IF you’re expecting guests over Christmas, you’ll want your home looking its best.
Few of us can afford to call in the cleaners but with a few steps you can give your pad a refresh on a budget . . .
DECLUTTER: With gifts and decorations, the home can start to feel very busy at this time of year, so pack away any clutter in cupboards and drawers.
This includes toys, coats and shoes by the front door, and paperwork and mail left lying around.
Take out as much rubbish as possible now, to avoid a build-up over Christmas.
It’s also a good idea to give the fridge a clear-out. Chuck condiments and sauces past their expiry date and move food that needs eating towards the front of the fridge, so it doesn’t get forgotten.
TREAT STAINS: Get rid of unsightly marks on rugs or carpets. The abundance of food and drink at this time of year can mean spillages are likely.
Treat a stain as soon as possible. Cupboard staple baking soda can be a good way to banish stubborn marks. Mix a tablespoon with a little water to make a paste, and apply to the area you want to treat. Once dried, vacuum up.
WASH YOUR LINEN: Try to empty your laundry basket now, including giving the bed linen a wash. Your clothes will then be ready for Christmas and you won’t have to fuss around with washing machines and drying clothes while guests are around.
CLEAN UP: Most people won’t have time for a deep clean, with everything else going on.
Target a few key areas instead. Vacuum or mop floors, as well as polishing or cleaning windows and mirrors to make the home feel bright and merry. Finish by wiping down sides and giving shelves a light dust.
BRIGHT SPARK: Light candles to make your home feel more inviting and sophisticated.
Look for festive scents to create atmosphere.
IT is not too late to show off the festive spirit with this LED Santa, down from £28 to £20 at B&Q.
SAVE: £8
ENHANCE your best features with this Sleek highlighter palette, £5.99 from lookfantastic.com.
UNTIL Christmas Eve, Co-op members can bag Les Pionniers NV Champagne for £15 a bottle, down from the usual price of £21.50.
GIVE your outfit a stylish touch with this borg-lined jacket, £69.99 from Zara. Or try Matalan’s black aviator jacket, for £31.50.
SAVE: £38.49
NEED a spare pair of reading glasses? These specs with case are in Lidl from today with a £1.99 price tag.
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