As the summer holidays draw to an end, Queen of Clean Lynsey Crombie is encouraging parents to tackle seven essential household tasks to banish back-to-school mayhem and maximise those precious child-free hours.
The This Morning home expert revealed that September presents the “perfect” opportunity for a fresh start and disclosed her precise checklist, complete with clever hacks to streamline cleaning and boost efficiency.
Lynsey’s comprehensive guide to swift and simple methods for achieving a gleaming home features in her book The 15-Minute Clean, available to purchase online.
Bedroom overhaul
Once the kids have returned to their classrooms, Lynsey suggested beginning with their sleeping quarters and getting ready for the approaching winter months. She informed PA’s Sam Wylie-Harris: “Swap out summer clothes for cosy layers; clear through wardrobes and drawers, and create a clutter-free desk area to help them focus on homework. A tidy space really does make for a clearer mind.”
While sprucing up these spaces and throughout the remainder of the property, the specialist advised employing a basket to gather items that are out of place, making the task swifter and less daunting from the outset.
School bags and lunch containers
Following the summer break, numerous educational essentials will require dusting down and thorough cleaning, which can also inspire pupils with a crisp and orderly environment as they embrace the new academic year. Lynsey particularly suggested utilising white vinegar to eliminate unwanted odours from lunch containers.
Radiators
The cleaning expert suggested giving your radiators a thorough dust and vacuum before winter arrives, with a hairdryer on a cool setting proving an effortless way to tackle those tricky spots between the radiator panels. She explained: “This not only improves efficiency, but also prevents old dust from circulating around your home.”
Door frames, handles and light switches
These frequently-touched surfaces would have experienced increased use throughout the summer months, making them a breeding ground for bacteria and other unpleasant deposits. Lynsey explained: “Take five minutes with a cloth and disinfectant spray to wipe them down – it’s a quick job with big results.”
Windows and door tracks
With autumn breezes picking up, these spots are susceptible to becoming grimy, so it is simpler to begin with a fresh start by clearing away all the summer dirt that has accumulated. This can be achieved using a small brush or vacuum for loose particles, followed by a swift wipe to ensure everything operates more smoothly.
Declutter homework zones
The expert revealed: “Organise stationery, untangle cables, and give desks a proper wipe-down. A clean, clutter-free space makes a huge difference to how children settle back into their routine.”
She also suggested investing in a compact caddy to keep school materials organised and hopefully prevent stationery from gradually migrating around the house before inevitably going missing.
Seasonal Switch
The end of summer can be a challenging time for both children and parents. However, Lynsey suggests that a complete seasonal changeover at home can help ease the mental and physical transition.
She advised: “Pack away summer clutter like beach towels, garden toys and sandals… making room for coats, boots and school essentials. Not only does this make mornings easier, it also keeps hallways and storage areas tidy.”
