However you’re spending Christmas this year, maximise the festive feeling with this simple checklist to prepare your home for the holidays – and then put your feet up and enjoy a mince pie, guilt-free!
Spruce up before you decorate
A clean home makes the perfect backdrop for your Christmas decorations. Tall trees and tinsel may draw your attention higher up than normal, so take the opportunity to remove often-missed dust and cobwebs from light fittings, ceilings and high shelving with your vacuum cleaner’s wand and dusting attachment. Make sure floors are free of clutter, dust and pet hair before you put up the all-important tree!
Give your kitchen a deep clean
It may not be your favourite job, but you’re likely to be preparing a lot of delicious food in the kitchen over the festive season so it makes sense to give it a deep clean before you start. Clear all small appliances from worktops and give your counters a good clean with antibacterial spray, then tackle the hob, microwave and inside the oven. Finally give the floor a good vacuum and mop, and finish by wiping those overlooked areas such as cupboard handles and light switches. All done!
Plan your present buying (and delivering!)
Whether you’re just exchanging gifts with close family or have a long list of people to buy for, planning what you’ll buy and how much you’ll spend is key to stress-free gift giving. Don’t forget to factor in delivery timelines and last posting dates for Christmas! Homemade gifts can be cost-effective and extra-thoughtful. If you’ll be dropping off gifts yourself, rather than relying on Father Christmas, plan a route in advance and check your recipients will be home.
Dial up the Hygge factor
According to Visit Denmark, the Danish art of hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) is a little hard to explain, but roughly translates to “cosiness” and creating a warm atmosphere – the perfect antidote to long, dark nights. Now is the perfect time to stock up on your favourite hot drinks and snacks, light a candle and cosy up with a good film or book. Merry Christmas!
