Expert advice
Ceri Bennett, head of insights at Vax UK (vax.co.uk) looks at how to tackle cleaning problems presented by summer and new pets
Q Can vacuuming regularly help allergy sufferers?
A Your home can harbour a multitude of allergens, such as dust mites and pollen, that build up in the crevices of hard floors and carpet fibres, as well as on blinds, lamp shades and window ledges.
Regular cleaning can help remove these and alleviate allergy symptoms. Dust once a week with a microfibre cloth, and try and vacuum twice a week. Use a vacuum with tools to target hard-to-reach areas such as light shades, blinds and radiator covers.
Pollen and other airborne allergens can be brought inside on clothes and your pet’s fur in summer, so you might need to increase the number of times you dust and vacuum each week to keep on top of it. Hay fever sufferers may want to give their floors a deep clean with a carpet washer once every four-to-six weeks when the pollen count is at its highest, to extract any trapped in the carpet pile. Use it to tackle pet beds, stairs and upholstery, too.
Q What are the benefits of vacuuming the bed?
A Vacuuming your mattress helps remove the build-up of allergens and bacteria living just beneath the surface. Do this every three to six months to keep your mattress fresh.
Q What’s best for cleaning up after a new pet?
A puppy or kitten who isn’t house trained might be prone to having little accidents before they learn where they can go. A portable spot washer, like the VAX Spotwash Home Pet-design, is a must for cleaning up after them on carpets, furniture, and pet beds. It has special tools with antimicrobial protection to leave a clean environment for your family and your pets.
Don’t forget to regularly vacuum and wash their pet beds, as well as other soft furnishings, to help get rid of traces of pet hair and dander.