Save time and money with these useful hacks for our most dreaded cleaning tasks
Moving house is always a hassle. While a landlord can’t withhold your bond on the grounds that your house has not been cleaned, it is important that you leave the property reasonably clean and tidy. If you’ve got a few problem spots you’d like to fix, this round-up of cleaning hacks will help you get your place in tip-top shape in no time! If you’re still feeling unsure, make sure you head over to tenancy.govt.nz for more information on your renting rights and responsibilities.
1. Cleaning your walls
Check your walls thoroughly for any marks or scuffs. Most of the time these will come off quickly and easily, the CHUX Magic Eraser is a godsend if they’re a bit stubborn. If they won’t budge, try to find an emulsion of the same colour.
If you’ve been hanging shelves and pictures around the place, make sure you check your rental agreement and see whether you were permitted to do so. If you’re unsure, buy a patch filler, they only set you back around $10 and are easy to paint over.
2. The Fridge
It’s the one appliance that’s always working hard to keep food fresh and is often subject to spills, stains and sticky fingers. A clean fridge is a happy one, so see our guide on how to give it a deep and satisfying clean.
3. Tiles
Whether it’s your kitchen splashback or bathroom tiles, stubborn dirt and grime can be tough to remove. Follow these simple steps to find out how to get your surfaces sparkling!
4. Windows
Although you’re not required to clean your exterior, first impressions count and giving your windows a wash is always a good idea. If you’re wanting a thorough step-by-step guide for refreshing your exterior check out our list here.
5. Curtains
Our trusty curtains hang around all year long doing their job, but we often forget to give them the love they deserve – and probably desperately need. Your Home and Garden chatted with specialists from Harvey Furnishing and uncovered some top tips for how to clean curtains.
6. Grout between tiles
The grout between our tiles can get really filthy with mould and dirt – which can be especially noticeable on white tiles. If you need a bit of extra help, take a look at our step-by-step guide for removing grime from grout.
7. Don’t forget the carpets
While you’re not required to steam your carpet to get your bond back, carpets can experience a significant amount of wear and tear. If there are a few spots you want to make disappear, steam cleaners are a great way to get your carpet looking brand new. If you don’t own one they are very easy and affordable to rent. After your carpet has dried – give it a thorough vacuum and if necessary scrub with a wire brush to remove any excess fibres.
Top tip
Take photos of everything, such as power cords in the back of the TV, so that re-cabling – when you arrive at your new home – is straightforward. Small steps like this can save you a lot of time in the future – so get snap happy!
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