FRESH FEEL
I’m a cleaning expert – here’s how to cut costs on spring cleaning with five simple hacks
Plus the one trick that actually helps you MAKE money from your spring clean
WITH March marking the official start of spring, many of us have already started to freshen up our homes with a good, deep clean.
The arrival of the new season brings with it brighter days and a fresh start, so it's no wonder that many homeowners consider this to be the ideal time to embrace a cleaner, more organised space.
5
5
5
But it might be a little daunting when you start to think about all the cleaning products you'll need to pick up.
Luckily, experts have revealed that a thorough spring clean doesn't have to break the bank.
Katy Phillips, a product expert at price comparison website , has said there are plenty of clever, cost-effective ways to spruce up your home while keeping costs low.
And in a bid to help, she has shared her top five tips for spring cleaning your home on a budget.
READ MORE FABULOUS
Her clever hacks mean that we can make sure that our homes still feel fresh and inviting without unnecessary expense.
Katy said: "With these budget-friendly spring cleaning tips, you can refresh your home, save money, and create a more organised space without unnecessary spending.”
1. DIY cleaning solutions
You don't need to spend fortunes on expensive products to get your home sparkling clean, Katy explains.
She says it's time to ditch the pricey products and take a look at what you've already got in your cupboards.
Most read in Fabulous
The expert advises: "Skip over the expensive cleaning products and make your own using household staples. White vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can tackle everything from limescale to greasy surfaces.
"Mix equal parts water and vinegar for an effective all-purpose cleaner, or create a paste with baking soda and water to scrub stubborn stains.”
All the cleaning jobs you MUST do ahead of the spring clean - as expert reveals the 10 grossest spots in YOUR home
2. Declutter and sell unwanted items
Most of us hear 'spring clean' and associate it with just cleaning - but there's a lot more to it than that.
It also involved decluttering the space and getting rid of things that we no longer need or want.
But Katy suggests that rather than just binning our unwanted items, we should try selling them and get some extra money from them.
She said: "Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying - it’s an opportunity to declutter and make some extra cash!
"Sell unwanted clothes, furniture, or electronics on second-hand marketplaces like Vinted, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace.
"Not only will you free up space, but you’ll also put money back in your pocket."
3. Repurpose & upcycle
It can be tempting to pick up a few new storage solutions when you're going for a fresh new feel.
But Katy has said that we should take a look at what we already have and see if there is anything that we can use that will give us the same different and fresh feel without spending a penny.
She explains: "Instead of buying new storage solutions, get creative with what you already own.
"Glass jars make stylish pantry organisers, shoe boxes can be transformed into drawer dividers and old t-shirts can be cut into reusable cleaning cloths - saving money and reducing waste.”
5
4. Target high-impact areas
Before you go focusing on every nook, cranny and corner of your home, Katy suggests that you target high-impact areas first.
She suggests: "Focusing on key areas like carpets, sofas, and curtains.
"Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and upholstery to absorb odours before vacuuming, effectively removing dust and allergens.
"For curtains, hang them in the bathroom during a hot shower.
"The steam will naturally smooth wrinkles and freshen them up, all without spending a penny."
8 spring updates you should make right now to refresh your home
WHILE a spring clean should be on the to-do list, it's not the only effort you can be making to refresh your space.
Interiors expert Faye Leeming, Brand Manager at , has shared her eight essential spring interior updates you should make right now to invigorate your home.
- Incorporate nature - “Spring is all about life and growth, so get the colours of nature - greenery and flowers - into your home."
- Brighten-up - “Swap out those dark, wintry tones for lighter, brighter hues. Think pastels or bold colours that make a statement."
- Lighten-up - "Swap out thick blankets for lightweight throws, sheets and change your bedding to lighter materials like linen or cotton."
- Rethink your window treatments - "Increased exposure to daylight has been shown to have positive effects on mood and productivity".
- Update your accessories - "In spring, consider incorporating floral patterns, botanical prints, or even bird motifs."
- Create an outdoor retreat - "Even small spaces can benefit from a couple of outdoor chairs and a table, or a hammock for relaxing.”
- Rearrange your layout - "Consider rearranging your furniture to better suit your spring lifestyle."
- Deep clean and declutter - "A thorough clean and decluttering session can transform your space more than any decorative update."
5. Energy-efficient refresh
We might not realise it, but our appliances can work harder if they are surrounded by dust.
So Katy says if we think about energy-saving updates and spaces while we're cleaning, then we can save money in the long term.
She said: “While spring cleaning, consider small energy-saving updates that will save you money in the long run.
"Dust and debris can make appliances work harder, so clean behind your fridge and other large appliances to improve their efficiency and reduce energy consumption.
Read More on The Sun
"Swap out old incandescent bulbs for energy-efficient LED alternatives, which last longer and use up to 90 per cent less electricity.
"If you rely on a tumble dryer, setting up a washing line or drying rack can cut down on energy costs — air-drying your clothes, especially in warmer weather, is a simple way to lower your bills while being more eco-friendly.”
5
Topics