Ask the designer
Q I know it’s a tradition and all, but do I really need to Spring Clean my home?
A. With modern electric vacuum cleaners, static-charged dusters and cleaning products, we no longer need to throw open our windows to beat the dust from the rugs like our grandmothers. But spring cleaning is a good idea anyway because it gives you a chance to check your house for signs of wear and tear, such as mold, cracked window panes or peeling paint — and repair it before it gets any worse. So get those rubber gloves on.
Q. Where should I to start the spring cleaning process?
A. First things first — declutter. Whether it’s an overflowing wardrobe or under the stairs, start with the area that you think will most benefit from dejunking. A proper purge can take a few hours — especially if you start reminiscing over old photos or letters — so allocate one evening for each area on your list. Arm yourself with four large plastic boxes and sort items into essentials that you use regularly, rubbish or recycling, items that can be sold on and keepsakes. Once categorised, invest in proper storage for your remaining belongings. Some smart storage solutions include vacuum bags for your winter clothes, door-mounted storage racks and magazine files. Try IKEA, Howards Storage World or Argos to help declutter your home.
Q. Any tips on the cleaning process?
A. To make the task less daunting, start by making a checklist. Upholstery and carpets really only need to be deep cleaned every couple of years. For synthetic fabric, you can rent a carpet extractor — try www.azhire.ie, but for more expensive fabrics like wool it’s best left to the professionals. Curtains can be either hung out on the line to fresh up or hoovered on a very low setting and a rubber-edged squeegee will clean windows in seconds. Clean out the fridge with a warm water and baking soda solution, using a toothbrush to scrub crannies. Unscrew lightbulbs and clean with a damp microfibre cloth, taking care to avoid the metal base, or use a telescopic duster for recessed lighting. Start as you mean to go on by restocking your cleaning supplies and making a rota of household chores for all the family to keep your home clean.
Q. How can I give my newly spotless home a bit of spring energy?
A. On-trend floral print is perfect way to beat the winter blues on a budget. This season’s florals are bold but not gaudy — think raspberry pink, duck egg blue and moss green. Designers are also mixing and matching floral prints with other patterns, like dots and stripes in the same colour scheme. Add some petal power to your living room with floral wallpaper or wall art decal, silk floral print cushions, flower-shaped mirror or large floral print rug. In the bedroom, pair crisp white bed linen with a floral duvet set and complete with a vase of fresh-cut flowers and scented candle such as Irish-made Max Benjamin White Lilies by the bedside. Avoca, Cath Kidston and Laura Ashley are among the brands famous for their florals.
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