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Written by The McCarthy's Team on January 17, 2022

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There are few things more cathartic than a spring clean. From getting the inch-thick dust out from behind the sofa, to a larger scale clear out of years’ worth of stuff, it can be both deeply satisfying and feel like a mammoth task.

To help you lessen the load, we have put together some cleaning tips and storage ideas to make it feel much more achievable (and even enjoyable).

1/ Try natural cleaning products

Many of us are trying to live a more planet-friendly life, and a quick read of the label on many household cleaning products can highlight some grim warnings about their environmental effects (not to mention all the plastic packaging).

Natural cleaning products are having their time in the spotlight now, and there are some standard cupboard ingredients that pack a powerful punch. Lemon is amazing at getting rid of limescale, for example. Spray some juice onto your shower screen, sponge off after five minutes and it will sparkle like new. Pop a cup of white vinegar in your empty dishwasher a put on a hot wash and it will clear through greasy pipes just as well as any shop bought cleaners. Baking soda also can be used to deodorise a stinky refrigerator.

2/ Let go of what you no longer use

It’s amazing how many sentimental attachments we can create to things in our home.  We’re not saying you should be totally ruthless, but sometimes you do need to be strict with yourself.

Clothes, shoes and accessories can take up a lot of space, so why not get rid of things that you haven’t worn for a year, or that you have grown out of. Take your unwanted items to a charity shop or try selling things through websites like Facebook Marketplace or eBay.

3/ Be clever with storage

The internet is full of advice about how to find storage space in your home – some of it more usable than others.

We think that the simplest solutions are best, and they generally involve making use of the dead space in your home. Under the bed storage is great for hiding away linens. If you have sloping ceilings, then you could think about getting some eaves cupboards installed. Hooks, baskets and bags to hang on the back of doors can also be really useful to keep the little things off the floor, and without breaking the budget.

4/ Consider storage outside your home 

Renting a self-storage unit or container is a great way to make space in your home. Whether you use it as a way of storing seasonal things for certain parts of the year (the beach stuff in winter, or bulky Christmas decorations) or to temporarily get rid of things you’re not using but can’t bear to give away, it is a cheap way to gain serious amounts of space.

Our units start from £6 a week (which is much cheaper and easier than a house extension).

5/ Don’t forget to clean your windows

It’s a small thing, but cleaning your windows makes a huge difference to the light in your home and when the sun does make a rare appearance, you can sit back and enjoy it!

A natural glass cleaning solution can be made using a combination of distilled water, vinegar and a few drops of essential oil.

If you realise that you need a place to store excess belongings once you’ve had your spring clean, then get in touch with our team at McCarthy’s to get a fast free quote.