A survey reveals that one in 10 Britons confess to not cleaning certain areas of their homes for over a year.
The poll, which surveyed 2,000 adults, discovered that the most overlooked areas during cleaning are behind and underneath furniture, as well as inside cabinets and drawers.
One in four confessed that their curtains are among the most neglected parts of their home, while 9% admitted the same about their sofas. Shockingly, 4% revealed they had left their bedsheets untouched for ‘ages’.
Two-thirds often procrastinate on cleaning tasks because they believe it will be time-consuming, while others avoid it if it’s difficult to reach or they lack motivation. However, a third simply don’t think those areas need to be cleaned as frequently.
A spokesperson for Febreze Fabric Refresher, the company that commissioned the research, stated: “Knowing how to freshen larger items can be tricky, especially those you can’t get into the washing machine.”
“There’s a whole number of reasons why we put off tasks like this, and more often than not, we make them bigger in our minds than they actually are. But using the right tools to get it done can make it an easier job than you think.”
“For example, a quick spritz of the curtains or sofa cushions can save you a job of having to take them to the dry cleaners, leaving them feeling fresher for longer, smelling great and with odours eliminated.”
The study also revealed that 34% confess the lack of cleaning in some of the most overlooked areas has sparked tension in their homes. However, a whopping 70% confessed they often overestimate how long certain household chores will take.
A quarter manage to clean the most neglected parts of their home every few months – while a shocking 13% admit to only addressing those tasks once a year.
The time dedicated is significantly less when compared to the areas of the home which receive the most attention. Yet, one in four of those surveyed, always experience a sense of achievement when they’ve tackled a challenging clean.
A representative for Febreze Fabric Refresher commented: “While it might not always be at the top of everyone’s to-do list, there can be a great sense of reward by accomplishing difficult tasks in your day.”
“And sprucing up your home can certainly fit that bill, our research indicates that taking on something challenging gives people a sense of pride and can boost their self-esteem.”
“Ensuring you’re prepared for the task at hand can go a long way, helping to make it much more manageable.”