Housekeeping checklist

KEEPING ON TOP OF SEASONAL JOBS MAKES YOUR HOME RUN MORE SMOOTHLY AND MEANS LESS WORK IN THE LONG RUN. WE ASKED A PROFESSIONAL HOUSEKEEPER FOR HER ESSENTIAL TO-DO LIST

- FEATURE CLAIRE SWEETING PHOTOGRAPH FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

Everyday chores like vacuuming and washing up often feel like they take over our lives, especially in small homes where a little clutter can look like a lot of mess. So how can you keep on top of bigger household jobs? The answer is a seasonal checklist, says Ann Russell, author of How to Clean Everything.

SPRING

Lighter days and gentle breezes are the perfect conditions for giving your home a spring clean.

• Dust hard-to-reach areas, such as the tops of doors, cobwebbed corners and behind furniture

• Clean windows and polish mirrors

• Clean curtains with a vacuum attachment or wash them, following instructions on the label

• Prepare your lawnmower and any necessary garden tools

• Give the patio a good scrub; repair and repaint fences