Maintaining a clean home during a heatwave can be challenging, but cleaning expert Lynsey Crombie, known as the 'Queen of Clean,' suggests a strategic approach to avoid overheating and exhaustion. Her advice focuses on adapting cleaning routines to high temperatures, emphasizing that a full deep clean is unnecessary for keeping a home fresh and comfortable.
Strategic Cleaning Times and Attire
Crombie recommends starting cleaning tasks early in the morning while the house is still cool. Opening windows to allow fresh air circulation before temperatures rise is crucial. This cooler period is ideal for more physically demanding jobs like vacuuming or changing bed linens. As the day progresses and temperatures climb, even simple cleaning tasks can become draining.
Proper attire is also key. Crombie advises wearing lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable and prevent overheating. Avoiding heavy or restrictive fabrics is essential when cleaning in hot weather.
Hydration and Water Temperature
Staying hydrated is paramount. Crombie points out that many people make the mistake of not drinking enough water while cleaning, which can lead to rapid dehydration due to the combination of heat and physical activity. Keeping a cold bottle of water nearby and sipping regularly, even without feeling thirsty, is important.
When it comes to water temperature for cleaning, Crombie suggests opting for cool or lukewarm water instead of hot. Using boiling water indoors can unnecessarily increase the heat and humidity of the home. For most everyday cleaning jobs, cooler water is sufficient and makes the process more comfortable for the individual.
Avoiding Heat-Producing Methods and Maintaining Airflow
Methods that generate significant heat should be avoided during a heatwave. Crombie specifically advises against using steam cleaners, as they can add extra heat and humidity to the living space. Similar to using hot water, these appliances can make the environment feel stuffier.
Maintaining good airflow is also beneficial. Using a fan can help circulate air and keep rooms feeling fresher. Opening windows early in the day contributes to preventing stale and heavy air.
Focus on Maintenance and Pacing
Crombie advocates for focusing on maintenance cleaning rather than attempting extensive deep cleans during hot weather. Smaller, more frequent tasks can make a home feel cleaner and calmer. Examples include wiping down kitchen counters, freshening bathrooms, regularly emptying bins, quick floor cleaning, managing laundry, and changing towels more often.
She also suggests tackling cleaning one room at a time to avoid exhaustion. This approach allows for breaks between tasks. To manage discomfort, Crombie suggests having cooling essentials nearby, such as a cold flannel, a cooling facial mist, or running cold water over the wrists.
Prioritizing Well-being
Most importantly, Crombie stresses the need to listen to one's body and not overexert oneself. If feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or overly tired, cleaning should stop immediately to allow for cooling down and rest. The goal during a heatwave, she concludes, is not perfection but creating a comfortable and calm home environment without compromising personal well-being.