How often should you..?
Guide reveals what you should clean and when
IF YOU clean your toilet once a week or wash out that grimy toothbrush mug every month, we’ve got bad news.
The Good Housekeeping Institute have devised the ultimate guide to how often you should do your chores, from wiping lightbulbs to scrubbing the shower.
There are tasks that should be done once a week, including vacuuming, dusting surfaces, putting towels in the wash and cleaning the bathroom.
Other jobs need done every day to prevent the spread of germs, while others can be put off to just once a month and some annually.
DAILY
■ Make beds ■ Wipe down shower ■ Clean toilet bowl ■ Wipe kitchen surfaces ■ Wipe hob after use ■ Sweep kitchen floor ■ Wash up ■ Clear away clothing and put dirty clothing in the laundry basket
WEEKLY
Clean bed linen and towels Do the laundry Dust household surfaces Vacuum all carpets and floors Mop any hard floors Give bathrooms a thorough clean Clean mirrors and toothbrush mugs Clean inside the microwave Wipe down kitchen appliances
MONTHLY
Wash all the windows Vacuum hard-to-reach areas Clean blinds and/or vacuum curtains Clean dishwasher, washing machine & vacuum cleaner Wash doormats Throw away any out-of-date food, wipe cupboards
3-6 MONTHS
Vacuum mattress Wash or dry-clean bedspreads, pillows and duvets Wipe down the inside of the fridge Clean out the freezer Clean the oven thoroughly Wipe down internal paintwork
Have a mini garage blitz
YEARLY
■ Wipe window frames ■ Wipe lightbulbs ■ Deep clean upholstered furniture and carpets ■ Empty out gutters ■ Clean fireplace and chimney ■ Have the chimney swept