I’m a cleaning expert, there’s an area of the home that’s a hive for germs but is often overlooked

IT’S officially National Cleaning Week, set aside to encourage people to keep their surroundings spruced-up.

This year’s theme is Cleaning for Well-Being as a neat and tidy environment can help you have a better mindset.

Having a tidy home can make you feel better

Washing machines can be a hive of hidden bacteria

Today Natasha Brook from expert cleaning and laundry brand Dr Beckmann has shared her top tips, saying: “Creating a clean sanctuary can yield positive benefits for our minds too.”

SYSTEM ADDICT

IT’S great having a proper tidy up and thorough clean of the home - it can feel like a brand new start for the new season.

But the best way to keep your home looking smart is to get a regular system in place - and stick to it.

Natasha said: “When it comes to keeping on top of cleaning your home, a daily routine is important to keep the home sparkling.

“Committing to a more thorough clean once a month will ensure that appliances and forgotten corners get the TLC they deserve, tackling build-up such as dust, mould and limescale.”

SOFA, SO GOOD

THERE are areas of the house that get used every day - but get overlooked when it comes to cleaning.

While we clean the loo and hoover the carpet, the place we sit every night gathers dust and dirt.

Natasha said: “For a truly comprehensive clean, it’s crucial to extend your efforts to often overlooked areas in the day-to-day clean, such as sofas and other upholstery items.

“Start by vacuuming the dust and debris hiding in the cracks, then use a specific stain remover, like Dr. Beckmann’s Upholstery Stain Remover, to eradicate stubborn stains, leaving your furnishings looking and smelling fresh.”

HALL OF DUTY

The surface sweep method interiors pro swears by that makes hoovering way more efficient and leaves your home cleaner

SOME parts of the house get a lot more wear and tear than others.

With kids, animals and everyone else tramping in the front door, entrance-ways can often be a hive of grime and germs. Meanwhile, think about the items you use a lot, like kettles and fridge doors.

The cleaning pro said: “It’s essential to focus on deep cleaning high-traffic areas, such as the hallway, kitchen and bathroom.

“Those zones bear the brunt of daily activity and deserve special attention.

"Pay extra care to frequently used surfaces such as countertops, floors and often touched objects.”

SLEEP WHITE

THERE is no better feeling than getting into clean bedsheets, especially after a long day of cleaning.

But making sure they are as fresh and white as possible can be a struggle.

Natasha said: “Putting all your white bedding into a 60C wash with a fabric whitener such as Dr. Beckmann’s Glowhite or Glowhite ULTRA ensures that your bedding restores and retains its bright whiteness all year round.

“It’s important to make sure you’re using the right detergent and conditioner as many detergents can leave build-up and residue, especially with denser items such as a duvet.”

TOILET FEAT

MAINTAINING a clean toilet is essential for hygiene and preventing the spread of germs, as well as eliminating limescale build-up.

But cleaning the loo is one of the UK’s most hated chores, according to research, so it’s often neglected.

Natasha said: “By cleaning our toilets at least once a week we can remove the accumulation of bacteria, mineral deposits, and stains.

“Using foaming toilet cleaner is a fast and convenient way to deep clean your toilet while leaving behind an ultra-fresh fragrance.

“These cleanse the bowl quickly and thoroughly, without you having to get your hands dirty.”

SCALE DOWN

LIMESCALE is another filthy culprit around the home that can be hidden.

The cleaning guru says: “This is typically in household appliances and showerheads, as well as bathroom fixtures such a sinks and taps.

"Appliances with damp and dark environments, like your washing machine, can create a breeding ground for bacteria and mould that’s not always visible.