After what felt like a never-ending summer, I must admit that the quick switch to condensation season took me by surprise. Thankfully, I have a window vacuum that works hard to tackle water droplets covering my windows. But if you don't have one, let me introduce you to the Amazon Basics Window Vacuum (was £31.45, now £26.72 at Amazon).

I’ve already raved about using a window vacuum to clear the morning condensation in my home, and I am the very proud owner of the Kärcher WV 6 Plus Cordless Window Vac (was £109.99, now £79.99 at Amazon). And while it’s genuinely one of the best gadgets I own and better than any other model I’ve tested so far, I can’t deny that the price difference makes me wish I'd known about the Amazon model earlier.

Admittedly, I haven’t tested the Amazon Basics Window Vacuum myself, but with over 2,000 reviews and an average star rating of 4.1 out of 5, customers seem to be impressed. And it’s a great budget buy if you can’t quite stretch to a premium model like mine - or just want to try one out before potentially upgrading.

During autumn and winter, when the days are wetter and colder, it’s even more important to wipe condensation off your windows. If you don't, damp and mould can build up around your windows and seals, and it can spread quickly if you don't tackle it.

To keep a home healthy and moisture-free, actively removing this window condensation as soon as you wake up is the best course of action. And as Ideal Home’s Cleaning Editor, I’ve tested various condensation-removal methods over the years, but none have been as quick or as effective as a window vacuum.

As I said, I haven’t tested the Amazon Basics Window Vacuum yet (I hope to soon), but it offers all of the features a good window vacuum should have. This includes a cordless design with a rechargeable battery, a 280 mm-wide suction nozzle to glide carefully across window panes, and a water tank to capture moisture. All for just £30.

And while other budget models like the Beldray Cordless Handheld Window Vacuum Cleaner (£28 at Argos) exist and impressed me during testing, the Amazon Basics Window Vacuum also includes a separate spray bottle with a cleaning pad that these affordable options typically don’t have - but my more expensive Kärcher model does have.

It might not seem like much, but this extra spray bottle with a cleaning pad is a lifesaver for year-round window cleaning, since it lets you make the most of a window vacuum’s other unexpected uses. Personally, I use the extra tool to clean my mirrors and shower screen, and to give my windows a quick zhuzh during the dustier summer months.

So, having that included in the £30 price tag is a big win in my eyes, and customers seem to love it, too. One happy window vacuum owner raved, ‘This window vac has been excellent. It quickly sucks up water off the windows and thus prevents more water from evaporating into the air, causing more problems.’

‘It isn't too noisy, the battery lasts a long time, and I can do six large windows upstairs, three patio doors, a huge window in my sun lounge, a big kitchen window, lounge window, plus two doors with still charge left over,’ they added.

However, it’s worth noting that it’s not perfect - nor should you expect it to for this price point. Another customer wrote, ‘There may be some tiny droplets of water left around the edges of the windows, but they can be quickly and easily wiped away with a cloth or paper towel. The machine can feel a bit heavy if you have strength issues in your wrists and arms though.’

So, just bear that in mind if you’re weighing up your next window vacuum purchase. Personally, I’d always stretch for a Kärcher model because of the build quality, effectiveness, and long run time, but if I didn’t already own one, and only had a small budget, I’d snap up this Amazon alternative in a heartbeat.

Alternatives to shop

I love my window vacuum, but I definitely could have saved myself some pennies if I'd known about this one a few years ago!

I've tested a few Kärcher cleaning appliances over the years, so when the SC 2 Deluxe landed on my doorstep, I had high hopes. As a mum of three, I was drawn to the promise of cleaning everything from my floors to my oven hob and shower screen using nothing but water.

So, I put it to the test around my family home to see how it measures up against the best steam cleaners and mops. A couple of niggles aside, it lived up to expectations, and it really impressed me.

In a nutshell

The Kärcher SC 2 Deluxe is a compact steam cleaner that comes with a useful range of attachments, so it can tackle much more than just your floors. I used it to clean my hob, oven door, shower screen and the awkward areas around taps.

Interestingly, it wasn't my floors where I saw the most impressive results, as it was the smaller attachments that really won me over. Using the small round brush around my hob rings and the base of my taps, I was genuinely shocked at how much hidden dirt it blasted away from spots I didn't even know were there. It even came to the rescue when nail varnish ended up on my carpet, leaving the mark barely visible.

It's well built, and the wheels and carry handle make it easy to move from room to room. The illuminated LED ring is a simple touch, but it gives it a more modern feel than many of the steam cleaners I've used before. It's not without its niggles, though. It takes around six minutes to heat up, so it's not something I'd reach for to deal with a spill in a hurry. I also found it hard to tell how much water was left, as the tank is hidden inside the unit.

Overall, the SC 2 Deluxe really impressed me. It's incredibly easy to use and delivered a genuinely thorough clean across my whole home, with results that surprised me more than once. Once you factor in the warm-up time, it's a brilliant, harsh-chemical-free steam cleaner, and with little ones around, it's earned a spot in my cleaning cupboard.

How I tested

Specifications

• Dimensions: 30.4 x 23.1 x 28.7 centimetres
• Cable length: 4m
• Steam settings: 3
• Heat up time: 6.5 minutes
• Water tank capacity: 1 litre
• Cleaning power: 1500 watts
• Weight: 2.68 kg
• Accessories: 2.2m Steam hose with trigger gun, accessories bag, crevice brush, detail nozzle, floor cleaning cloth, floor nozzle, hand nozzle, microfibre cover for hand nozzle, small round brush

Unboxing, assembly, and first impressions

Arriving in the brand's unmistakably bold yellow packaging, the Kärcher SC 2 Deluxe Steam Cleaner was light enough for me to carry myself. Inside, everything was neatly packed, with some components wrapped individually in plastic packaging labelled '50% recyclable'.

The box also includes a generous selection of accessories. Alongside the main unit, it comes with a steam hose with a trigger gun, crevice brush, detail nozzle, floor cleaning cloth, floor nozzle, hand nozzle, microfibre cover for the hand nozzle, and a small round brush. There was also an accessories bag, which I thought was a handy touch, especially since I'm someone who easily misplaces things.

Assembling it couldn't be simpler - all you need to do is fit the desired accessory onto the steam gun. I started with the floor nozzle, which connects to the gun via two extension pipes. They slotted together with a satisfying click, and the microfibre cloth attaches neatly to the mop head with Velcro.

Once everything was ready, my first impression was that the Kärcher SC 2 Deluxe looks and feels well built. The main unit is sturdy and solid, with the brand's distinctive white-and-black finish.

The standout design feature is the illuminated LED ring on top of the unit. It changes colour to show when the steamer is heating up and when it's ready to use. It's a simple touch, but it gives the SC 2 Deluxe a more modern, premium feel and sets it apart from basic steam cleaners. It's also more practical than it sounds, as you can see at a glance whether it's ready from across the room.

It's also compact, so it won't take up much room when stored away. Although it's a corded model, the 4m cable length means you can move around freely without constantly switching sockets. I also like the fact that it has wheels underneath, which makes it easy to slide along with you as you clean.

Before switching it on, I needed to fill the water tank, and that's when I noticed the Kärcher SC 2 Deluxe works differently from other steam cleaners I've used. The tank isn't a separate, see-through container; instead, it's concealed inside the main unit, and you fill it through a top opening sealed with a screw-on safety cap.

My first thought was that this might make it tricky to judge how much water I was pouring in, and harder to tell when it was running low mid-clean. If I'm nitpicking, I also would have appreciated a funnel in the box, since the opening is fairly small. It wasn't a big issue though, and I just used a jug from my kitchen, which made filling it straightforward enough.

On a positive note, water is all you need. With little ones in the house, I always favour harsh-chemical-free options where possible, as it gives me peace of mind that I'm not leaving nasty residue on floors or surfaces that they're constantly touching.

Using the Karcher SC 2 Deluxe

Getting started was simple. There's no on / off switch; as soon as you plug the Kärcher SC 2 Deluxe into the mains, the LED ring on the unit lights up red to indicate it's heating up.

While it warmed up, I could hear it quietly working away in the background. The sound never got any louder, so it wasn't distracting, and I could carry on with other jobs while I waited.

Kärcher states a heat-up time of 6.5 minutes. I timed it myself, and it was about right: after around six minutes, the ring turned green to show it was ready. It did feel on the longer side compared with other steam cleaners I've used (for reference, the Kärcher SC 1 Multi Up & Extra was ready in around 30 seconds). If you're after something to clear up a quick spill, it's not a 'grab-and-go' sort of steam cleaner.

Once it was ready, the controls were easy to get the hang of. There are three settings which sit on top of the handle: maximum steam, reduced steam and no steam. Having the switch right under your thumb makes it easy to adjust as you go.

To clean floors

For its first use, I decided to just give my laminated kitchen floors a once-over. I have three children, and I feel like I'm constantly mopping up after them, so I usually reach for my Shark Steam & Scrub Automatic, although it works differently because it's purely a floor mop and uses rotating mop pads to clean surfaces.

I experimented with the different steam settings, but for my floors I found I needed the max setting to get the best results. To release the steam, you have to keep your hand on the trigger continuously, so worth knowing if you're planning to clean several rooms in one go.

I was really impressed with how effortlessly the floor nozzle glided across the floor. It also felt smooth and lightweight to hold. I'll admit, I expected more steam, since it looked quite subtle. But it didn't take long to see it was working, as my floors were visibly wet after each pass.

I did have to apply more pressure to really stubborn marks, and it took a few passes before they lifted. But I was impressed with how clean my floors looked afterwards, and they were dry enough to walk on within a couple of minutes, too.

Cleaning the oven

After using it on my floors, I decided to tackle one of the jobs I hate most: cleaning my oven. I started with the hob rings, using the small round brush attachment, and it's safe to say it was pretty shocking to see how much hidden dirt and grime it blasted away from the edges and crevices I'd clearly been missing with my usual wipe-downs.

I then went over the whole surface with the hand nozzle and microfibre cover, which lifted the loosened grime and left the hob looking noticeably cleaner and fresher. And the colour of the cloth afterwards told me everything I needed to know!

I also used the hand nozzle to clean the inside of my oven door, which I'll admit was embarrassingly dirty. My expectations weren't high, but after just a couple of passes I could see the grime starting to lift.

Granted, I needed to apply pressure and scrub the tougher spots, and it didn't shift all the baked-on dirt. Still, considering its state and that I used nothing but steam, I was really impressed with the results.

Cleaning a carpet spill

I'd normally reach for my Bissell SpotClean HydroSteam spot cleaner when tackling carpet spills, and it's worth noting that the Kärcher SC 2 Deluxe is mainly designed for hard surfaces. But when I had a huge mishap and spilt a bottle of nail varnish on my living room carpet during the testing period, I decided to try my luck with it.

Using the round brush attachment, I was pleasantly surprised to see that after a few passes with the steam, the stain had visibly lifted. It didn't remove every trace of it (nor was I expecting it to), but it made a massive difference to a stain I assumed I'd be stuck with for good.

I would still recommend a dedicated spot cleaner for a spill like this, but if you want to try the SC 2, test it on an inconspicuous area first.

Cleaning the bathroom

I swapped to the small round brush to tackle my sink and the base of my taps. No matter how often I clean, within five minutes the basins seem to be covered in toothpaste marks and general grime from the kids.

After a couple of bursts of steam, the toothpaste melted away. The area under the taps is such an awkward area to reach with a cloth, but the brush got right into the gaps with ease.

Not sure if I'm alone here, but there's something quite satisfying about watching all the limescale you've been missing lift away. My taps and sink area looked noticeably cleaner and shinier afterwards, so this was one of the areas where it impressed me the most.

I also put the Kärcher SC 2 Deluxe Steam Cleaner to work on my glass shower screen, using the hand nozzle with the microfibre cover. It did a good job of lifting the random spots of water, and the glass looked noticeably cleaner afterwards.

That said, once it dried, faint water streaks remained on the glass. It's still a handy option for wiping down your shower doors, especially if you're using it to clean other bathroom surfaces.

Cleaning, storage and maintenance

Looking after the Kärcher SC 2 Deluxe is fairly straightforward. Once I'd finished cleaning, I unplugged it and let it cool down completely before emptying any leftover water. Since the tank isn't removable, you have to lift the whole unit to empty it, which is a bit inconvenient.

The floor cloth and the microfibre cover are both machine washable, which is just as well considering the colour of them after each cleaning session. I did find the brushes and nozzles were in need of a clean after each use, particularly after I'd tackled a really tough area. But I found soapy water did the trick.

As with any steam cleaner, limescale can build up over time. Kärcher recommends regularly descaling the boiler with a descaling solution.

For storage, I found the included mesh accessories bag really handy. There's also a built-in hook to loop the cable around at the back of the unit, and the unit is compact enough that it doesn't take up much cupboard space.

How does it rate online?

On the brand's website, the Kärcher SC 2 Deluxe has an impressive 4.9 star rating from 11 customer reviews. However, it is worth noting that these reviews were incentivised, and reviewers received the product for free in exchange for their feedback. Even so, the comments were consistently positive, praising its cleaning performance and versatility, and a couple of users said they'd used it almost everywhere around their home.

On Amazon, 33 customers scored it an average of 4.4 stars, with the feedback of a similar nature. A couple of customers referenced the water tank as being on the smaller side, while another found the six-minute warm up time a little long, which echoes my own experience.

How does it compare to similar models?

The Kärcher SC 2 Deluxe is part of the brand's popular lineup of steam cleaners. The most notable differences from the standard SC 2 are in the design. Alongside the illuminated LED ring, the Deluxe weighs 2.6 kg and is 20% lighter than standard models, and the cable and hose can be wrapped around the handle for neater storage.

The most obvious comparison for me is the Kärcher SC 1 Multi & Up Extra, which I've previously tested. It is another versatile steam cleaner that comes with a range of different attachments to tackle different surfaces. However, the SC1 has a much quicker heat-up time and is ready in just 30 seconds, but the water tank is much smaller, making it better suited to smaller clean-ups rather than large-scale jobs, like the SC 2 Deluxe.

It's worth comparing to Ideal Home's top-rated steam mop, the VAX Steam Fresh Total Home. It's an upright mop, but it also comes with a removable handheld unit and 14 different accessories (including a carpet glider, which could have been useful for my nail varnish spill). The downsides are that its water tank is much smaller, and it's heavier overall.

Verdict: Should you buy the Karcher SC 2 Deluxe?

After using the Kärcher SC 2 Deluxe around my home, I'd say it's a great choice for anyone who wants a thorough, harsh-chemical-free clean. The water tank means you won't need to stop and refill often. I cleaned several rooms on a single tank, and the range of attachments makes it easy to switch between cleaning the floors and different surfaces around the home. It really shines on smaller, fiddly jobs, so it's ideal if you want more than just a floor cleaner.

I think it's particularly well-suited to busy family homes. The child lock on the steam gun gave me peace of mind with three little ones around, and because it uses only tap water, I didn't need to worry about harsh chemical residue on floors or surfaces they're always touching. That makes it a great option for households with pets, too.

It's also a good choice if you find bulkier appliances a struggle. It's lightweight and compact, and the wheels make it easy to pull along behind you as you clean, so it may suit anyone with back or mobility issues.

The main drawback is the six-minute heat-up time, so if speed is a priority, there are models that heat up much faster. It isn't the cheapest steam cleaner, but if you are looking to invest in a versatile all-rounder, the impressive results make it feel like money well spent.

If you’re like me, your under-the-sink cupboard is probably overflowing with bottles, brushes, sponges and cloths. That’s one reason Joseph Joseph’s new CleanTech Tool Set with Caddy Organiser (£60 at Amazon) stood out to me. But it’s not the only reason.

As I test the best cleaning products as my day job, I had the pleasure of testing out Joseph Joseph’s debut CleanTech set last year. Most of the bigger tools have since become a huge part of my personal cleaning routine, and the additional pole organiser has been great for storing them out of the way in my small home. However, it hasn’t quite tackled the clutter of cleaning bottles and smaller essentials under my sink.

That's where Joseph Joseph’s new caddy shines. It includes some of my favourite tools, and the grab-and-go design holds the tools and extra cleaning bottles you’ll need for an effective whole-home clean. Then you can store it inside a cupboard door, making the most of every precious inch of available storage.

The Joseph Joseph CleanTech Caddy actually solves a few of the problems I face in my home, and not just my struggle to be like the people with consistently tidy under-the-sink cupboards. It also solves the problem I face when I want to clean upstairs, but have inevitably left the cleaning tools and products I need downstairs. I know I'm not alone in that struggle, either.

And while you can buy a cheap cleaning caddy (like this £3 caddy from Dunelm) to cut down on running up and down the stairs, these caddies are often bulky and take up a lot of cupboard space when not in use. Something I personally don’t have a lot of.

However, the CleanTech Caddy attaches to the inside of the cupboard with the included mounting bracket and screws, and its super-slim design means you should still be able to close the cupboard door even when the inside is full.

Of course, it’s also worth decluttering your cleaning products every now and then, just to make sure you’re not holding onto out-of-date chemicals (guilty), empty bottles (very guilty), and cloths that have seen better days (very, very guilty).

But the CleanTech Caddy isn’t just a caddy. It also includes three tools: the CleanTech Dual-sided Surface Scrubber, CleanTech 2-in-1 Glass Cleaning Tool, and CleanTech Telescopic Extension Pole.

This is a streamlined setup compared to the original set that I have, but as the scrubber and the squeegee-like tool are some of my most-used tools, it makes sense.

They’re ideal for cleaning bathrooms, kitchens, and windows, and choosing fewer tools gives you extra caddy space for your preferred cleaning bottles. Alternatively, you could top up the set with tools you know you’ll definitely use, since everything in the CleanTech range can be bought separately.

So, you could build your own bespoke cleaning caddy, and these are some of the favourite tools I’ve tried (and loved).

So, will you be snapping up this caddy? I already have the tools, but thankfully there's the option to buy the caddy on its own for just £29, so I'll be doing just that!

Bedrooms are one of the rooms that seem to attract a lot of dust, and keeping on top of it can feel like a never-ending battle. But there are plenty of dust magnets in a bedroom that can easily get overlooked - and some of them might be hiding in plain sight.

So, where exactly are these sneaky dust collectors lurking? 'The obvious dust collectors are bedding, carpets, curtains, cushions and upholstered headboards,' explains Klaudia Skarbek, professional cleaner at Wecasa. 'Some of the biggest offenders are the things people rarely think to clean.'

The dust hiding in your bedroom isn't just dirt - it can contain dead skin cells, hair, fabric fibres, pollen and particles associated with dust mites (pretty grim, huh?!). And as we spend hours in our bedroom sleeping, keeping dust levels down can create a cleaner, more comfortable sleeping environment.

The good news? You don't need to spend hours scrubbing your bedroom from top to bottom to get rid of dust. I spoke to cleaning experts to find out which bedroom items are the biggest culprits, and how to clean them properly to keep dust at bay.

1. Lampshades

Lampshades are one of the most commonly missed bedroom spots to clean, but they're surprisingly good dust magnets, especially fabric ones. 'Fabric lampshades are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning but can be secret dust magnets if not cleaned regularly,' says Heather Nixon, sustainability manager at Bio-D.

Giving your lampshades a dust every one to two weeks can help stop dirt from building up. Heather recommends using a dry microfibre cloth or your vacuum's upholstery attachment on a low setting. 'Work gently from the top of the shade down so that you’re removing build-up rather than simply moving it around,' she says.

This top-to-bottom approach is a good rule to follow throughout your bedroom clean, too. 'My golden rule is dust from top to bottom and vacuum last,' says Klaudia. 'Otherwise, you’re simply knocking dust onto surfaces you’ve already cleaned.'

2. Curtains

Curtains are another obvious but easily overlooked dust magnet in a bedroom.

'Curtains are often forgotten when it comes to maintaining a clean home, but when left sitting undisturbed for long periods of time, they can accumulate dust, pet hair and everyday dirt,' says Heather.

It might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you're thinking about the best way to clean curtains, but Heather suggests using your vacuum's upholstery attachment to get rid of dust. 'Pay particular attention to the folds and top edge that could be secretly hiding dust,' she adds.

And if you need to give your curtains a deeper clean, some styles can be machine washed, but it's worth checking the care label first.

3. Mattresses

Because your mattress is covered by bedding most of the time, it's easy to neglect it. But keeping your mattress clean will help prevent dust (not to mention other dirt and debris) from building up.

'Over time, dust, skin cells and other everyday debris can collect across the surface and particularly around the seams and piping,' explains Heather.

Mattresses are another area where your vacuum cleaner can be put to use. Heather suggests running the upholstery attachment over the mattress when you change to your bedding. 'Pay extra attention to seams, edges and crevices where dust can gather,' she advises.

And if you haven't already, Heather recommends investing in a mattress and pillow protector. 'They create a washable layer and protect from any build-up,' she adds.

4. Under the bed

It might be out of sight, but the space under the bed can be one of the biggest dust hotspots in a bedroom - particularly if it's become a dumping ground for shoes, storage boxes and all the random items you don't quite know where to put.

'Under the bed is often an area of the bedroom where miscellaneous items get thrown and forgotten about but create even more surfaces for dust, hair and fibres to settle on,' says Heather.

Rather than just running the vacuum around whatever's underneath, Heather recommends taking everything out so you can vacuum or sweep the whole area properly. Heather recommends paying particular attention to the skirting boards and corners too, and wiping down any storage boxes before you put them back.

'To reduce the amount of settled dust, I’d consider closed box storage rather than open baskets,' adds Heather.

5. Upholstered headboards

And finally, if you have an upholstered headboard, you might be surprised at the amount of dust it could be collecting. 'An upholstered headboard can act like a dust trap,' says Klaudia. 'Its fabric, padding and seams can hold onto dust, skin cells and fibres, particularly around the edges.'

Thankfully, you don't need to dismantle your bed to give the headboard a good clean. Use your vacuum cleaner upholstery or brush attachment, and work slowly over the fabric, paying particular attention to seams and edges, where dust can gather.

And if you're aiming for a completely dust-free bedroom, Klaudia says it's worth remembering you don't need to eliminate every last speck.

'The aim isn’t to make your bedroom completely dust-free because it’s unrealistic,' she says. 'It’s about stopping dust from building up and regularly cleaning the surfaces and fabrics that collect the most of it.'

Shop dust-free bedroom essentials

You might not be able to completely stop dust magnets in a bedroom, but adding these often overlooked spots to your cleaning routine might mean you won't have to tackle quite as much dust next time.

Most of us have skirting boards in our homes. While these decorative additions protect walls, cover gaps around flooring, prevent draughts, and generally finish a room, they’re a nightmare to clean. And when they have a curved, ridged or beaded profile, they’re a magnet for dust.

That’s why cleaning my skirting boards is one of the cleaning tasks I hate the most - especially in my higgledy-piggledy 1980s house, where each room has a different skirting board design. Try as I might with a regular duster, there are just too many nooks and crannies for the dust to get caught. It also seems to just fling the dust back into the room, making it impossible to get rid of the dust completely.

But in an effort to properly remove the dust from my skirting boards and streamline my cleaning schedule, I decided to go on the hunt for regular duster alternatives that would leave them dust-free once and for all - and I definitely found it. Two, in fact.

The test products

Testing the vacuum dusting tool

Although it’s my job to test the best cleaning products and tools, I try to keep my own cleaning caddy as streamlined as possible. After all, it's easy to get sucked in by new, exciting products when you already have something that does the job at home.

This is true of the best vacuum cleaners, which often come with dusting tool attachments that can be used in handheld form. These are designed specifically for smaller dusting tasks, and it just so happens that the vacuum I use at home - the Shark PowerDetect Speed Clean and Empty Pet Pro Cordless Vacuum - comes with one of these. So, I decided to test this first.

I popped Shark’s ‘20cm duster crevice tool’ onto the handheld portion of the vacuum and used it on the skirting board in my living room first, which is a simple curved design. I could tell that the soft bristles would protect the wood from any scuffs or scratches, and I hoped that the suction power from the vacuum would suck up the dust that settles on them.

Visually, they definitely looked less dusty, and the tool was incredibly quick and easy to use - especially as the longer tool meant that I didn’t have to bend down too far. But when I tried to repeat the same success on the skirting boards in my bedroom (which have a much more detailed, intricate design), the results weren’t as impressive.

Sure, I did appreciate that this was a very faff-free option. I didn’t vacuum enough dust to have to empty the dust bin, and I could move from room to room without interruption. However, it was difficult to get the bristles into the deeper crevices and gaps, and I could still see a lot of dust settled in these ridges when I had finished.

So, while I’d definitely grab my vacuum and its dusting tool for a quick once-over on skirting boards with simple designs, I was confident that I could still find better.

Testing the Flash Dust Magnet

Old-school cleaning products definitely still have their place in everyday cleaning routines, and I’ve been cleaning with a feather duster ever since my nan introduced me to them.

The Flash Dust Magnet is a modern take on this old-school tool, and I’ve heard great things about it. So, I decided to order a starter kit and try dusting my skirting boards with it. And I must admit that I was very impressed.

I quickly realised why Flash called it a Dust Magnet: it really did attract dust like a magnet, and the state of the fibres afterwards proved my skirting boards were dirtier than they looked to the naked eye.

With so many individual fibres, the Dust Magnet also reached all the different skirting board designs in my home, getting into every nook and cranny to pick up dust. Plus, I felt confident that I was removing the dust from my house entirely when I threw the dusting head away. This is ideal for maintaining a dust-free home year-round.

But while I can’t complain about the Flash Dust Magnet's dusting power, having to throw each head in the bin after use (and sometimes after each room if they were particularly dusty) is a major niggle for me. It’s very wasteful - and expensive - and from what I can see online, there’s no way to recycle them.

In an age where we’re becoming more eco-conscious, this seems like a massive oversight and something I’m not sure I’d want to continue to do - even if its ability to dust my skirting boards is hard to beat. So, let’s hope that Flash finds a way for us to recycle them in the future.

Testing the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster

Last on my testing lineup was the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster, which I’m already very familiar with, as it also won the shutter-cleaning test I ran last year. It’s also a huge fan favourite across the Ideal Home team, with many of us using this clever cleaning tool regularly.

This affordable product is based on the idea that damp dusting is always better than dry dusting, as moisture helps the dust cling to the tool, making it easier to dispose of. When you dust with something dry (like a regular microfibre duster), it tends to wipe dust around and keep it in the home.

As I knew it works well on flat surfaces, I went into this testing process with high hopes… and I wasn’t disappointed. With one wipe, the moist cleaning sponge picked up all the visible dust on my skirting boards, and the ribbed design let me move it around and press it into the intricate ridges of my fancier skirting.

In fact, the Damp Duster was always absolutely filthy after each swipe, which shows that hidden dust can linger even when you can’t see it.

This method was slightly more time-consuming, though, as I had to make my way to a sink to rinse the Damp Duster every few minutes. While slightly irritating, it was also very satisfying as I could quite literally watch the dust drain down the plughole. So, this is a sacrifice I’d make for dust-free skirting boards.

The final verdict

What this test showed me is that 1) I need to dust my skirting boards more often, 2) there’s always more dust than it seems, and 3) sometimes two products can offer similar results while still having a few negative quirks.

And while I wouldn’t be against using my vacuum’s dusting tool to clean my skirting boards quickly (especially if I didn't fancy bending down all the time), it’s definitely not my top choice for a deeper, more detailed dust.

The Flash Dust Magnet and the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster were by far the better dusters, especially on skirting boards of different shapes, sizes and designs.

In terms of cleaning power, they both offer the ability to capture and remove the dust - either by throwing it in the bin or flushing it down the sink - which is a great way to ensure you’re not simply wiping the dust around or forcing it into the air to float back down later. During testing, I found they produced very similar visible results, too.

They both have their downsides, though. The Flash Dust Magnet is wasteful and expensive to buy upfront and to replace the dust heads, and the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster takes a bit longer to use because you have to go to and from the sink every few minutes.

Personally, though, the Scrub Daddy Damp Duster is my winner as I always prefer the eco-friendly option - and at just £3 I think it’s a bargain cleaning tool that gets the job done well time and time again.

Do you have any skirting board dusting hacks you swear by?

When was the last time you dusted the back of your picture frames? If it wasn’t recently, I have some bad news to break - the backs of your frames are, in fact, the perfect hiding spot for spiders.

Most people will agree that they want to get rid of spiders from their homes, whether that’s via spider scent deterrents or removing the things that attract spiders in the first place. While these creepy crawlies won’t cause any harm in the UK, they’re not exactly the most welcome house guest.

Spiders like dark, narrow places where they can hide, making the backs of your photo frames a prime place to lurk. So I asked experts what we can do to stop this from happening.

Why do spiders hide behind photo frames?

‘Spiders are thigmotactic, meaning they are instinctively drawn to tight, enclosed spaces where they have physical contact on multiple sides. The narrow gap between a photo frame and a wall is ideal,’ explains Mosh Latifi, co-owner of EcoCare Pest Management.

‘It is dark, undisturbed, protected from vibration and positioned at a height where spiders feel safer from ground-level disturbance. Add in the fact that picture frames on warm walls attract small insects and dust mites, which are part of a spider's food chain, and you have a very appealing habitat from a spider's perspective.’

If you don’t dust behind your frames regularly, they become the perfect hiding spot, where a spider can remain undisturbed. Sounds creepy, right? But the good news is that dusting disturbs spiders, making it less attractive for them.

‘Disturbing the environment behind frames removes the undisturbed conditions spiders need to feel secure enough to settle. Regular cleaning also removes the dusty, undisturbed cobweb remnants that signal to other spiders that an area is safe and established. A quick dust behind frames once a week during spider season in September and October makes a meaningful difference to how many choose to take up residence,’ confirms Mosh.

Regular cleaning will also keep your frames in top shape, too, making this weekly chore a win-win situation.

‘Clean the surface with a soft, slightly damp cloth in gentle circular motions. Clean water is usually all it needs - a scouring pad or anything too harsh can damage the canvas and strip the ink,’ says Julia Kindermann, manager at Custtom.

‘If a piece hangs somewhere naturally damp, near a bathroom or an exterior wall, it's worth checking now and then that the wooden frame hasn't started to warp. A warped frame can pull away from the wall slightly, and that's exactly the kind of gap that gives a spider more room to move in.

‘Taking a print down completely is rarely needed. A quick check and a light dusting every so often is usually all it takes to keep spiders from making themselves at home.’

Deter spiders from your home:

If you don't like spiders in your home, ensure you're dusting the backs of your photos for prevention.

Autumn is officially in full swing, and while most people love the falling leaves and cooler weather, the change of seasons also means that spider activity is at its peak. If, like me, you’re desperately searching for a way to keep eight-legged critters out of your home, experts are recommending a simple hack using one secret ingredient that you probably already have in the back of your cupboard.

There are many methods that you can try to get rid of spiders in your home, but this latest hack focuses on creating a deterrent at entry-points in your home to stop spiders from gaining access in the first place. And it’s as simple as using a stick of chalk to draw a spider barrier – here’s all you need to know.

How can chalk deter spiders?

Chalk is an effective home remedy to get rid of pests, like ants. And it turns out that spiders don’t like it either. ‘Spiders have chemoreceptors on their feet that detect surface chemistry as they walk. Chalk, which is calcium carbonate, creates a dry, alkaline surface that is deeply unpleasant for spiders to traverse,’ explains Mosh Latifi, co-owner of EcoCare Pest Management.

‘The texture of chalk also disrupts the grip of spiders’ tarsal claws, which they use to navigate surfaces confidently. The combination of chemical irritation and physical discomfort makes spiders reluctant to cross a chalk line, even if they can clearly detect a space beyond it,’ adds Mosh.

With this in mind, experts are urging us to draw chalk barriers around entry points to the home to help reduce the presence of spiders. To do this effectively, it’s important to identify where spiders are entering our homes from.

‘The most useful places to draw a chalk barrier are around likely external entry points, such as door thresholds, window frames and small gaps where spiders may be getting inside,’ explains Emily Green, home maintenance expert at Howarth Timber. But chalk can also be effective when used inside the home too.

‘Indoors, chalk can be used around windowsills, doorways and gaps around frames, where it should remain undisturbed for longer,’ says Emily. ‘But test the chalk on a discreet area first as it can mark some surfaces.’

With autumn marking the start of spider season, early October is the ideal time to put your barriers in place to see a drop in spider activity. ‘Draw your barriers now, in early October, which is peak spider mating season when males are actively moving around and looking for a way indoors. A dry day will give the best result as chalk on damp stone or wood is less effective and degrades more quickly,’ says Mosh.

It’s also worth noting that, in order for the chalk barrier to do its job, you have to keep them in good condition. ‘Chalk barriers degrade with moisture, foot traffic and cleaning, so it needs to be refreshed regularly to remain effective,’ says Mosh. ‘It might not make spiders permanently avoid an area but, if consistently maintained, it creates a meaningful deterrent.’

Are chalk barriers effective?

There’s no denying that spiders hate chalk, and while a barrier can deter them from entering your home, it might not work for every spider. ‘Chalk is often suggested as a simple way to deter spiders because the dry, powdery surface may make an area less appealing for them to cross. However, I would think of it as an extra deterrent rather than your main line of defence,’ says Emily.

Chalk will work well to reduce spider numbers somewhat, but it might not be enough to keep them out entirely. If you don’t want to take any risks, then it’s worth also addressing the things that make your home inviting for spiders. This includes reducing bright lights in the evening, managing humidity and moisture in your home, and being mindful of clutter.

Try a layered approach

In fact, it’s often thought that chalk works best as a layered approach, alongside shutting windows and implementing scents that spiders hate. Spiders are likely to view open windows as an open invitation into your home. So, as well as securing your windowsills with chalk barriers, it may also be worth implementing a spider curfew, just in case. And spray scents like eucalyptus or peppermint around entryways for extra defence.

‘Combine chalk with peppermint oil spray along the same entry points and make sure any visible gaps in door frames or window seals are physically sealed,’ suggests Mosh. ‘The chalk will deter spiders from crossing, the peppermint oil makes the area unpleasant to approach, and sealing gaps removes the entry point entirely. Each method reinforces the other.’

While I hate to break it to you, it is spider season in the UK, and if you’re looking for ways to stop these creepy crawlies entering your home, pest experts are recommending an all-natural, chemical-free method - that will also make your house smell gorgeous.

While spiders native to the UK won’t do you any danger, there’s no shame in admitting that many of us are afraid of them and therefore don’t want to share our homes with them. So, there’s no harm in looking for human ways to keep spiders out of a house.

One effective method is using a scent spiders hate. In particular, eucalyptus. Pest experts have revealed how you can use this to turn this relaxing scent into a powerful deterrent this autumn.

Why don't spiders like eucalyptus?

While spiders don't ‘smell’ in the same sense we do, they do rely on their sense of smell to help navigate, and the strong scent of eucalyptus interrupts this.

‘Spiders are highly sensitive to strong scents, and eucalyptus is one they tend to find overwhelming. Eucalyptus has a sharp, medicinal smell. Spiders effectively ‘taste’ and ‘smell’ their surroundings through receptors on their legs, so they rely heavily on chemical cues to navigate and find food. A powerful scent like eucalyptus can interfere with those senses and make an area feel unwelcoming, encouraging them to settle elsewhere,’ explains Dan Steward, Managing Director at Shield Pest Control.

If you want to harness the power of eucalyptus to keep spiders out of your home (and make it smell good in the process, your best bet is making a spray. To do this, you’ll need a spray bottle (£3.99, Amazon), water and of course, eucalyptus essential oil (£9.99, Amazon).

‘The most effective method is diluting 15 to 20 drops of eucalyptus essential oil in a spray bottle of water and applying it along skirting boards, window frames, door frames and any corners where spiders are regularly seen. Refresh every week or two as the scent fades,’ says Mosh Latifi, Co-Owner of EcoCare Pest Management.

‘Fresh eucalyptus branches placed in vases near entry points provide a gentler, longer-lasting ambient deterrent. Eucalyptus oil diffused in rooms where spiders are active is also effective and requires no direct application to surfaces.’

Is this a good method to deter spiders?

If you want to keep spiders out of your home, this is one of the most affordable methods you can use. Of course, you’ll also want to assess the things attracting spiders to your home, but experts say eucalyptus works as a great preventative method.

‘Eucalyptus can be a useful, low-cost and chemical-free deterrent, and it's a good option for anyone wanting to avoid harsher products. That said, it's best thought of as one part of a wider approach rather than a complete solution. Scent-based deterrents help make a home less inviting, but they won't seal the gaps spiders are getting through, so they work best alongside practical steps such as sealing small gaps around windows and doors, reducing clutter and damp, and regularly removing webs and egg sacs,’ adds Dan.

You could also introduce a spider curfew, whereby you close all the windows and doors post 7 pm to help reduce the amount of spiders entering your home via these entrances. I must also point out that the main draw of using eucalyptus is its fresh scent.

‘Eucalyptus has a clean, fresh, spa-like quality that many people find genuinely pleasant at home. Unlike white vinegar, which is highly effective but pungent, eucalyptus is something people actively choose to diffuse for its own sake. Using it as a spider deterrent is essentially a free benefit on top of something that already improves the atmosphere in a room,’ concludes Mosh.

Deter spiders from your home

A quick, easy hack that gets rid of spiders and makes your home smell like a spa in the process? Sign us up!

A few months ago, I moved to a new house and was over the moon to finally have space for a dishwasher in my kitchen. Having dreamed of one my whole adult life, I’m happy to report that it’s every bit the game-changer I’d hoped it would be. However, I have already run into a slight issue.

Although I’ve made an effort to keep on top of cleaning my dishwasher, I’ve noticed that my drinking glasses regularly come out looking cloudy and dirty - as though there’s a white haze lingering on the glass itself. Washing them again by hand gets rid of it, but defeats the purpose of using my dishwasher in the first place.

So, I reached out to experts to see where I was going wrong and what I could do about the cloudy glasses coming out of my dishwasher. And it turns out that it’s a common problem.

Why glasses come out of the dishwasher cloudy

According to the professionals, there are two reasons why glasses look cloudy when they come out of the dishwasher. One has a quick fix, while the other is a little more complicated.

Rosy Green, Dishwashing & Cooking Product Manager at Haier UK & Ireland, says, ‘Cloudy glasses are often caused by hard water, as minerals can build up on glassware during the wash cycle.’ And this makes sense, as I’ve already shared my struggles with living in a very hard-water area of Kent and how that affects many of my other home appliances.

Using dishwasher salt like this Finish Dishwasher Salt (£4 at Amazon) will help soften the water and reduce limescale, so it is a quick, affordable fix. I can also vouch for it, as I haven’t noticed any cloudy glasses since topping up my dishwasher with this salt (and keeping it topped up, too).

If you want to take an extra step, Rosy also suggests adding a rinse aid - like this Finish Dishwasher Rinse Aid (£5.08 at Amazon) to your dishwasher. She explains, ‘It helps water drain more effectively from glassware during the final rinse, reducing the droplets that cling to the surface and leave behind water spots and streaks.’

However, there could also be a much bigger problem at play - especially if you don’t live in a hard water area or you can’t remove the cloudy residue with some white vinegar and a damp cloth. Jade Golding-Gault, AO.com’s appliance expert, echoes this warning.

She says, ‘The glass may have become permanently damaged over time. This can happen when too much detergent is used or when delicate glassware is washed at temperatures that are too high. Using the correct amount of detergent and selecting an appropriate programme for glassware can help keep glasses clearer for longer.’

Thankfully, this wasn’t the case for me. But if your glasses are cloudy because they’re permanently damaged, there’s sadly nothing you can do. It’s up to you whether you keep them or ditch them. Just remember that you can no longer recycle them due to new regulations.

Extra dishwasher tips to prevent cloudy glasses

1. Keep on top of cleaning

Dishwasher maintenance is key, Rosy says. She explains, ‘If your glasses are consistently coming out cloudy, cleaning the dishwasher filter every one to two weeks and running a dishwasher cleaner through an empty cycle once a month can also help tackle limescale and detergent build-up.’

And if your glasses are cloudy due to limescale build-up, it may be worth cleaning your dishwasher with white vinegar or citric acid, as these acidic cleaners break down alkaline mineral deposits. Alternatively, you could use a ready-made cleaner like this Dr. Beckmann Service-it Deep Clean Dishwasher Cleaner (£3.60 at Amazon).

2. Check your settings

One of the many things I’ve learned since buying and using a dishwasher is that they’re highly customisable, and certain settings can improve the overall experience - and the results. One of these is the water hardness setting.

Sophie Lane, Product Training Manager at Miele GB, says, ‘If the dishwasher is set incorrectly for the local water hardness, it can affect the finish on the glassware.’ If you’re unsure of the water hardness in your area, you can check this via your water supplier.

3. Avoid overstacking

Although there are many surprising things you can clean in a dishwasher, you still need to be careful to protect your glasses and avoid overloading or overstacking. Rosy says, ‘Avoid overcrowding glasses and make sure delicate glassware is securely positioned on the top rack to prevent movement during the cycle.’

For optimum placement, face all dirty surfaces toward the middle of the appliance, avoid piling items on top of each other or obstructing the spray arms, and place smaller items on the upper racks.

Dishwasher essentials

So, say goodbye to cloudy glasses from the dishwasher!

Having spent my entire adult life renting, I’ve had my fair share of grotty, mouldy bathrooms. And to remove said mould from my bath and shower grouting, there is one Amazon buy in particular that I always rely on to strip mould effectively, with minimal effort on my part. I’m talking about Skylarlife Home Mould & Mildew Stain Remover Gel (£13.99).

There's a good reason this Amazon mould gel has been crowned one of Ideal Home’s best cleaning products. Its easy application, minimal scrubbing and effectiveness have made it one of my favourite ways to get rid of mould fast.

So much so that when I swapped one poorly ventilated bathroom for another last year, it was the first thing I reached for when it came to whipping my new bathroom into shape. Here’s why it’s the product I swear by to remove mould from grout.

When my partner and I moved into our one-bed flat in June last year, it was pretty much perfect. My only little niggle was the lack of a bathroom window, but any Bristol renter knows that somewhat affordable rent coupled with a good location is few and far between.

We have an extractor fan, but I have noticed that mould builds up fairly quickly without adequate ventilation. Alongside cleaning my bathroom, I frequently douse my shower cubicle with Astonish Mould & Mildew Stain Remover Spray (£2.50, Dunelm), which is highly effective.

But when it comes to my grouting, sometimes it needs a little extra TLC, and this is where the Skylarlife mould gel comes into play. I apply a thin strip of gel to my sealant, wait six to eight hours and then use the shower head to rinse it away. And that’s literally it!

While I’d love to sit here and give you a full step-by-step, that is genuinely all I need to do. I usually apply it before bed, so it can rinse away in the morning or before I start work in the morning. And the results do speak for themselves. Sometimes there is a little mould left over, but I find this mould is easy to remove with white vinegar.

What I will say is that this product is a strong bleach, so you should avoid getting the gel on your hands and keep it out of the way of children. And of course, remember to wash it off your tiles before getting in the shower!

Mouldy bathrooms are unfortunately something we all deal with, especially in the colder months. I’ve found this mould gel to be the best thing I’ve tried. Honestly, I hate scrubbing away at bathroom tiles, and this gel allows me to clean my bathroom faster and more efficiently. If you feel like you’ve tried everything to clean mould grouting, I recommend you try this miracle buy before choosing to regrout.

When you take pride in the tidiness and cleanliness of your home, it can be hard to look out of your window and see a neighbour who doesn’t do the same. But is there anything you can actually do about it? Well, it depends.

More often than not, you can’t choose your neighbours. And on their own private property, they’re technically allowed to do most things without feeling the repercussions. But when it comes to overflowing bins, piles of clutter in windows, weird smells and mess spilling into shared spaces, there is a level of respect and hygiene that needs to be maintained.

Sometimes, laws must be followed, too. That’s why I asked the experts what to do if you have a messy neighbour who has become a little too lax on their cleaning schedule. And when you might need to take things further.

What counts as a valid messy neighbour complaint?

‘Messy’ is a very subjective term, as one person’s mess is another person’s tidy. That’s why you need to be careful when addressing nuisance neighbours, as your concerns might be personal opinion rather than a valid complaint.

Couple this with the fact that freehold homeowners have no obligation to keep the inside of their homes clean and tidy, and you enter a grey area that can cause tension if not addressed properly. Tenants are a different story - but more on that later.

However, if your messy neighbour poses a genuine health and safety risk to you and other neighbouring properties (i.e., outside their boundaries), you have a very valid complaint. This is echoed by Neli Borisova, Senior Associate, Property Litigation at JMW Solicitors.

She explains, ‘Untidiness alone will not usually give rise to interventions. However, if the state of the mess creates health risks or public hazards such as attracting rats, rotting, overgrown plants blocking public pavements or drains, or harmful weeds spreading to your land, then you can report it.’

If your neighbour's mess is a ‘Statutory Nuisance’ - which means it leads to excessive smoke, dust or odours - you also have a legitimate complaint.

How to informally deal with a messy neighbour

1. Open up a friendly, polite conversation

When dealing with a messy neighbour, you need to understand that some people are clutter-blind to their own mess. And while you may have a proper cleaning routine in place in your own home, some people don’t - and they often miss the tell-tale smells that their home needs some TLC.

That’s why Neli says, ‘The best starting point is to try to speak to your neighbour calmly, explaining the particular issue, how it is affecting you and what you would like them to do about it. Your neighbour may not be aware of the issue or the impact it’s having on you.’

You can simply knock on their door to do this. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking to them face-to-face, you could also write them a letter. However, this can often come off as impersonal, so in person is always preferable.

2. Offer to help them

In some cases, your neighbour may have let their home fall into disarray through no fault of their own. They may be disabled or have medical conditions, be too old to maintain their home as they once did, or simply overwhelmed by everyday life, so tidiness has fallen to the bottom of their priority list.

Here, offering to help could solve your neighbourly complaint. You could offer to organise an extra bin through the council to deal with the overflowing rubbish, declutter and get rid of unwanted items if they don’t have a car, or spend a couple of hours cleaning problem areas. They will probably be very appreciative, too.

How to take things further

1. Take photos and document the mess

If the above options don’t work, taking things further is your next step. You’ll need evidence to back your case, so take photos of the mess if you can. Just be mindful that you do so on your own land. As Tom Janda, Property Partner at RFB Legal, explains, ‘You’re entitled to protect your own property, but that doesn’t give you the right to enter someone else’s.'

It’s also worth having a written record of the mess for your own notes, such as important dates and the nature of the mess. This will all aid your case and allow you to keep track of the problem.

2. Talk to their landlord

If your mess complaint is affecting common areas in a shared block of flats, the rules are slightly different. Neli explains, ‘Your neighbour’s actions may be in breach of their lease. Therefore, depending on how the building is owned and managed, you may want to raise the issue with the freeholder, management company or managing agent.’

If it’s a small, one-off mess, it may be that the landlord or freeholder will foot the bill to clean the area. If it’s a continuous problem, the landlord can speak to their tenant and remind them of their agreement to keep their home - and the communal areas - up to a high standard. This might not work, but it could be enough to kickstart their cleaning efforts.

3. Use a mediator

If you’ve tried to talk to your messy neighbour but haven’t gotten anywhere, you could also hire a mediator to help you negotiate a solution. You will have to pay for this yourself, but it can be a helpful next step if you don’t want to go down the (potentially very expensive) legal route.

A mediator will serve as a neutral, impartial middle man that will help you come to an agreement that works for both of you. This can often be done over the phone or in person, but it’s worth noting that the neighbour also has to agree to do this, too.

4. Report them to your local council

If the mess is severely affecting you or your home’s health and safety, and you’ve tried to sort the issue yourself with no luck, you can report your neighbour to your local council. You will need to provide a valid complaint and, ideally, evidence of this before they potentially take action.

As Neli explains, ‘The council has powers to take formal action to deal with such issues through notices and fines.’ However, if you feel like the council has not done a thorough investigation, it’s worth chasing them further.

Of course, you could also take your neighbour to court yourself. But as Samantha Jones, Senior Solicitor, Dispute Resolution Department at Bridge McFarland LLP says, ‘Instructing a solicitor to deal with a neighbour dispute should be a last resort as disputes of this kind are invariably lengthy and expensive, and there is rarely a winner.'

So, remember that a nice friendly chat can often work wonders!

Autumn and Spring offer the ideal window (pun very much intended) to clean your windows. The sun is less intense, temperatures are cooler, and there's always a huge buildup of grime to wipe away. And while you could do this by hand, have you ever considered letting a robot do it for you?

Yes, even the best window cleaning tools have received the robotic treatment over the past few years - joining the likes of robot vacuum cleaners, robot lawnmowers, and even robot pool cleaners for those lucky enough to need one. But while many of these other robotic gadgets have often seemed a little too expensive, robot window cleaners are becoming increasingly more affordable.

But are they worth it? I’ve got the lowdown on everything you need to know about robot window cleaners, including the good, the bad and the grimy. Plus, I’ve included insights from Ideal Home’s Editor-in-Chief, Heather, who has spent the past few months testing one at home.

What is a robot window cleaner?

Of course, a robot window cleaner does what it says on the tin. It’s a hands-free cleaning device that’ll clean your windows for you - without needing to use a squeegee and bucket as you would if you were cleaning windows the traditional way.

But how does a robot window cleaner work? Well, the gadget uses suction to seal itself to the glass of your windows, glass doors, and even your shower screens. It then uses sensors and smart navigation to detect seals and frames, then maps out a cleaning routine that delivers the best clean. You can also control it via an app or remote control.

These smart robot window cleaners also have built-in water tanks and cleaning pads (often rotating, round mop pads or square cleaning cloths, depending on the make and model) that spray and buff the windows as they follow their designated route. In theory, this should leave your windows clean and sparkling.

And while they are hands-free and rely on suction power to stay attached to the glass, robot window cleaners should also come with a safety cable - sometimes called a tether anchor. This prevents them from falling from a great height (i.e., your top-floor windows) and damaging your house or the people in it. It can sometimes even provide an extra surge of power if it runs out of charge.

The benefits of a robot window cleaner

Undoubtedly, the biggest benefit of a robot window cleaner is that you don’t have to clean your windows yourself, which can be both time-consuming and potentially dangerous. This is especially true for those hard-to-reach areas, or when you want to clean windows outside or up high and are uncomfortable using a ladder.

Letting a robot do it for you removes human-related safety concerns and often delivers a varied clean. In fact, most robot window cleaners - including budget-friendly options like the Kärcher RCW 2 Window Cleaning Robot (£179.99 at Amazon) - come with multiple cleaning modes that adjust the intensity of the water spray or the speed of the rotating cleaning pads, if they have them.

If the robot window cleaner is controlled via an app, you can also set it to work on its own, letting it clean your windows while you make a cup of tea or carry on with your work. You’ll just need to move it to the next window every so often.

In fact, that’s one reason our Editor-in-Chief, Heather, has loved using hers so much. She told me, ‘We had huge floor-to-ceiling sliding doors put in when we renovated our kitchen. They're great for letting light in, but they're a nightmare to clean as they're so huge. The robot window cleaner was super-easy to set up, and made really quick work of giving the doors a decent clean.’

She also said, ‘I felt quite apprehensive when I first set it going – how safe was it, would it suction ok or was it likely to drop off? Watching it climb the window on its own blew my mind! After using it a number of times, I'm really confident it's safe.'

Another benefit, besides cleaning the inside and outside of most flat glass features, is that it’s a worthwhile investment. It's a one-and-done purchase that you’ll always have when you need it, with the only ongoing cost being detergent (which you don’t necessarily have to use) and replacement cleaning pads when needed.

And if you pay a professional to clean your windows regularly, a robot window cleaner will generally be much cheaper in the long run. So, while it’s a high upfront cost, it’ll save you money over time.

The downsides of a robot window cleaner

While robot window cleaners have many impressive features, they’re not perfect. And we’re still at the beginning of what I believe will be a big robot window cleaner boom, so I expect many of these kinks will be addressed as newer models hit the market.

Of course, a big elephant in the room is the upfront cost - especially as some of the high-end models could set you back around £500. This is a big expense, and if you can clean your windows yourself, £500 may be a step too far. Thankfully, much cheaper models are available.

These gadgets do also have their limitations, as they can’t clean every pane of glass. They will struggle on particularly small or odd-shaped windows because they need space to manoeuvre, and you should never use them on a wet window, as this will affect the suction power. This means that you can’t use them in the rain or if there’s condensation on your windows.

Like the best robot vacuum cleaners, they also can’t clean everything or leave everything sparkling. And while a manual window clean lets you scrub stubborn bird poo or mud splatter, robot window cleaners often can't give that area the attention it deserves.

Heather found this to be true, too. ‘There were a couple of smears that I needed to buff with a microfibre cloth,’ she told me. So they're better for routine maintenance than a perfect finish.

Robot window cleaners also rely on battery power, which limits their run time. Most models - like this AlfaBot X7Pro Window Cleaner Robot (£179.99 at Amazon) - will offer at least 30 minutes of cleaning power, which may be enough for smaller homes with fewer windows. If you have a larger house, you may have to stop and recharge.

Of course, it’s also worth noting that robot window cleaners aren’t a necessary purchase. Heather said the same. She told me, ‘I think it's similar to my robot vacuum - it's a nice-to-have appliance, not a need-to-have. It's great at keeping the house generally cleaner, but it doesn't do away with the task completely.'

There are so many other ways to clean your windows if you’re not sold, though. You could invest in a telescopic brush like our Senior Digital Editor, Jenny, or you could use a much cheaper window vacuum to get the job done. It’s ultimately a personal preference.

Alternatives to consider

Although neither myself or the members of the Ideal Home team have tested these robot window cleaners, they're still worth considering. Just do your own research first.

What do you think? Should all homes have a robot window cleaner?

Right now, we’re in a weird ‘in-between’ period where the weather can’t quite make up its mind. The mornings are cold and damp, but by lunchtime, you seriously regret wearing your winter cardigan. You may also have noticed condensation forming on your windows.

Late September and October see condensation queries skyrocket every year, with homeowners wondering if they need to wipe condensation off windows and whether it poses a real threat to their houses. Well, the bad news is that it does - especially if you want to prevent damp. But one of the best ways to keep this moisture at bay is to use my favourite tool: a window vacuum.

The one I use everyday is the Karcher WV 6 Plus Cordless option and this clever gadget does what cleaning cloths and squeegees don’t. It actively removes the condensation from your windows, leaving them bone-dry and minimising the risk of the moisture growing into mould or mildew. But there are some caveats.

What to buy

Although window vacuums have many alternative uses, they have become a must-have for autumn and winter thanks to their condensation-busting power. They combine the cleaning power of a rubber squeegee with vacuum-like suction, sucking up moisture and leaving windows streak-free.

You can then pour the dirty condensation water down the sink, reducing overall moisture levels in your home and keeping your windows - and their seals - dry. And it’s essential that you do this right now.

Sam Fitzgerald, Founder of the Federation of Damp, told me, ‘This in-between weather is when it catches people out: nights are cold enough to chill windows and walls, but days are mild so the heating stays off, windows get shut, and the washing comes indoors, so the moisture has nowhere to go.’

It then settles on our windows as condensation, and it’s especially prevalent in bedrooms, where cold window surfaces clash with our hot breath and body heat. With prolonged moisture exposure, mould can form on seals and windowsills, then spread throughout the house.

Using a window vacuum every morning can help, though, and Simon Trenerry, CSDV (Certified Specialist in Dwelling Ventilation) and Technical Advisor at Safeguard Europe, echoes this.

He says, ‘Use a window vacuum, applying light, even pressure to ensure a seal between the suction nozzle and the window itself, then wipe any remaining water from the edges, frames and sills with a clean, dry cloth. You can also use an absorbent cloth or squeegee. Always make sure to fully collect the water rather than just sweep it onto the windowsill.’

However, it’s important to note that condensation is a temporary cure - not full prevention. If you want to limit the moisture forming on your windows in the first place, you’ll need to make some changes to your everyday habits.

Simon advises, ‘To help prevent condensation, use extractor fans that vent outdoors when cooking or showering, keep trickle vents open and dry clothes outside where possible. Heating helps keep surfaces warmer, while a dehumidifier removes moisture from the air.’

Thankfully, the best dehumidifiers come in many shapes, forms, and price points to suit your budget, so you can find one that works for you. But if you don’t have any spare cash right now, the free German ritual of lüften can also work wonders. This is simply ventilating your home.

Geoff Clarkson at Express Bi-Folding Doors, explains, ‘Opening your windows for proper ventilation is perhaps the easiest thing you can do to reduce condensation in your home, as it lowers overall humidity by circulating air.’

‘While it might be slightly colder outside through the in-between months, opening your window a crack first thing in the morning for as little as 15 minutes can substantially reduce the level of condensation. This is especially important in your bedroom, where just the effects of your breathing overnight can increase humidity!’

But if you want a tool that gets the job done even faster, I couldn’t recommend a window vacuum enough.

Will you be snapping one up this condensation season?

Sometimes, the areas of your home you can’t see are the ones you need to worry about most. These are those ‘out of sight, out of mind’ areas that aren’t on show, but are silently building up layers upon layers of dust.

And while I’ve always prided myself on having an efficient kitchen cleaning routine, I’m not ashamed to admit that I’ve neglected to dust above my kitchen cabinets. My 5-foot-nothing size means that: 1) I can’t see the space between my cabinets and my ceiling anyway, and 2) I can’t reach it. And my previous attempts to climb onto my worktops left me this close to having a broken ankle.

But cleaning this area is essential to a safe and spotless home, which is why I was over the moon to discover the Joseph Joseph CleanTech Adjustable High Zone Duster (£29 on Amazon). This is how it works.

This duster is such a simple idea, but it’s genius. It’s a long-handled duster for high areas of the home that are normally out of reach, with a fluffy, fully adjustable microfibre head that turns 208º to reach the most awkward, hard-to-reach spots. The pole also reaches 1.12m (or 3.7ft).

For me, this seems like it was made for cleaning the tops of kitchen cabinets. After all, there are always hacks to clean underneath cabinets and appliances, but never any to clean areas that are just way too high to do yourself naturally (and safely). And it’s important to do this, too.

For a healthy home - and kitchen - it’s essential to get rid of dust, and not just from an air quality point of view. Dust particles can irritate your nose and throat and trigger allergy symptoms, but they also provide the perfect sticking ground for grease and grime to settle, which can lead to pests and odours in your kitchen. Not to mention the increased fire risk.

But, of course, I wouldn’t be doing a very good job as Ideal Home’s Cleaning Editor if I didn’t try out products for myself - which is why I did just that. And let’s just say that the Joseph Joseph CleanTech Adjustable High Zone Duster won me over.

I twisted the handle to adjust the head angle, then swept the duster over the tops of my kitchen cabinets to catch the dust. It’s surprising how much gets up there, even with a small gap between the cabinets and the ceiling, but it collected a whole host of grime while I stood firmly on solid ground.

Impressed with its cleaning power, I then took the high-reach duster to arguably the most irritating area of my house: the conservatory. The inside of the conservatory roof is a magnet for spiders - especially at this time of year - and the cobwebs were on another level. My friends Joseph and Joseph removed them in seconds, though. And just look at the state of it afterwards.

What I love about this duster is that it requires very little physical effort, which is perfect if you have limited mobility or just don’t want your cleaning routine to take hours. If you want to give the lower areas of your house the same treatment, you can also buy the high-reach duster as part of a set with a low-reach floor duster - which I tested, too.

You can buy the CleanTech Adjustable High Zone & Floor Duster Set (£54 at Joseph Joseph) together - or, if you’re not fussed about the high-reach duster, you can buy the low-reach floor duster option on its own for £25 at Amazon.

I’ve really enjoyed using the floor duster to get right into the grooves and edges of my skirting boards, and I must admit that they’re also weirdly fun and satisfying to use. However, as with all Joseph Joseph products, they do come at a slightly premium price compared to regular dusters.

But as I already have (and love) my CleanTech set, it makes sense to keep adding to my collection. Especially as they fit neatly on my extender pole for easy storage.

There are similar options on the market, though, so you can still clean this awkward area of your home without risking breaking a limb.

Alternatives to consider

When was the last time you dusted the top of your kitchen cabinets?

I hate to say it, but it’s definitely spider season in the UK, and if you’ve noticed an influx of arachnids to your home, then you may benefit from introducing a window curfew to your home.

While I must point out that spiders won’t harm you in the UK, many adults are afraid of them, which is why many of us will be looking for ways to get rid of spiders during this time of year.

Instead of worrying about the things luring spiders into your home, it’s time to be proactive and stop them from entering your home in the first place. Introducing a 7 pm window curfew can help prevent spiders from creeping into your house. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is a window curfew?

A spider curfew is a completely free and easy way to keep pests out of your home, without having to rely on chemicals such as spider spray. All you have to do is shut your windows before 7 pm every night, and you should see a reduction in the number of spiders in your home.

‘A lot of people notice more spiders around the home at this time of year, but they're not usually coming inside looking for shelter. More often than not, they're following their food. As the evenings get darker, insects are attracted to the lights in our homes, and spiders tend to follow where there's an easy meal to be found,’ comments Simon Browne, product expert at Luxaflex.

‘Open windows can provide an easy route indoors, especially in the early evening when it's cooler, and people are trying to let fresh air in. Once it starts getting dark outside, the glow from lights inside the home can attract insects towards windows and doorways, which is why you may see more spider activity around these areas.

‘Closing your windows from around 7 pm can help reduce the chances of spiders finding their way inside, particularly during late summer and early autumn when they're most active. It's not a guaranteed fix, but limiting access points after dusk can certainly help make your home less inviting to both insects and the spiders that follow them.’

Is this a good method to use?

While we can’t quite promise you’ll see spiders disappear completely from your home, introducing a curfew can be handy alongside using other deterrents such as scents spiders can’t stand.

‘It won’t guarantee you never see a spider, because they can get in through other gaps and some will already be living in and around the building, but closing windows and external doors earlier in the evening should reduce the chances of more wandering in,’ says Darren Coates, window expert and sales director at SolarFrame.

Simon points out that you should also consider opening your windows during different parts of the day during spider season.

‘If you want to keep rooms feeling fresh without leaving windows open late into the evening, it's worth thinking about ways to manage ventilation earlier in the day. Keeping windows open in the morning or afternoon, then closing them as night falls, can help strike a balance between maintaining airflow and reducing the likelihood of unwanted visitors making their way indoors,’ he says.

Deter spiders from your home:

Will you be introducing a spider curfew to your home this month?

You’ve seen them all over social media, on your TV screens, and even on the train, and there’s no denying premium cleaning brands are doing everything they can to make sure everyone knows their names. But are they worth it? Well, I’ve always been a little sceptical.

As Ideal Home’s Cleaning Editor, it’s my job to test the best cleaning products out there - many of which can be found down the supermarket aisles or in bargain retailers. But in recent years, a new generation of eco-friendly cleaning products has come out of the woodwork, supposedly offering premium quality, scents and cleaning power.

Personally, paying anything more than a few pounds for a cleaning product has always felt like an unnecessary purchase. But I’m open to trying anything, so I got my hands on bestselling kits from two of the biggest ‘premium’ cleaning brands on the market right now (Purdy & Figg and smol) and put them to the test in my home. This is what I found out.

The delivery

I’d be lying if I said that the delivery of these cleaning products wasn’t exciting. Unlike supermarket purchases or even Amazon cleaning product orders, these came boxed in fancy, branded packaging that screamed 'premium'. Many of the products inside were then encased in their own smaller boxes, and there wasn’t a single piece of plastic in sight. Tick!

And while smol’s packaging was certainly a step up from the supermarket, Purdy & Figg was undoubtedly the winner on the delivery and packaging front. Opening it up felt like a luxury experience in itself, with the bottles and cleaning cloths laid out beautifully. And the scent? 'Wow', is all I can say (but more on that later).

The design and setup

Purdy & Figg and smol aren’t like traditional, pre-made cleaning products. Instead, you have to do a bit of potion-making, mixing the contents of the smaller glass refill bottles with water in the larger, reusable glass bottles.

Purdy & Figg has opted for brown bottles similar to the ones I have used to make my own cleaning products in the past, with the name printed on the front. One of the two bottles in my set also had an anti-slip silicone base to prevent scratches and damage. However, it’s a shame they don’t offer this anti-slip base with both bottles, though, as buying another will set you back another £6 on their website.

This is something smol does offer, as all three bottles in my set came with anti-slip bases that add practicality and style to the neutral colourway and design. These larger bottles - and the smaller refill bottles - also differ, as they’re 100% recycled aluminium instead of glass.

Both sets also came with two cleaning cloths, the setup was virtually identical, and they’re both undoubtedly a step up from gauche supermarket bottles and branding. But it's hard to choose a winner on design: Purdy & Figg is more traditional, while smol is more modern and neutral. Personally? I prefer smol's neutrality.

However, both brands also offer very different designs beyond the ones I tested. Purdy & Figg offers seasonal and collaborative branding - like this Autumn Complete Starter Kit (was £51, now £35 at Purdy & Figg) - and smol also offers very bright, colourful bottle options - like this Surface Clean Switches Bundle (£28.50 at smol).

The smell

Don’t get me wrong, smol’s cleaning products smell lovely and left my house smelling amazing. But there's a valid reason why Purdy & Figg always raves about the scent their products leave. They really are heavenly, and so long-lasting.

The different products - Counter Clean and Bathroom Bliss - are all made from unique essential oil blends that are tailored to different rooms and areas. The bathroom scents are fresh and citrusy, while the surface cleaners are slightly richer and more varied. And one of the things I loved most was that I could still smell the fragrance over 24 hours after cleaning with them.

In my eyes, this is a complete step-up from supermarket cleaning products - especially chemical cleaners that leave behind the stench of bleach. On the other hand, many natural cleaning hacks don’t have much of a smell at all.

It’s only really when you clean with essential oils that you can enjoy these fragrances, and what I love about Purdy & Figg - and smol, too - is that they offer a wide range of scents within these packs so you can pick and choose your favourites as you go on.

Just be warned that Purdy & Figg fragrances can be overwhelming if you have a sensitive nose like me. I found that pouring ¾ of the refill into the bottle was strong enough for me, as the full bottle was just way too strong for my liking.

The cleaning power

I don’t have the budget, equipment or, quite frankly, the intelligence to do full-scale microbial tests on the cleaning products I review for Ideal Home. Instead, I base much of my testing on visible differences, overall results, and the ingredients list.

And one big negative of both brands is that they don't offer any products with antibacterial or disinfectant properties; instead, they use eco-friendly surfactants to break down grime and make bacteria unstable. This is still more than enough for everyday cleaning, but it might not give you the peace of mind of knowing you’re ridding your home of bacteria.

You will also need at least one other true disinfectant or antibacterial product in your cleaning caddy if you deal with raw meat, since these premium products won’t protect against it.

The ingredients in Purdy & Figg cleaning products are water, plant-derived surfactants and essential oils. The ingredients in smol products vary depending on the product, but most are made from surfactants, enzymes and cleaning agents - meaning they’re closer to the ingredients used in supermarket cleaning products, but way more eco-friendly and natural.

I found this obvious during testing, as the smol products were more effective at removing tougher grime from my surfaces. This was especially true in my bathroom, as the lovely, foaming cleaning solution actively removed built-up soap scum and toothpaste stains without any scrubbing on my part.

In the kitchen, the results weren’t quite as black-and-white. My husband (the dedicated kitchen cleaner) said he preferred the streak-free finish Purdy & Figg Counter Clean offered, but that smol removed grime from the hob far more effectively. On a dirty draining board, smol also reigned supreme, but Purdy & Figg wasn’t far behind.

However, my husband and I questioned a few times whether we were just getting sucked in by Purdy & Figg's shine and scent. After all, when it smells clean, you just assume that it is clean.

But when you delve into some of the products - like the Oh! de Loo, especially - it's advertised as a deodoriser rather than an actual cleaner. This isn't the case across the board, but it's a good idea to double-check the specifics of what you're buying before you purchase, because the Oh! de Loo smelled incredible, but didn't actually have any cleaning effects.

The price

Unusually, smol is a subscription-only service that allows you to set up a recurring (and fairly flexible) delivery schedule by direct debit. In theory, this means that your products should arrive on your doorstep as soon as you run out of your last lot. You’re not locked into this, and can cancel anytime.

You can also try a free trial of the laundry capsules and the dishwasher tablets if you want to try before you buy. The refill system also makes it more affordable than other premium brands, with smol estimating that ongoing refill packs for the Multi-Purpose Cleaning Spray (after you’ve bought the starter pack with the bottle) will cost around £1.17 per 500ml bottle.

Purdy & Figg is more readily available, and you can even buy it on Amazon. You can also choose to buy it as a one-off or as part of a subscription service, with the latter making it slightly cheaper. All in, though, it’s much pricier.

After you’ve bought your initial starter kit, the subscription price comes to around £20.40 for a pack of three refills, which works out to about £6.80 per 300ml bottle - which is steep considering you can buy a 2L refill bottle of Method Anti-Bacterial All Purpose Cleaner (which also smells delicious) for £8.20 at Amazon.

However, it really is different strokes for different folks, and it’s hard to deny that both brands offer an entirely premium experience and scent for a little (and sometimes a lot) extra money every now and then.

Personally, I can see myself buying the smol on subscription for my everyday cleaning products, but then treating myself to Purdy & Figg refills to keep in the cupboard for a once-a-week scent refresh… because it really does smell that good.

But many other mainstream eco-friendly brands and supermarket own-brand cleaning products clean just as well if you don’t have the money to splash. They might not smell or look as nice, but they’ll still do the job. After all, these premium cleaning products are a nice extra… not a need.

I must admit that I've been swayed, but are you team supermarket or team premium?

Many people don’t realise how important it is to clean the things that clean for you. And as the autumn and winter months bring muddier clothes and heavier fabrics, it’s essential to keep a regular washing machine cleaning schedule, paying particular attention to the detergent drawer.

After all, cleaning a washing machine isn’t just about the drum or the seal. The detergent drawer is often the dirtiest part of the appliance, where detergent, conditioner, powders, and other sticky residues build up the more you use it. And as it’s often forgotten, this ultimately creates a breeding ground for mould and mildew.

A telltale sign of this bacterial growth is odours, which can then seep into the machine and transfer onto your clothes. Before you know it, your clothes smell musty, and your washing machine makes them dirtier. Luckily, there’s a pretty easy fix.

How to clean the washing machine detergent drawer

1. Remove the drawer and rinse

There’s no need to make this task any more difficult than it needs to be. So, your first step is to remove the detergent drawer for easy cleaning.

Emma Mannion, Cleaning Expert and Product Development Scientist at Astonish, says, ‘Most detergent drawers can be removed completely, so you can get into the corners where residue collects. Rinse away any loose build-up with warm water.’

Typically, this will be any leftover detergent or washing powder that has stuck to the bottom or sides of one - or all three - of the compartments.

Aim to remove as much as possible so it doesn't wash down into the drum or linger long enough to go mouldy, but don’t worry if you can’t remove everything during this stage.

2. Deep clean with washing-up liquid

Once you've removed the loose debris, deep-clean the detergent drawer. You don’t need any fancy or expensive chemicals, as washing-up liquid will do the trick. Just make sure the water is warm, and you’re using a high-quality, antibacterial washing-up liquid - like this Fairy Max Power Antibacterial Washing Up Liquid (£3.50 at Amazon).

Catherine Green, sustainable cleaning expert at smol, says, ‘Clean it in a bowl of warm, soapy water, using an old toothbrush to get into the nooks and crannies.’

You can also use dedicated crevice cleaning tools - like these SXhyf Hard Bristle Crevice Cleaning Brushes (£5.99 on Amazon) - to reach the edges and corners, so no mould or residue remains.

If you have a particularly dirty or stubborn drawer, you may want to repeat this step and soak it in the washing-up liquid mixture for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing again. Then, pour the dirty water down the sink and rinse with fresh, clean water.

3. Spray with white vinegar

As an extra step, I always like to clean with white vinegar by spraying it into the detergent drawer and wiping it with a microfibre cloth. This is because white vinegar is both antibacterial and antifungal, so it kills any lingering mould or bacteria that the washing-up liquid didn't wash away.

It can also fight lingering odours, neutralising smells and making the drawer sparkle so it both looks and smells fresh. However, you can also combine these last two steps by adding white vinegar to the washing-up liquid solution instead.

Personally, I like to keep them separate to ensure a thorough, deep clean every time, and I use this Miniml Sorrento Lemon Eco White Vinegar (£8.95 at Amazon) to get the job done.

4. Rinse and leave to dry

After you’ve completed the steps above, rinse the detergent drawer and leave it to air-dry for at least 24 hours before putting it back in the washing machine. This step is essential, as wet, damp components offer the ideal conditions for mould and bacteria to grow again.

5. Repeat once a month

Cleaning the detergent drawer should be an essential part of your washing machine cleaning routine, which you should do about once a month. However, this timeframe may vary depending on how often you use it, the state of the items you’re washing, and how well you clean it.

If you struggle with a smelly washing machine, have a large family, and regularly wash muddy, soiled clothes, you’ll likely need to do this every two weeks instead. And Emma says you want to avoid reaching a point where you can visibly see mould in the drawer.

She explains, ‘It's much easier to prevent build-up through regular maintenance than it is to remove established mould once it's taken hold. Small amounts of residue may not seem like an issue initially, but they can quickly create the conditions mould needs to thrive.’

6. Clean the rest of the washing machine

A clean drawer will stop mould and bacteria from spreading to the larger components of the washing machine, but you still need to clean the rest of the machine for the best overall results.

I’ve personally tried three ways to clean a washing machine, and found that cleaning with soda crystals was the winner - which is why I always have a bag of these Dri Pak Soda Crystals (£6.35 at Amazon) in my cleaning cupboard.

However, many ready-made washing machine cleaning products are out there, and you can keep things simple by using white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda instead. Whatever you choose, make sure you clean every inch of the machine (including the seal) to keep it in good working order, keep mould at bay, and keep your clothes fresh.

After you finish a wash, keep the door open to discourage moisture buildup, which can lead to even more mould.

So, take this as your reminder to clean this often-forgotten area of your appliance! If you stay on top of it, it'll get easier every time.

It’s somehow September already, and after an enjoyable summer your home will have accumulated dirt in many nooks and crannies that you may not even be noticing.

From pollen and dust to mud and surplus sweat, the period of time when the brunt of the summer heat has calmed down before autumn sweeps in is the perfect time to bust out your best cleaning products.

Whether you’re hosting for Halloween, already gearing up for Christmas, or just wish to give your home a good once-over, you’ll instantly feel like you have a cosier, cleaner space even if you only tackle a task or two.

After speaking to Michael Bogoyavlenskiy, CEO of Cleaning Express, Vladimir Todorov, owner & manager of Cleaner Cleaner Ltd, and Krasi Delcheva, a professional cleaner for Cleaners of London with over 25 years of experience, I’ve shortlisted five of the top things to clean in September, as well as why there’s no better time to clean them than the present. Let’s dive in!

1. Mattresses

Summer is a time when people sweat more than usual, and that sweat will be making its way into your mattress. If left unattended, this can lead to nasty odours or yellow patches forming, which nobody wants!

Vladimir from Cleaner Cleaner Ltd says September is an ideal time to catch up on this chore ‘before heavier autumn and winter bedding returns’, which will just lock in the smells and sweat. Since the weather is now cooling, it’ll feel like less of a workout dragging mattresses around too!

To clean a mattress, begin by stripping all of its bedding, including mattress protectors. Next, Vladimir recommends vacuuming the surface of the mattress slowly using an upholstery attachment. Doing this will remove any crumbs, debris and skin cells from the surface. For added cleanliness, sprinkle some baking soda over the mattress first and leave it for half an hour or overnight to naturally help neutralise smells. Don’t forget to clean the seams, piping and buttons!

Finally, check your mattress over for any stains you wish to spot clean using a cleaning agent like the Gardian Mattress Spray from Amazon. Once your mattress has fully dried, you can put new bedding on or flip it over. Make sure to let the mattress dry completely to prevent mould from developing.

2. Windows

In the summertime, people open their windows more often than usual, leading to all sorts of dust and dirt finding their way into window tracks. It’s good to tackle this cleaning task in September while the summer is still hanging in there because once rain and condensation arrive, a simple wipe-down will instead result in smears and smudges due to moisture.

Vladimir also adds: ‘Cleaning windows before autumn also gives you an opportunity to inspect the seals before cold weather hits.’

To clean your windows, start by opening them fully and vacuum loose dirt from the tracks and corners. Vladimir suggests using an old toothbrush to help loosen compacted dirt so it’s easier to vacuum up. Next, wipe down your window frame, tracks and rubber seals with warm water and a small amount of detergent. A microfibre cloth like the MR.SIGA ones from Amazon will do the trick. Finally, use another cloth to give everything a good dry and leave the window open for as long as possible. This ensures a more thorough dry, preventing mould from cropping up down the line.

3. Radiators

Radiators can accumulate lots of dust while not in use over the summer months, so there’s no better time than now to prepare them for the cooler seasons ahead.

As Krasi from Cleaners of London notes: ‘Clean them cold, in September, not once they're running. A summer of dust is sitting inside them, and when the heating comes on in October it burns off, and the whole room smells of it.’

Using a brush like this Radiator Cleaner Brush from Amazon is the easiest approach to clean up your radiators. It’s a flexible tool that won’t leave any scratches on surfaces.

4. Outside bins

It’s always good to keep your outside bins as clean as possible, but it’s even more important to address them in September as summer draws to a close.

Krasi explains: ‘After a hot summer, the wheelie bins have had things leaking and baking in them for months. Clean them now, in September, because nobody is scrubbing a bin outside in the cold and dark of November.’

A durable long-handled brush like the LAANPOLE Cleaning Brush from Amazon is ideal for scrubbing dirt and stains out of your bin. This brush, combined with a humble mix of soap and water, is all you’ll need for the job. Don’t forget to tip your bin over to allow excess water to drain.

5. Rugs and carpets

During warmer weather, soil outside develops a more sand-like consistency. It only takes a moment to track this into your home, popping in to get something or forgetting to take off your shoes.

As Michael from Cleaning Express says: 'Dry weather often leads to us tracking more dust and dirt into the house, along with the ever-present pollen that’s inevitably crept into your home. Plus, the weather should still be warm enough that things won’t take too long to dry.'

Give your rugs and carpets a good once-over with a vacuum cleaner and, if possible, shampoo your soft flooring with a gadget like the Shark CarpetXpert Deep Clean Carpet Cleaner available on Amazon. Doing this won’t only make your flooring more hygienic; it’ll also leave your carpets looking and smelling extra fresh for guests over the holidays.

If you're giving your home an autumn reset, don't forget to tick these cleaning jobs off your to-do list.

Although the sun may still be (slightly) shining, there’s no denying that the seasons are changing. The days are getting shorter, mornings are getting colder, and it’s definitely getting damper. And that’s only going to get worse as the weeks go by.

Of course, knowing how to get rid of damp will be key during the autumn and winter months. But certain rooms in the house are naturally more moisture-prone than others, and, unfortunately, many of our bad shower habits are making things worse by creating the perfect breeding ground for mould to develop and spread in the bathroom.

As Emma Mannion, Cleaning Expert and Product Development Scientist at Astonish, explains, ‘The tricky part is that it usually builds slowly, so a lot of people only spot the problem once the black marks have already appeared.’ But if you tackle your bad habits now, you can focus on prevention rather than the cure.

1. Letting moisture sit

Showering flings water everywhere, from the tiles and shower screen to the floor itself. And while it can be easy to run from the bathroom to your bedroom without a second thought as to what you leave behind, people with consistently clean bathrooms never let this moisture sit for too long.

Emma says, ‘The biggest mistake is letting moisture sit after every shower. Water left on screens, tiles and sealant gives mould the damp surface it needs to spread, so a quick squeegee or wipe-down makes more difference than people realise.’

If you want to be extra efficient, removing this moisture is one of the cleaning tasks you can actually do in the shower (with the water off, of course), using a squeegee and a cloth to reach every nook and cranny. Personally, I always use an absorbent, streak-free cloth like these Marigold 2 x Squeaky Clean Microfibre Cloths (£6.78 at Amazon).

2. Scrunching up towels

When it’s damp outside and damp inside the bathroom after showering, scrunching up towels won't help the situation. This is echoed by Samantha Lawson, Bathroom Design Expert at Drench, who says we need to focus on keeping towels fresh and dry in between uses.

‘Because bathrooms are naturally warm and humid, leaving a wet towel folded or scrunched limits airflow, meaning it takes much longer to dry. This extended dampness allows mildew to form, resulting in a sour, musty odour that is incredibly difficult to wash out,’ she explains. And if those damp towels are left on or up against tiles, this can cause damp in the room itself, too.

It may be that switching up your towel storage idea helps with this, and Samantha advises, ‘Allow your towels to dry as flat as possible, or better yet, place them on a heated towel rail. Make sure they are 100% dry before folding them away.’ And if you have a small heated towel rail, using hooks like these Set of 2 Black Magnetic Hooks (£12 at Next) can instantly double your space.

3. Closing the bathroom up

Alongside rogue water from the shower itself, one of the biggest causes of damp and mould in a bathroom is excess steam. And, ideally, you want to get rid of the steam as soon as possible - instead of trapping it inside the bathroom to condense, form water droplets, and settle on surfaces.

This steam is especially damaging if you’re trying to stop condensation in a windowless bathroom, which is why Emma urges everyone to open windows (if they can) and use extractor fans for as long as possible after a shower. She also suggests keeping the bathroom door open once the room has cooled to keep the air circulating.

If you’re guilty of closing the bathroom door immediately, it may also be worth utilising moisture-absorbing bathroom plants and considering whether you can use a dehumidifier in a bathroom. After all, it’s important to use the right type of dehumidifier to ensure it’s as safe as possible.

4. Using too many products

Everyone has their own take on what essentials they need in the shower, from shower gels to shampoos. And while you can technically use as many as you want, you need to be conscious of how these products affect your bathroom - especially if you want to keep your shower damp and mould-free.

Samantha explains, ‘Plumbing blockages are actually the leading cause of bathroom complaints across the UK, and they are a massive source of nasty, musty odours. Over the summer, a buildup of hair, soap scum, and body oils accumulates inside the pipes. When a drain is partially blocked, water cannot flow freely, creating stagnant pools that quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria and pests.’

Come autumn and winter, pipes and drains still blocked from summer can lead to water pooling and bacterial growth, causing damp and mould. Thankfully, it’s very easy to clean a shower drain. You can use these EcoZone Drain Cleaning Sticks (£9.99 at Amazon), or pour bicarbonate of soda, followed by white vinegar, down the drain and let it sit overnight. This should break down any stubborn grime.

5. Not giving furniture enough space

No matter whether you have a tiny shower cubicle or a whole wet room, there’s a high chance that you also have some furniture in your bathroom, like a bathroom vanity or a laundry basket. And while these are essential for a tidy bathroom, they can aid mould build-up.

Samantha warns, ‘When we push them completely flush against the bathroom walls, we cut off vital air circulation. Moisture from humid showers settles in these narrow gaps, creating dark, damp pockets where mildew and mould thrive completely unnoticed.’ In fact, this is often why most people end up with mouldy grout and silicone sealant.

Thankfully, the solution is easy. Samantha explains, ‘Move freestanding furniture and accessories slightly away from the walls to allow air to flow freely. I often recommend opting for wall-hung vanity units. Elevating your furniture off the floor not only makes your bathroom feel significantly larger and brighter, but it also eliminates awkward, unhygienic floor gaps, making it incredibly easy to keep the surrounding areas clean, dry, and damp-free.’

6. Overlooking the shower curtain

While some may think that they’re old-fashioned, there are so many amazing shower curtain ideas that are both modern and chic. But if you have one in your bathroom, you need to take care of it, as overlooking your shower curtain can lead to bigger mould problems that are harder to tackle.

‘Shower curtains constantly get wet, making them prime real estate for mould and soap scum buildup long before you notice visible signs of dirt. If your curtain is bunched up in the corner while wet, moisture becomes trapped in the folds and begins to smell damp,’ Samantha explains.

The solution here is to pull the curtain back to dry after every shower, and clean it regularly (at least once a month) to keep on top of any mould or mildew growth. Samantha says, ‘A brilliant laundry hack is to throw a couple of clean, dry bath towels into the washing machine drum along with your shower curtain. The towels provide gentle friction during the cycle, helping to scrub away slimy soap scum and mildew without damaging the curtain's fabric.’

7. Ignoring the extractor fan

Airflow and moisture extraction are key when you want to keep mould and damp out of your bathroom, and using your extractor fan is essential - even for the quickest showers. However, too many people neglect their extractor fan and don’t give it the TLC it needs, which can reduce its effectiveness and lead to moisture buildup.

‘Over the summer, dust and fluff combine with high bathroom humidity to create a thick, felt-like layer over the fan's filter and grilles. This severely restricts airflow, meaning your fan has to work twice as hard to remove half as much steam, leading to moisture settling directly on your walls,’ Samantha warns.

Because of this, it’s worth cleaning your extractor fan and its filters before autumn really rears its head. Make sure you isolate the power first, and then use either a duster or a handheld vacuum to remove any lingering dust. You can also remove the plastic cover, wash it in a solution of washing-up liquid and water, then allow it to dry and pop it back in place.

So, take this as your sign to break up with your bad bathroom habits this autumn.

Until joining the Ideal Home team, I had never considered how a washing-up bowl can make cleaning a kitchen easier, nor that sometimes its design can be interesting, too. But now that I am well-acquainted with these facts, I’m back with another clever washing-up bowl: the ReBorn Washing Up Bowl Pro (£39, Argos).

One thing people with tidy sink areas always tend to have is some sort of clever caddy or bowl to help make the cleaning process more efficient. If you’ve always found bowls make more mess than they save (me), the ReBorn Washing Up Bowl Pro is designed to sidestep this problem.

With a clever cutlery compartment and handy drainage plug, here’s why I predict ReBorn’s new washing up bowl will be the sink of every washing up pro soon.

For a long time, the Joseph Joseph washing up bowl was a favourite amongst Ideal Home editors due to its built-in plug, which allows you to drain dirty dishwater without having to lift it up to tip it. This feature made it a great choice for people with mobility issues, as well as offering everyday convenience. You can even get an even more affordable version: Minky’s £10 washing-up bowl with plug.

ReBorn’s washing-up bowl also has the aforementioned clever plug for easy draining, but what sets it apart from the Minky and Joseph Joseph bowl is that it has a separate drainage drawer.

This drawer can be attached to the inside or outside of the bowl to store sponges and brushes, or even to drain cutlery. This space-saving feature is great for small kitchens, where you may lack the space for a separate sink caddy.

It’s been designed to fit in most sinks while holding a whopping 9L of water. It’s lightweight and durable for ease of use, and it is also dishwasher-safe, making it easy to keep it clean. If you have the space, you can also get a matching ReBorn Sink Tidy for £18.

At £39, this is definitely one of the most expensive washing-up bowls I’ve spotted, so I can appreciate it’s not a practical choice for everyone. I recently discovered foldable washing up bowls (which you can snap up for as little as £3), which, as the name suggests, fold flat when not in use, making them great for tiny kitchens, uni houses and even camping trips.

Would you invest in the ReBorn Washing Up Bowl Pro?

Last week, I awoke to a spider (quite literally) hanging out on my bedroom ceiling…right above my head. The next day, I unknowingly took a shower with one of these eight-legged critters. And if that’s not a sign that spider season is officially here, then I don’t know what is.

Even more horrifyingly, experts warn that this year’s spider season will be worse than ever, as the warmer temperatures will result in them staying active for longer as they go in search of their mates. Because of this, knowing how to get rid of spiders is key - but understanding why they’re coming in is equally as important.

And it turns out that many of us (me included) have unknowingly been luring these spiders into our homes without even realising it. So, it’s well worth understanding what attracts spiders and making a few changes before these rent-dodging lodgers outstay their welcome.

1. Moisture and humidity

While spiders can set up camp in any room of the house, they definitely have a preference. As Alex Woods from Victorian Plumbing explains, ‘You’re most likely to find spiders in your bathroom or kitchen, because their food is attracted to dark, moist areas.’

And by ‘food,’ Alex means most insects, including flies, mosquitoes, moths, and earwigs, all of which are typically attracted to your moisture-ridden drains and pipes. So when a spider needs a meal, it’s going to head straight to the source and head to the areas that are high in moisture and humidity, too.

Because of this, it’s well worth cleaning your drains regularly and keeping humidity in these rooms to a minimum. Opening windows and using extractor fans can help here, but you may also want to use a non-electric dehumidifier, such as this Absodry Moisture Absorber (£27.99 at Amazon), to tackle excess moisture.

You can also use plants and the scents spiders hate to your advantage here. Alex explains, ‘Plants such as mint, lemongrass or eucalyptus will not only elevate your bathroom interior, but they will help warn off spiders as they hate these kinds of aromas.’

2. Bright lights

The days definitely start getting shorter in September, and you may be inclined to use your outdoor lights as a result. Just be warned that these can also attract spiders into your home, especially if you’re also leaving doors and windows open to enjoy the still-warm weather.

Helen Godsiff, Brand Manager at Eurocell, warns, ‘When spending time outdoors, keep outdoor lighting to a minimum where possible, as the lights can attract insects, which in turn provide a food source for spiders.’

She adds, ‘This can make areas around the home and garden more appealing to them, so don’t be surprised if you notice an influx in the kitchen or garden rooms.’ And when they’re in your house, they’re probably not going to want to leave anytime soon.

Of course, not using your lights at all may be a step too far for you, but simply understanding that lights will attract spiders can be all you need to keep them out - especially if you enlist the help of a spider catcher and rehome them as soon as you spot one trying to sneak its way in.

3. Clutter

It’s already a well-known fact that excess clutter can cause damp, so it should come as no surprise to learn that clutter can also attract spiders. But it turns out that spiders also love hanging out and spinning their webs in clutter because they love being warm and cosy and hate being out in the open.

Luke Newnes from Hillarys explains, ‘Dark, undisturbed areas with piles of stored items can provide ideal conditions for spiders to settle. Keeping these spaces tidy and regularly checking stored belongings can help discourage them from nesting.’

After all, if a spider nests in your house, there’s a very high chance that future spider babies will soon call your home their home - making the situation so much worse. Because of this, decluttering regularly (without making a bigger mess) can work wonders. You also need to maintain a regular cleaning schedule.

Having one of the best vacuum cleaners to hand can help. Dr Jonathan Kirby, Head of Research & Development at Safeguard Europe, says, ‘Regularly remove or vacuum webs and any visible egg sacs. This can reduce activity, but spiders will quickly attempt to rebuild their webs if suitable shelter and insect prey remain. Reduce clutter and keep flies and other insects out to make it harder for spiders to enter and settle.’

4. Shelter

You probably don’t need me to tell you that the weather in the UK is becoming increasingly unpredictable. This summer alone, we’ve gone from month-long heatwaves to flash flooding. Because of this uncertainty, spiders seek shelter in our homes to find a stable place to enjoy mating season.

And when they want to come in, they do so through the weak spots in your home - including cracks and gaps in windows and door seals. The good news is that fixing these can also help you draught-proof your home ahead of winter.

Luke advises, ‘Check external doors and window frames for small cracks or gaps where spiders can enter. Replace damaged weather seals and use exterior-grade sealant- both of which can be picked up for less than £10 from most DIY retailers to close openings around frames, helping to prevent spiders from getting inside.’

In fact, you can buy this UniBond Outdoor Window & Door Frame Sealant for just £8 at Amazon. And if there are bigger gaps that need to be filled in order to keep spiders and draughts out, you can also buy draught-excluder tape for a very affordable price, too.

5. Food waste

We already know that spiders follow their food's footsteps, and flies will also enter homes with human food waste and crumbs for them to eat. Because of this, it’s also important to keep this to a minimum during spider season - and at any point throughout the year - if you want to keep critters at bay.

This means emptying normal waste bins as soon as possible, sealing your food waste caddy and taking steps to deter flies, and regularly wiping down surfaces to remove any lingering crumbs, sticky residue, or large chunks of food.

When you’ve done this, it’s well worth cleaning any areas where food has been present with essential oils, as spiders hate these scents. Alex advises, ‘A drop of essential oil is enough to deter a spider. You can make your spider repellent by mixing essential oil (20 drops) and water in a spray bottle. The best essential oils to use for your repellent are: tea tree, lavender, peppermint, citrus, and cinnamon.’

Just be warned that some essential oils are toxic to pets, so it’s worth taking caution if you have animals in your home - or avoid them altogether. Thankfully, making a white vinegar spider-repellent spray can be just as effective, and you can pick up a bottle of white vinegar for just £1.50 at Dunelm.

Sorry, spiders, if you're not paying rent then you're not coming in...

While I’d like to think that my clean and tidy home reflects everything I’ve learned during my years as Ideal Home’s House Manual Editor, it’s nothing compared to my mum’s house. Every time I open her front door, I’m reminded that it really is as spotless as you can get - and it’s both impressive and irritating.

I’d love to say that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, but the reality is that I’ve taken a lot of inspiration from the things people with tidy homes always have to give my house a complete overhaul over the past year or so. But my mum isn’t like that. She isn’t swayed by fancy tools, social media trends or questionable hacks. She’s mastered a regime that works perfectly all on her own.

So, on a recent trip back to Dorset to see my family, I decided it was time to interview the one person whose house has been clean and tidy for as long as I can remember: my mum. And these are her clutter-busting tips for a spotless home.

1. Deal with clutter immediately

There are many things you’ll never find at my mum’s house: clothes on the floor, clutter on the kitchen worktops, or toys spread all over the living room (which is pretty impressive considering my nephews often turn her living room into their own personal racetrack). That’s because my mum deals with clutter immediately.

As soon as she spots something out of place or something that needs to be thrown in the bin, she moves it to where it needs to be - similar to a 10-minute declutter, but more natural rather than a scheduled organising session.

She’s even got my nephews involved and makes them pop all of their toys back in one of these Really Useful 3 x 62L Plastic Storage Boxes (£33 at Argos) when they’ve finished playing. That box then goes straight in the wardrobe when they leave, keeping the living room - and the rest of the house - as clean and tidy as possible.

Tackling clutter immediately is something I’ve struggled with in the past as I am prone to procrastination, but I’m definitely getting better thanks to my clutter bucket technique. I even keep one on my stairs for clutter, and set a midnight deadline that same day to empty this Woodluv Seagrass Stair Basket (£24.99 at Amazon).

2. Pick a dedicated ‘housework’ day

For as long as I can remember, Friday has been my mum’s ‘housework’ day. And every Friday, she starts her morning by giving the entire house a refresh from top to bottom - dusting every surface with these classic yellow dusters (which you can buy in a pack of 10 on Amazon for £10.95), vacuuming the floors, and giving the bathrooms and kitchen a proper scrub.

The only time she has ever strayed from this routine was when I was still in school, and she was still at work - but even then it was early Friday evening rather than Friday morning. But while this seems to run counter to expert advice to avoid cleaning overwhelm, my mum swears by it.

In her eyes, spending a few hours making the house immaculate one day a week is far superior to cleaning little and often throughout the week, and it makes the house much easier to keep clean. And if any spills or messes occur on another day, she can handle them in seconds and won't have to think about cleaning for the rest of the week.

She also loves the satisfaction of seeing a properly clean house by the end of her housework day, and I’ve started doing the same in my home. Granted, my housework day is Sunday, and I often cheat by using these overnight cleaning hacks to let my appliances do the cleaning while I’m sleeping. But copying her has still worked wonders in my home.

3. Storage organisers are a must

Although my mum doesn’t spend a huge amount of money on fancy, trending storage organisers you see all over social media, she does use a few staple organisers to keep certain areas of her home tidy. Including her bedroom and bathroom.

Like people with tidy clothes, she loves using drawer organisers to categorise her clothes so she knows where everything is and can keep them neatly folded. This is something I’ve invested in recently, too - and while she uses the SKUBB Boxes from IKEA for £6, I use the DIMJ 12 Pack Drawer Organisers (£19 at Amazon) because I find the sizes to be way more generous.

She also stores ‘non-essential’ shoes at the bottom of her wardrobe, but keeps a small shoe rack by the front door for everyday shoes to prevent clutter. She’s had the same shoe rack for so many years that it’s now completely sold out, but it’s very similar to this Argos Home 2 Shelf Stackable Shoe Rack (£7 at Argos).

In her en-suite, she also uses a caddy to organise her makeup and face creams, preventing them from cluttering her sink area and ensuring everything has a home rather than spreading out across the rest of her bathroom and connected bedroom.

4. Only eco-friendly cleaning products allowed

Over the past few years, my mum has become increasingly eco-conscious. She’s become vegetarian like me, replaced my dad’s diesel van with an electric one, and switched to entirely eco-friendly cleaning products. In fact, Nancy Birtwhistle’s Clean & Green book (£10.99 at Amazon) has become her cleaning Bible.

This is something I really admire her for, as she now makes her own multi-purpose sprays, floor cleaner, window cleaner, and laundry detergent from completely natural, eco-friendly products - and she even convinced me to try Nancy Birtwhistle’s ‘Pure Magic’ recipe, which completely transformed my toilet last year.

Her home is proof that you don’t need chemicals to clean your home; you just need a few staple ingredients such as washing-up liquid, citric acid, white vinegar, soda crystals, and essential oils for cleaning and to add that much-needed scent whenever you want to give your house some TLC.

My mum pops these multi-purpose, eco-friendly cleaning products in bottles like these Amber Glass Spray Bottles (£13.99 at Amazon), but with fewer bottles of chemicals, she also manages to keep her cleaning cupboard ridiculously tidy and organised.

5. Be ruthless when decluttering

My mum and I were both born in July, and as Cancerians, we’re both extremely sensitive and driven by emotion. And while I often struggle to part with items I know I no longer need and lean into my birth-month decluttering style to find a good compromise, my mum takes the more ruthless route.

To maintain a clean and tidy home, she likes to keep as few things out on show at all times. Of course, she keeps photo frames, decor and family heirlooms on display to add personality to her place, but if something can’t be put back in its dedicated home immediately or no longer serves any purpose… it’s time to go.

In her eyes, there’s no need to keep something ‘just in case,’ and she’s tried many ways to get rid of items after a declutter. She’s found the most success - and money - with platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Vinted, where she’s sold everything from old furniture to car mats, clothes, and kitchen appliances she no longer uses.

She wasn’t always so ruthless, but in finally admitting that she doesn’t need as much stuff as she once had, she’s found that it’s so much easier to keep on top of tidying. It’s also easier to clean her house, as she doesn’t need to move everything out of the way just to dust her living room.

I'm not quite at my mum's level yet, but I'm getting there!

Before I became Ideal Home’s Cleaning Editor, I was a uni student learning the hard way that it is possible to burn microwave meals and that the cleaning fairy (AKA my mum) wouldn’t magically come to clean my uni room every day. And it’s safe to say that I’ve learnt a lot since then.

But while it’s now my job to test the best cleaning products and understand the most efficient way to maintain a clean and tidy living space, I also appreciate that uni students aren’t like regular homeowners. They don’t have a practised cleaning schedule or a steady income to stock up on cleaning tools; they’re rookies with limited time, space and money.

That’s why I thought I’d use my years of experience as both a student and a Cleaning Editor to keep things simple. Below are the three cleaning tools I think every uni student should have, and most of these non-negotiables will get the job done without costing a fortune. I’ve also added some handy extras if you want to go the extra mile.

1. A damp duster

Dust is the one thing that no one, not even uni students, can ignore. And while a regular duster can cut the mustard, I’ve found during my dedicated dusting tests (yes, this really is my job) that damp dusters are always the better option.

That’s because damp dusting removes more dust than dry dusting, capturing the dust particles instead of just pushing them around. And the beauty of this cheap-but-cheerful cleaning tool is that it can be reused time and time again by simply washing it clean under the tap.

They are incredibly affordable, too, with retailers like Dunelm selling packs of 3 for just £3. And the damp duster can clean almost everywhere, from windowsills and desks to skirting boards and mirrors in uni halls or student houses. It helps that it also looks way cooler than a regular duster…

2. A handheld vacuum

Although I had a shared kitchen at uni, I spent a lot of time eating snacks and meals in my bedroom. Couple that with my long hair, my mattress and floors took the brunt of these crumbs, hair and everyday dirt. That’s why I’d suggest every university student have one of the best handheld vacuums to hand.

These appliances are typically better suited to smaller spaces and messes, making them perfect for uni halls and shared houses where storage space is limited. And as there are so many things you didn’t know you could clean with a handheld vacuum cleaner, I have no doubt that students will use it more than you think.

One of my favourite new handheld vacuum cleaners is the Shark PowerBoost Handheld Vacuum Cleaner (£229.99 at Shark), thanks to its impressive suction power. However, it is on the pricier side, so if you’re after a cheaper option, I’d suggest the Beldray model below.

3. Multi-purpose sprays

I will always remember the day my parents dropped me off at university with bottles upon bottles of cleaning products. Especially as my mum had to take most of them back with her when she realised that I had nowhere to store them in my tiny halls of residence.

And while I’m personally a fan of room-specific cleaning products now that I have my own house and the means to add them to my cleaning regime, uni students just don’t need them. Instead, multi-purpose sprays can be used on any surface or room and will do just as good a job.

Just opt for an anti-bacterial all-purpose spray if you want to keep the spread of fresher’s flu to a minimum, and make sure you use a pack of high-quality cleaning cloths - like these SEEP Eco All Purpose Cloths (£9.50 at Amazon) - to dedicate one cloth per room or space.

University extras to consider

The three products above are my non-negotiables for all new and returning university students. But if you have wiggle room in the budget and want to make uni life even sweeter, these are the extras I'd consider.

Are you or a loved one heading off to uni soon? Make sure you take these university cleaning essentials with you!

Trying to work out how to kill maggots in your kitchen bin? You’re not alone, as all this hot summer weather has provided the perfect breeding conditions for flies, and now many households are reaping their grim rewards.

Yet don’t panic. If you want to know how to kill maggots, you’ve landed in the right place, as pest experts are recommending this non-chemical method to kill larvae and end your infestation.

The method in question? A generous sprinkling of food-grade diatomaceous earth (£12.99, B&Q) in your bin. Here’s why it’s so effective.

How to use diatomaceous earth to kill maggots in a bin

Diatomaceous earth may have a complicated name, but it is essentially the fossilised remains of ancient sea life that looks and feels a little like sand. It has multiple uses, but pest experts swear by getting rid of certain insects. For example, diatomaceous earth is also effective at eliminating ants.

‘Diatomaceous earth (DE) is used as a pesticide, among other things. We like using it because it’s one of the most effective solutions that’s not toxic to humans and pets. Surprisingly, for an effective pesticide, it’s a natural solution, made from the powdered fossilised remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. When crushed, they create sharp particles that can cut any creatures that crawl over them,’ explains Adam Juson, pest expert and founder of commercial pest control specialists, Merlin Environmental.

When it comes to the maggots in your bin, diatomaceous earth dehydrates them rapidly, killing swiftly and effectively.

‘Empty the bin, remove any remaining waste and give it a clean with hot water and a diluted white vinegar or disinfectant solution. Allow it to dry thoroughly. Once dry, dust a thin, even layer of food-grade diatomaceous earth across the base and sides of the bin before relining it. The powder needs to remain dry to work, so reapply after the bin has been washed. A light dusting on top of the bin liner is also effective as an ongoing preventative measure during warmer months when flies are most active,’ says Mosh Latifi, Co-Owner, EcoCare Pest Management.

‘The microscopic sharp edges of the diatomaceous earth particles penetrate the soft outer cuticle of maggots and other larvae on contact, causing them to dehydrate rapidly. Unlike chemical insecticides, there is no poison involved, just a purely physical mechanism. This also means insects cannot develop resistance to it, which makes it consistently effective over time.’

Why is this a good method to try?

If you’re looking for a chemical-free solution that is safe to use around kids and pets, diatomaceous earth is a good idea.

‘But most of all, it’s effective. The only issue people have with DE is that it needs to stay dry to work; you’ll need to keep your bins undercover or reapply it after rain. If you do keep finding maggots, there may be a bigger problem than just your bins, and that’s when it's worth getting a professional pest assessment,’ says Adam.

It’s also worth looking at how to prevent maggots in a bin, which includes regular cleaning and disposal of food waste. You should also look for ways to deter flies from your home to prevent an infestation in the first place.

However, if maggots have set up shop in your kitchen bin, rest assured that diatomaceous earth is an effective way to kill them.

On a recent camping trip, there was one accessory every camper seemed to be sporting. A collapsible washing-up bowl, and upon arriving home, I decided they’re a practical and space-saving solution for my small kitchen.

I can’t say I’ve ever paid too much attention to washing-up bowls, but people with tidy sink areas do, and choosing one that is the right style and size for your sink area does make a difference. I have limited space in my own kitchen, so a washing-up bowl that I can fold up and stash away when not in use sounds like a good idea to me.

Ever since returning from my trip, I’ve spent more time than I’d like to admit considering the merits of a collapsible washing-up bowl. Here’s why I think it’s a good fit for my small kitchen ideas.

Every summer, my partner and I swap Bristol for the Pembrokeshire coastline, and it’s always my favourite trip of the year. Having been going camping since I was a kid, I’ve always assumed I knew exactly what to bring.

But this year, as I carried a haphazard ensemble of pots and pans, all my neighbours were sporting a collapsible washing up bowl just like this Dunelm Collapsible Cleaning Bowl with Handle (£10). While they were seemingly great in a camping situation, I wanted one for my home.

My flat is not exactly blessed with space. I have an open plan kitchen/ living room, with my sink area crammed into a corner. I don’t have a washing up bowl. I find they get in the way and can be annoying to keep clean; however, I do think one would come in handy to prevent glassware from chipping, prevent my drain from clogging with food debris and save water, too.

While I’ve been tempted by the Joseph Joseph washing up bowl (which is an Ideal Home Editor’s pick) due to its clever drainage feature, I honestly think a foldable version is better suited to smaller spaces.

Dunelm’s Handy Kitchen Collapsible Washing Up Bowl (£4) example can hold up to 10 litres of water and folds completely flat when not in use. You can whip it out to soak your dishes and take it on trips, and when you’re done, it folds down and tucks away.

My main pain points with a washing-up bowl are that they are bulky and get in the way, which I find highly irritating. And they’re not exactly pretty either. A collapsible bowl deals with both issues. This is how I know it's the right fit for my tiny kitchen.

This summer, I’ve been testing out Febreze’s new Bin Fresheners (£5.99, Amazon), and I’m not lying when I say my bin actually smells good?! They’ve been brilliant at banishing bad smells from my kitchen bins.

In hot weather, it doesn’t take long until rubbish starts to smell and fruit flies flock to your home as a result. While we all should be cleaning a kitchen bin regularly during summer, sometimes this isn’t enough to stop the pong.

So, any product that promises to stop my bin from smelling, I’m more than willing to try. And I was genuinely left impressed with Febreze’s new Bin Fresheners. My bin has never smelled so good.

When I moved into my flat last year, I swapped out a standard plastic waste bin for Habitat’s 55 Litre Twin Compartment Pedal Bin (£70) as its space-saving design was better suited to my small kitchen. It’s proved incredibly easy to clean, and I’ve noticed fewer smells leak through than a kitchen bin.

However, during this year’s heat waves, I have noticed bad smells when I open the lid. So, when I got my hands on the Febreze Bin Fresheners, I was excited to try them. They’re incredibly easy to use. You simply clean and dry the lid, insert the fragrance capsule into the holder and stick it to the lid via its adhesive liner.

And from that moment onwards, there genuinely is a big difference between how my bin smelt before and after. I’d opted for the Outdoor Fresh scent, and every time I opened my bin it smelt almost spa-like. And no, that’s not a sentence I ever thought I’d write.

The fragrance pods last up to 45 days in a row, and in my experience, mask smells for that entire time. Febreze claims the fresheners fight up to 99% of common bin odours. I’m inclined to agree.

Having tested the fresheners out on my regular waste bin, I’m planning to pick up more pods and apply one to my food waste bin. I currently use the bicarbonate of soda hack to stop my food waste bin from smelling, but Febreze’s pods have proved more effective in my experience with my general waste bin.

Of course, you shouldn’t replace good bin hygiene with fragrance. Febreze’s pods are not designed to clean your bin, simply to mask poor smells. However, I have also noticed a reduction in flies this year compared to last year in my kitchen. Flies are attracted to decomposing food and rubbish, so your bin is a hotspot for attracting them. But while my bin now smells great to me, it’s less attractive for flies.

This handy little cleaning buy has earned a permanent place on my list of best cleaning products. It’s managed to make the inside of my kitchen bin smell like a spa retreat, and that is something short of a miracle.

If you’re struggling to get rid of flies this summer, then why not try making a yeast trap? And yes, you can use the affordable, fast-acting yeast you can pick up in the supermarket.

One of the main downsides of summer is the large swarms of flies that try to set up shop in your home and garden. If these buzzing pests are driving you bonkers right now, don’t worry, there are plenty of effective ways to get rid of flies.

This includes making a yeast trap. By mixing sugar and yeast, you can make an irresistible trap flies are drawn to. I asked a pest expert for his top tips on making the trap as effective as possible.

You’ll probably already be aware of the cider vinegar trap, which is excellent at getting rid of fruit flies from your kitchen. But did you know that a yeast and sugar mix works just as well?

‘Take a plastic bottle and cut the top third off. Mix warm water with a tablespoon of sugar and a teaspoon of active dry yeast in the bottom section and stir briefly. Invert the cut top section into the bottle to create a funnel and secure it with tape. The funnel directs flies in but makes it very difficult for them to find their way back out. Place it in the area where you are seeing the most fly activity, near a bin, fruit bowl or outdoor seating area,’ explains Mosh Latifi, Co-Owner, EcoCare Pest Management.

‘The fermenting yeast produces carbon dioxide and warm, sweet-smelling vapour that mimics the signals flies associate with food and organic matter. Flies are drawn in through the funnel opening, become disorientated inside the bottle and cannot locate the exit. The funnel shape is key. It works because flies instinctively fly upward to escape, and the narrowing funnel prevents them from finding the opening they entered through.’

Is this a good method to use?

The yeast and sugar hack is a really easy and affordable trick that works. It is the CO2 in the fermenting yeast that attracts the flies; however, you need to ensure you use a fresh mixture that is actively fermenting. Because of this, you’ll want to replace the trap every two to three days and get rid of your captured flies during this time.

‘If you are catching a significant number of flies, the simplest approach is to dispose of the whole bottle and make a fresh one. If you want to reuse the bottle, seal it in a bag before opening to prevent flies escaping, rinse thoroughly and make a fresh mixture. The whole setup costs pennies to make and replace,’ adds Mosh.

The main drawback of this method is that it doesn’t eliminate the source of your fly infestation. It’s worth looking into ways to stop flies coming into your home and trying preventative measures such as scents flies hate or plants that deter flies to make your home as unwelcoming as possible. You should remove all food sources and attractants such as old sponges and stinky bins. If the problem persists, it is a good idea to consult a professional.

‘It [the method] is genuinely effective, completely chemical-free and costs almost nothing. The limitation is that it catches individual flies rather than addressing the breeding source. If you have a significant fly problem, track down where they are breeding - a drain, a bin or uncovered food waste - and address that alongside the trap. Used together, the trap catches adults while removing the source reduces the next generation,’ Mosh concludes.

If you’re looking for an easy, cheap and most importantly effective way to get rid of flies this summer, give this yeast trap a try.

If you’ve been eaten alive by mosquitoes this summer, a fly screen may be the clever solution worth investing in, especially as experts are saying hotter summers are on the cards.

We all want to get rid of mosquitoes and keep them out of our homes, but due to the weather, I’ll bet you’ve been leaving your windows open overnight, allowing these pests an entryway into your home.

A fly screen acts as a physical barrier to these pests, whilst allowing fresh, cool air into your home. You’ve probably spotted these abroad in warmer climates like Spain, and experts say they are becoming more popular in the UK.

Should you invest in a fly screen?

‘As someone who deals with fly and mosquito infestations professionally, my honest answer is yes, and they are one of the most cost-effective preventative measures available. Most indoor fly problems I attend could have been significantly reduced by basic window screening. The issue is rarely that flies are impossible to stop. It is that homes have no physical barrier at all,’ answers Mosh Latifi, co-owner, EcoCare Pest Management.

And due to the warm weather, insect screen manufacturer Appeal Shading is already seeing an increase in demand for fly screens.

‘Warmer temperatures generally create more favourable conditions for many flying insects, so it's reasonable to expect that homeowners may notice more flies, mosquitoes and other insects during longer, hotter summers. While insect activity will always depend on local weather and environmental conditions, we're seeing more people looking for practical ways to enjoy natural ventilation without inviting insects indoors. A fitted insect screen allows you to keep windows and doors open for fresh air while helping to keep unwanted pests outside,’ said Tina Loveland, senior designer at Appeal Shading

With plenty of different fly screens on offer, there is one for every budget. From a bespoke fitted screen to this Amazon magnetic fly screen (£26.99), and even string door curtains (£8.99, Amazon), it’s easy to find affordable solutions for your home. You can also DIY a fly screen using fly mesh (£8.95, Amazon), and it might be wise to use scents mosquitoes hate around your home to deter them.

‘The best solution for bedroom windows is one that's easy to live with. A bespoke retractable insect screen lets you keep the room cool with natural ventilation overnight, while helping to prevent flying insects from getting inside. Because the screen is tailor-made and colour matched to your window frames, it blends into the home and doesn't detract from the look of the room,’ says Tina.

Mosh says it’s important to invest in a well-rated, quality screen. After all, there’s not much point if it doesn’t work to keep mosquitoes out.

‘For bedrooms, a fitted frame screen with a finer mesh is worth the investment. A bedroom window is often open all night, which is exactly when mosquitoes are most active. A poorly fitted or low-quality screen with gaps at the edges is almost as bad as no screen at all. Magnetic or tension-fit screens that sit flush with the frame and leave no gaps are the best removable option for bedrooms if a fitted screen is not practical,’ he says.

If mosquitoes are plaguing your home a fly screen really can make a big difference. We say yes, it's worth the investment.

During hot weather, I’ve accepted that I need to empty my food waste bin daily or it will start to stink. But waste experts have just put me onto a slightly unconventional method that completely halts the decomposition process. All it requires is freezer space…

Even thinking about bad bin smells is enough to make me gag, so I welcome any method that promises to stop a bin from smelling the heat. Since the introduction of Simpler Recycling rules, every household in England will now have a food waste caddy in their kitchens.

If you’ve been struggling to stop your food waste bin from smelling, you might want to try this hack. Provided you have enough freezer space, all you have to do is put your food waste in the freezer and say goodbye to unpleasant aromas.

Can you put food waste in the freezer?

I’d first spotted this hack in the comment section of a TikTok and instantly baulked at the idea of putting my food waste in with my actual food. But the more I thought about it, the more it made sense - after all, freezing the food would halt the decomposition process - and so I decided to get an expert’s opinion.

‘Storing a food waste bin in the freezer can be a good idea, particularly during hot weather when food waste tends to break down more quickly, leaving unwanted odours. Freezing food waste helps slow bacterial growth, preventing the decomposition process that causes those unpleasant smells. This can make it a practical solution for households that struggle with smells in the kitchen,’ AO’s refrigeration expert, Jade Golding-Gault, explained to me.

‘The main benefit of this hack is it minimises unwanted odours in your kitchen. By keeping food waste frozen, you're pausing the processes that cause smells to develop. It can also help deter fruit flies and other pests that are attracted to food waste, which is particularly helpful in the summer when they are more common. For households with infrequent food waste collections, it can be an easy way to keep kitchens clean and fresh between pick-ups.’

Of course, the main drawback of this hack is that it requires a lot of space. If you have a small kitchen and even smaller fridge/ freezer, this hack might not be suitable for you. For example, I have an under-the-counter fridge/ freezer, and my freezer is one small drawer - so unfortunately, this won’t be a hack I can use.

‘Storing food waste scraps in the freezer takes up valuable space that could be used for real food, especially if you have a small freezer. After taking the frozen waste out of the freezer, there is the chance that the scraps may turn soft and begin to leak water as they warm up on the way to the bin. Wet or heavy waste can also tear thin plastic bags, causing additional cleanup,’ says Ryan Kalia, a waste and bin specialist at Kingfisher Direct.

There are also hygiene considerations to take into account, too. Unwanted odours can transfer into the food in your freezer if your waste isn’t sealed properly, and you should remember it will immediately start decomposing again once you remove it from the freezer - so you should only store it for a limited time.

If you do lack freezer space to try this hack, don’t worry; here are a few small space-friendly methods to stop your food waste bin from smelling.

‘Freezing food waste can be a useful option if you are bothered by odours or pests in your kitchen, but it shouldn't be necessary for every household. Regularly emptying your food waste bin, keeping it clean, using compostable liners and storing it away from direct sunlight can often be enough to keep odours under control. For those with limited freezer space, maintaining a clean food waste bin is usually a more practical long-term solution,’ concludes Jade.

It’s an unusual hack, but one that does work to reduce food waste smells - would you try it?

Coming home from a holiday is a very jarring experience. On one hand, you miss lazing by a pool all day and having someone else do the cooking and cleaning for you. On the other hand, there’s nothing quite like coming home to your own space and bed after a week or two away.

And while I’ve already stressed the importance of the things you should declutter before going on holiday, preparation really is key when you’re gearing up to go on holiday - and your cleaning routine is included in that. After all, getting ahead of the game can soften the crash landing when you get home, and make this jarring experience much more manageable.

But I’m not asking you to deep-clean your entire house from top to bottom while you’re also trying to pack and get your ducks in a row. As Emma Mannion, cleaning expert at Astonish, explains, ‘The goal isn't perfection. It's making sure coming home feels almost as nice as going away.’ So, these are the quick and easy cleaning tasks you should tick off your to-do list before you jet off.

1. Bins

Most of us jet off in the summer holidays, which is prime smelly bin time. And while there are many ways to stop a bin from smelling, it’s hard to do that when you’re not in the country. That’s why you should always empty your bin before going on holiday.

Catherine Green, sustainable cleaning expert at smol, echoes this, saying, ‘Warm weather and closed-up houses make bins particularly prone to bad smells. You absolutely must empty them before you go so food waste doesn't fester, and giving them a quick wash with some warm water and a splash of washing up liquid will keep them super fresh.’

If you want to go the extra mile, it may also be worth popping a bin freshener in your bin while you’re away - like this Bin Buddy Bin Freshener Deodoriser Powder (£4 at Amazon). Make sure you put a fresh bin liner in before you leave, too, as that’ll be one less task to do when you get home.

2. Appliances

Hopefully, you also have regular washing machine cleaning routines - and the same for your dishwasher, too. But if you’re heading off on holiday, it’s well worth giving them some extra TLC and allowing these appliances to breathe while you’re away.

Catherine warns, ‘You should never leave plates with food sitting in your dishwasher for days while you are away! Run a final cycle, empty it out, and leave the door slightly ajar.’ You can use this Finish Dishwasher Cleaner (£10.50 for a pack of 2 at Amazon) to get the job done, or opt for white vinegar as a natural alternative.

‘Also, make sure to double-check your washing machine is empty too, as leaving wet laundry sitting in the drum is a leading cause of mould growth on your fabrics,’ she adds. ‘Once empty, remember to leave the machine door and detergent drawer open to allow it to dry completely.’ Personally, I love to use this Dri-Pak Citric Acid (£4.77 at Amazon) to clean my washing machine.

3. Sinks

We’re all guilty of having a last-minute cup of tea before heading to the airport, but if you leave any mugs, standing water or any other debris in your sink, you could be in for a rude (and very smelly) awakening when you return home. That’s why it’s well worth cleaning your sinks before going on holiday.

Emma explains, ‘Small bits of food, grease and general kitchen grime can leave the room smelling stale if they're left sitting in a sink for a week or more. A quick clean before you head off means you come back to a kitchen that feels fresh and ready to use, rather than one that's immediately adding jobs to your list.’

Thankfully, maintaining a clean and tidy sink isn’t as hard as it sounds, and Emma’s top tip is to ‘put a capful of disinfectant down the plug hole, and it’ll smell fresh when you return!’ This Astonish Zesty Lemon Disinfectant (£8.49 for a pack of three at Amazon) is the perfect scent for a kitchen, too.

4. Bathrooms

When you’re ready and raring to go on holiday, you probably don’t want to be like the people with consistently clean bathrooms who spend hours cleaning them. But it’s well worth giving your bathrooms a quick once-over before you leave.

Emma advises, ‘A quick wipe of the sink, shower and toilet is usually enough to stop watermarks, soap residue and bathroom smells building up while you're away. This should be one of the last tasks you do before you jet off.’ You can use as many of the best cleaning products as you want, too, so you can tailor it around the time you have left.

Personally, I love the spearmint-scent of this Miniml Fast-Action Toilet Cleaner (£3 at Amazon), and as Emma explains, ‘It's amazing how much more enjoyable the welcome home feels when the bathroom is fresh and clean. After a long journey home, little things like that really do make a difference.’

5. Surfaces

I’m on a constant mission to keep dust out of my house, but you don’t have any control over that when you’re on holiday. However, giving surfaces a quick dust and wipe down before you jet off can make a big difference. You need to choose the right type of dusting, though.

Catherine explains, ‘You absolutely don't need to do a stressful deep clean right before a trip. I recommend damp dusting as it traps particles rather than simply moving them around.’ And using a damp duster like this Scrub Daddy Damp Duster (£2.98 at Amazon) is an Ideal Home favourite, too.

If you want to go the extra mile in the kitchen and bathroom, I’d also suggest wiping down your surfaces with an antibacterial spray to ensure that any germs or bacteria don’t spread while you’re enjoying yourself on holiday.

Will you be cleaning these things before you go on holiday?

Lakeland’s £19.99 3-in-1 Mini Vacuum Cleaner was released last year and was so popular that it sold out almost instantly. Then, it sold out again and again. But while stock levels are arguably more stable than they were a year ago, this bargain appliance is still one of Lakeland’s bestsellers.

And as Ideal Home’s Vacuums Expert, it’s my job to test vacuums of all shapes and sizes - with most of them hovering around the £300 mark. But while it’s fair to say that Lakeland’s £20 mini vacuum doesn’t offer the same level of power as the best handheld vacuum cleaners, this small-but-mighty appliance has still become one of my most-used appliances at home. Especially for quick spills.

It impressed me when I reviewed it last year, and since then I’ve recommended it to all my family and friends as the bargain buy they need in their homes. But if you’re still weighing up whether to add one to your cleaning line-up, these are three things I’ve learned about Lakeland’s hugely popular mini vacuum over the past year.

1. It’s ideal for the kitchen

Since buying it, I’ve used Lakeland’s 3-in-1 Mini Vacuum Cleaner in every room of my house and in the car. In fact, I even influenced my sister to buy one specifically for her car so she could suck up the crumbs my messy nephews leave in their wake. Me personally, though? I primarily use mine in the kitchen.

I don’t have any kids in the house, but I am constantly on a mission to be like the people with tidy kitchen worktops, so I’m religiously tidying and cleaning my kitchen sides. And with the 3-in-1 sucking, air dusting and blowing functionalities, the mini vacuum is ideal for larger debris like porridge oats or smaller debris and dust that gets caught in between tiles and appliances. I’ve even used it to blast away cobwebs found in the many nooks and crannies in my kitchen.

I also have the Lakeland Mini Countertop Vacuum, which I tend to use for coffee-machine-related spills, but I find that the larger handheld vacuum’s versatility makes it ideal for quick cleaning on the go. The 0.2L dust canister is also a bit like Mary Poppins’ handbag and holds way more than you’d think, and it’s small enough to fit in a kitchen drawer, which is a major win.

2. The tools are handier than you think

I should note that the power of the Lakeland 3-in-1 vacuum doesn’t compete with bigger handheld models - and certainly not with full-size vacuum cleaners. It won’t tackle floors or upholstery, and it doesn’t offer enough suction or blowing power to tackle trickier, stubborn messes. However, the tools are a major plus point.

When I first bought the £20 vacuum, I did wonder how often I’d use some of the tools, but I’ve actually used them way more than I thought. Especially as there are five to choose from: a crevice nozzle, a crevice nozzle brush, and three blowing/suction nozzles. And all of these can be used by quickly clicking onto the end of the vacuum.

I’ve used these nozzles to blow debris out of my laptop keyboard, dust my plantation shutters, and even had my neighbour borrow the vacuum once to pump up an air bed for her daughter’s sleepover. Because of this, I really do think it’s one of those tools that you can get out when you’re stuck with most dilemmas.

3. Charging can be quite inconsistent

If you couldn’t already tell, I have a lot of love for Lakeland’s 3-in-1 Mini Vacuum and genuinely think that it’s a steal at just £20. But I also have to acknowledge that it is a very cheap appliance, and that often comes with some sacrifices and limitations. For me, this has come in the form of charging inconsistencies.

When I first bought the mini vacuum, I found that the advertised 15-minute run time (which is already very generous for a handheld vacuum) was accurate. The 2.5-hour charge time was also correct. And while I don’t know if it’s due to the USB charging cable or the battery itself, those numbers have started to dwindle as the year has gone by.

This is something reviewers have noted on the Lakeland website, too, as they’ve found that the battery life and charging time have become inconsistent with frequent use. Personally, I don’t find this to be too much of an issue as I’ve simply gotten into the habit of charging immediately after each use, but it does make me wonder how much longer it’ll last. For £20, though, it’s lasted well so far.

Alternatives to consider

I couldn't recommend this mini vacuum more!

With hot weather comes smelly drains, and right now, my sink is stinking up my entire kitchen. To combat this, I’m using an 80p heatwave hack to banish odours in their tracks and keep my drains free of sludge and debris. And these EcoZone Drain Cleaning Sticks from Amazon are a must-have.

Yes, as hot weather accelerates the decomposition of food or debris trapped in kitchen and bathroom pipes, smelly drains are a nuisance during any heatwave. But they don't just stink up the place; they also attract irritating flies that are equally difficult to shift. And while there are many ways to fix smelly drains, the last thing I want to do in this heat is spend my time cleaning.

That’s why I’m turning to enzymatic drain sticks to freshen up my drains, banish odours and keep water flowing freely during the heatwave. They’re the zero-effort solution to smelly drains you didn’t know you needed.

Although I clean my kitchen sink drain regularly, sinks dry out more quickly when the temperature rises. This evaporates any lingering water in the pipes and leaves foul-smelling debris in its wake. Before long, the smell of leftover organic matter, soap scum and nasty sludge permeates throughout the room.

These drain sticks work by using natural bacteria and enzymes to break down this organic matter, which should, in turn, remove the odours. But many of these drain sticks - like the EcoZone ones I’ve previously used in my own home - are also scented. This means that they’ll replace the bad odours with a cleaner, fresher one, too.

The beauty of these sticks is that you simply drop them into your drain and leave them, and they’ll do the hard work for you. They’ll also continue to break down debris and release a scent for around a month - so a whole £10 pack of 12 should last you an entire year.

I’ve tried a few of these sticks in my drains over the years, including Lakeland’s 12 Drain Maintain Fragranced Enzyme Cleaning Plughole Sticks (£7.99 at Lakeland). And while Lakeland’s drain sticks certainly got the job done, I didn’t find that they lasted as long as the EcoZone option.

It seems as though I’m not the only one who appreciates them, either. The EcoZone Drain Cleaning Sticks have over 10,000 reviews on Amazon, with 45% of customers rating them a perfect 5 stars out of 5. A further 21% gave them 4 stars.

However, as with all cleaning tools and hacks, the results aren’t the same across the board. How effective they are depends on the condition of your drains and pipes, and some customers have found that they didn’t completely banish the odour.

So, if you’d rather try something with a much higher success rate, you could also consider using bicarbonate of soda and hot water to neutralise the odours and break down the debris in the pipes. This is also a very low-effort hack, and you might already have the bicarb sitting in your cleaning cupboard.

Whatever option you use, odours coming from your drains are some of the smells you shouldn’t ignore in your house - especially during a heatwave. So, make sure you do something about it.

Don't let your smelly drains get you down!

If you’ve noticed the temperature is about to spike once again at the end of the week, don’t panic. Experts have revealed six jobs to prepare your kitchen in time for the July heatwave.

While the last heatwave left us desperately seeking ways to cool a home, purchasing the best fans and desperately checking to see if the best portable air conditioners were back in stock, this time around, it pays to be prepared.

When you’re hot and bothered, the last thing you want to do is clean a kitchen. So, experts recommend completing these six kitchen tasks now before the weather heats up. You’ll thank yourself later!

1. Clean your kitchen bins

Unfortunately, stinky bins are often synonymous with hot weather. Heat speeds up the process of decay, which can cause some pretty funky smells. So, it’s really important to keep on top of bin hygiene when the weather heats up to avoid attracting flies and making your kitchen stink.

‘The warm weather provides the ideal conditions for bacterial growth and the breakdown of food, which is why kitchen bins are often the biggest culprits for unpleasant smells in the summer,' explains Heather Nixon, sustainability manager at Bio-D.

'Giving your kitchen bin a thorough wash before temperatures rise removes food residue that causes the odours. It’s also worth emptying food waste more regularly during hot spells as this reduces the window of opportunity for odours and bacteria to develop.'

To help reduce odour, you can buy charcoal bin filters for £14.50 at Amazon. These are great at absorbing and neutralising unpleasant odours.

2. Clean and check your extrator fan

Do you remember the last time you cleaned your extractor fan? Well, now is as good a time as any, as these fans can be really helpful when your kitchen feels too hot.

‘Extractor fans can be your friends in heatwaves as they pull warm, humid air out of the kitchen, especially when you're cooking or doing the washing up. Before the heat arrives, give the fan and filter a deep clean to make sure it’s working as efficiently as possible, so it can help stop hot, stuffy air sitting in the room,’ says Angus Struthers, Managing Director at BOXT, heating and cooling specialists.

3. Clean the dishwasher

While your dishwasher is likely to be your best friend during a heatwave, it’s a good idea to give it a clean before the heat hits, particularly if you want to reduce the risk of bad smells.

‘Dishwashers can easily become a hidden source of unpleasant odours during hot weather. The remaining food particles, grease, and moisture from previous cycles can build up around the filter and door seals and combined with higher temperatures, it can make smells that usually go undetected much more noticeable,’ says Heather.

‘Pre-empting this before a heatwave begins by removing the dishwasher filter, wiping around the rubber seals and running an empty maintenance cycle with some rinse aid is an easy way of reducing odours and preventing homes from becoming even more uncomfortable with the heat.’

4. Plan no-oven meals

During a heatwave, my kitchen is a firm no-oven zone. I normally opt for plenty of salads (MOB Fresh has some delicious non-boring salads) during the summer, so I don’t have to use my hob or oven. This helps reduce the amount of excess heat in my kitchen.

In the meantime, it's a good idea to degrease your oven and give the inside a clean to remove any food residue before the heat hits (and causes potential odour), and so it is lovely and clean when the time comes to return to heart

‘We all love a home-cooked meal, but this can actually turn your kitchen into a furnace without you realising. Ovens and hobs are some of the biggest culprits in the kitchen. We’ve all got to eat, but if you can plan a few meals that don’t need the oven, or can be cooked earlier in the day or later in the evening, it can help stop the kitchen from becoming unbearably hot during the afternoon,’ says Angus.

5. Wash cleaning cloths

Lastly, you’ll need to clean your kitchen cleaning cloths ahead of the temperature increase. Not only do they become smelly, but they can harbour bacteria, too. Two things that contradict the whole point of a cleaning cloth!

‘Damp dishcloths and cleaning cloths can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria, and this is sped up when temperatures rise. Before a heatwave arrives, give your kitchen cloths a thorough wash and make sure they're able to dry completely between uses, rather than leaving them scrunched up beside the sink. This is a simple yet effective preventative habit to get into to stop further bacterial and odour build-up,’ says Heather.

6. Give your fridge and freezer a clean and clear out

Now is also the perfect time to clean your fridge and freezer. Bin any old food, and ensure you wipe away any stains or spillages. This helps reduce smells and helps your appliance work more efficiently.

'The warmer it gets, the more strain is put on your fridge-freezer, so getting a few small jobs done before the hot weather hits can help prevent it from breaking down just as you need to stock up on ice cream,' says Nathan Blackler, home insurance expert at Go.Compare.

'First, give your fridge and freezer a quick clear-out. Throw away any out-of-date food, nearly empty jars or gone-off vegetables, and make sure you're not overpacking shelves or blocking the air vents. While a reasonably full fridge and freezer can help maintain a stable temperature, good airflow is key to keeping the appliance running efficiently during hot weather.

'It is also worth giving the fridge-freezer a quick maintenance check. Pull it slightly away from the wall if you can, so there is enough ventilation around the back, and try to keep it out of direct sunlight. Wiping up spills, checking the door seals and making sure nothing is blocking the vents can all help the appliance cope better when the kitchen is warm.'

What you need

How many of these jobs have you ticked off so far?

The recent heatwave has reminded me that food waste bins really can stink, and if you’re keen to reduce odour and discourage flies from your kitchen, the Joseph Joseph Intelligent Waste Caddy (£29, Amazon) does just that.

The Simpler Recycling rules that were introduced earlier this year have meant that every household in England has been (or is in the process of being) issued a food waste bin and caddy. The plastic caddy is used for transporting food waste from your kitchen to the outdoor food waste bin, and is a brown plastic tub that is small enough to sit on a countertop.

However, I’ve found that my council-issued caddy does practically nothing to mask smells - especially during hot weather. And in my effort to get rid of flies from my kitchen, I’m investing in the Joseph Joseph Intelligent Waste Caddy. Here’s why.

Unfortunately for you and me, a stinky food waste bin is like ambrosia for flies. Flies - particularly vinegar flies - are attracted to the smell of decaying food, in particular fruit, which releases a particularly attractive smell when it begins to overferment.

Of course, you should regularly clean your food waste bin to deter flies. By keeping it clean, it is less smelly and therefore less attractive to flies. I find that placing bicarbonate of soda (£2, Amazon) in the base of my bin is a handy trick for absorbing and neutralising bad odours. You can also purchase charcoal bin filters (£10.20, Amazon), which work similarly to absorb odour. Plus, you can even add a few drops of your favourite essential oil to some kitchen roll and place it in the bottom of a bin. Choose a scent that flies don’t like, such as lavender or peppermint.

But considering it's meant to be a scorching summer this year, I want a bin that works as hard as I do. This is why I’ve been considering the Joseph Joseph Intelligent Waste Caddy. Although the Joseph Joseph caddy is a little more than I’d typically spend on a food waste bin, especially as I do get one for free from my local council, its clever design features have convinced me to make the splurge.