Choosing paint colors, tapware, and tiles can be the most exciting aspect of building or renovating a home. However, according to a former professional cleaner, design choices that appear visually appealing in display homes can become significant maintenance challenges after moving in.
Jem, who operated a cleaning business for three years, identified several popular home features that she would avoid in her own new build due to the increased cleaning effort they require. These range from mold-prone bathrooms to fingerprint-attracting walls, with many trendy designs proving impractical for everyday living.
Bathroom Considerations
Bathrooms were highlighted as a key area where popular design trends can complicate cleaning. Jem specifically cautioned against fully freestanding bathtubs. While admired for their aesthetic in luxury renovations and display homes, the narrow space behind these tubs can trap moisture and lack adequate ventilation, leading to mold growth. Cleaning this area often requires awkward maneuvering and may not reach all corners. As an alternative, Jem recommended semi-freestanding baths, which offer a similar modern look while sitting flush against the wall.
Glass shower screens were also on her list of features to avoid. Jem suggested that walk-in tiled showers are a more practical choice from a cleaning perspective. She noted that the metal fixtures holding glass panels can become areas where grime and moisture accumulate, leading to mold issues. Additionally, Jem advised against long strip shower drains, which she found tend to collect hair and debris and often appear discolored. Traditional square floor drains were recommended as a more manageable option. The inclusion of a detachable handheld shower head in showers was also deemed essential for effective rinsing of cleaning products.
Kitchen Maintenance
In kitchens, Jem expressed frustration with freestanding ovens that lack a kickboard. Without this protective base, crumbs, dust, and food scraps can easily fall underneath the appliance. If a freestanding oven is chosen, ensuring a kickboard is installed is crucial to prevent debris accumulation. While some debris may still enter from the sides, blocking the main under-appliance gap significantly reduces cleaning difficulty.
Jem also advised considering higher-quality white sinks, as cheaper versions can stain easily and require frequent scrubbing with specialized cleaning products. For white sinks, she suggested fireclay as a material known for its durability and stain resistance. Gold tapware, while popular, requires careful selection to ensure the finish wears well and does not tarnish over time.
Living Area Choices
Certain features in living spaces also drew Jem's attention. Venetian blinds were singled out as particularly problematic, especially in dusty environments like new housing estates or regional areas. Their horizontal slats are prone to collecting dust, requiring frequent cleaning. Curtains or roller blinds were suggested as more low-maintenance alternatives.
Jem also voiced a dislike for dark-painted walls, calling it a controversial opinion. She explained that darker colors make fingerprints, scuff marks, and cleaning streaks more noticeable. Spot cleaning dark walls can also leave visible marks unless done with immediate and thorough drying. Finally, for flooring, Jem recommended upgrading to water-resistant hybrid or laminate options, suggesting that the initial investment could lead to significant savings on future maintenance costs.