TAKE TIME OUT ON THESE TASKS (FOR NOW)

Don’t let anyone say you need to deep clean once a week. Instead, use our guide for these jobs

ONCE A YEAR

Clear out the medicine cabinet. Check expiry dates. Out-of-date medications can be harmful and no one should be wearing sunscreen from 2006, as chemicals break down over time.

Call in a pro for curtains and rugs. It’s worth the extra dosh – the experts will do it better. Carpet cleaning is necessary to rid your home of deepseated germs ordinary vacuuming doesn’t remove.

ONCE A SEASON

Wipe blinds of all kinds, including wood and metal Venetians or vinyl rollers. Dust on blinds makes allergies worse. Soak a clean sock in rubbing alcohol for aluminium or vinyl; on wood, use hot water and lemon oil.

Machine-wash mattress protectors and pillows. It’ll remove the build-up of dead skin. If the pillows are feather, make sure there are no rips and seams are secure.

ONCE A MONTH

Sanitise remote controls (and keyboards and mice). Every member of your family touches these, so you’ll stay healthier if you clean with a disinfectant wipe.

Use a toothbrush to scrub off food particles.

Vacuum your sofa. Do the cushions and the base to pick up crumbs, hair and pet hair. Removing them will help extend the life of your sofa as they can damage fibres.