing a regular habit can prevent it from becoming a seemingly unmanageable mountain. The frequency for washing clothing will depend on your household and schedule, but it can be helpful to have a weekly routine of washing bedding and towels to keep them fresh and minimise the spread of germs.
Decluttering – Tackling small, manageable areas with a ‘little and often’ approach can keep things from piling up. This can be particularly helpful in high-traffic areas where surface-clutter can quickly gather i.e. hallways, kitchens and living rooms.
Monthly
Taking care of appliances with some routine maintenance can help them last longer and minimise the chance of costly repairs.
Washing machine – Using readily available household items keeps costs down and is a more natural approach than buying expensive chemical-based cleaners. A combination of white vinegar, soda crystals and a hot cycle will clean and deodorise your machine. An old toothbrush is good for scrubbing the detergent drawer. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for step-by-step guidance.
Dishwasher – Remove the spray arms and the filter and give them all a quick scrub in a bowl of hot soapy water. Placing a dishwasher-safe container with white vinegar on the top rack, then running a hot cycle, can break down grease and soap scum. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for step-by-step guidance.
Plugholes – Refresh plugholes in sinks, showers and baths to reduce the likelihood of blockages and bad odours. Environmentally friendly options include drain sticks, vinegar and baking soda, or branded cleaners that are free from corrosive and caustic ingredients.
Smoke alarms & carbon monoxide detectors – Testing these is a simple task that can make a big difference in your safety. Replace batteries, if required. I find you get what you pay for with batteries, so it really is worth investing in good quality ones.
Have a clearout – Look at the storage spaces in your home and gather up items to donate, sell or recycle. If time is limited, focus on one storage area each month i.e. a wardrobe, a cupboard under the stairs, the attic, basement or garage.
Quarterly
Ovens & fridges – Giving these a thorough clean inside and out will maintain hygiene, help them operate efficiently and prolong their lifespan.
Filters & vents – Clean filters and vents around the home i.e. cooker-hood filter, tumble dryer and washing machine filters, dehumidifier filters, vacuum cleaner filters, air vents.
Windows – Giving the interior glass a clean is also an opportunity to check the seals to prevent drafts and leaks. If the latches are a bit sticky, a quick spray with some silicone-free lubricant should get them moving freely again.
Seasonal
Spring – Declutter the shed of items that are no longer required
Summer – Clean garden furniture
Autumn – Clear gutters
Winter – Insulate external taps
Annual
Boiler - Ensure your boiler is serviced annually to keep it running efficiently. Some heating contractors will send you automatic reminders free of charge. Alternatively, put a note in your diary to contact your engineer a few weeks before the service is due. This can also be a good prompt to bleed your radiators.
Fireplace and chimney – Get these inspected and cleaned if necessary.
