1 Work from the top down, inside to outside, to avoid getting what you just cleaned dirty again

2 Do one room, even one area of one room, at a time to avoid unfinished jobs. The satisfaction of seeing one room sparkle will make the hard work feel like it’s worth the effort.

3 When tidying, reduce trips around the house by temporarily depositing items in one spot en route to but not at their final destination.

4 Do two things at once. While laundry is going, scrub the shower stall.

5 Make small repairs. If you’re not handy, hire someone.

6 Invest in good rubber or vinyl gloves to protect your skin and nails.

7 Dust before vacuuming or cleaning the floor. Try feather or lambswool dusters, especially extendable ones for reaching above window and door casings and into corners. Household rags are invaluable for jobs requiring a damp cloth – natural fibres work best