Going on holiday is always exciting – and chances are that you're spending most of your time currently packing and dreaming of sunny shores. But while you're focused on getting away, it's easy to overlook a few simple household jobs.
However, from cleaning surfaces to watering houseplants, sorting these tasks before you head off can help prevent problems developing while you're away and make returning home far more relaxing.
Below, we share the household jobs worth ticking off before you lock the front door.
1. Empty household bins
A simple way to avoid unpleasant surprises when you return is to take the bins out before you leave.
'Even small amounts of food waste can create unpleasant smells and attract pests during warmer weather,' says Josh Branigan, furniture and interiors expert at Bed Kingdom. 'Returning to a clean-smelling home helps create a much more welcoming atmosphere after time away.'
Make sure to prioritise the kitchen and bathroom bins, as these are the most likely culprits for bad odours. If your outdoor bin collection isn't due for several days, double-bag any remaining waste that you take outside, in order to help minimise odours and any complaints from neighbours.
2. Change and wash your bedding
Climbing into a freshly made bed after a long trip is always a real comfort – and there's plenty you can do to make this special.
'Washing sheets and changing the bed before you leave means you'll come home to a clean, comfortable sleeping space that's ready for a good night's rest,' says Josh.
For an extra freshness boost, give upholstered headboards and fabric bed frames a quick vacuum or a clean with an upholstery cleaner before you leave. For wooden frames, go round with a microfibre cloth and cleaning spray to remove any dust.
3. Clear out the fridge
A quick check of the fridge before you head away can save you from unpleasant smells and wasted food when you return.
'Check expiry dates and use up any perishable foods before heading away,’ says Josh. ‘Items such as milk, fruit, vegetables, and cooked leftovers can spoil quickly – particularly during summer.'
One of the best ways to reduce waste is by planning meals around what you already have in the days before your trip. Then, make sure to have something easy to put together in the freezer and cupboards when you return, such as pasta and sauce.
4. Water your houseplants
'Give your houseplants a thorough watering before you leave or arrange for someone to check on them to keep them healthy,' says Josh.
It’s also a good idea to move delicate plants away from sunny windowsills and wooden furniture to reduce the risk of heat stress, water damage, or discolouration.
5. Finish the washing up and laundry
They might be the last things you want to think about before jet-setting, but leaving dirty dishes or damp clothes behind is almost guaranteed to create unpleasant smells while you're away.
'Running a final dishwasher cycle and ensuring all washing is dried and put away helps keep the home feeling fresh throughout your trip,' says Josh.
If you need reminders to do so, set alerts on your phone to ensure that you don’t forget.
6. Close curtains and blinds
Drawing your curtains or blinds before you leave does more than keep prying eyes away and your privacy intact.
'Closing curtains or blinds before you leave can help regulate indoor temperatures and protect furniture from prolonged sun exposure,' says Josh.
This simple step can also help reduce fading on flooring, upholstery and wooden furniture during sunny weather.
7. Refresh your main living spaces
Spending just a few minutes tidying the rooms you use most can make your home feel much more welcoming after you return from your holiday.
‘Straightening cushions, folding throws and giving high-traffic rooms a quick tidy may seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference when you come home,’ says Josh.
A quick vacuum of high-traffic areas, such as the hallway and the living room, can also help your home feel instantly fresher.
8. Tidy surfaces and reduce clutter
In the days running up to your departure, take 10 minutes to clear away everyday clutter from worktops, tables, and sideboards, as this can make a surprisingly big difference.
‘Clearing bedside tables, dining tables, hallway surfaces and living room clutter creates a more organised environment and makes it much easier to settle back into your routine when you return,’ says Josh.
After all, coming home to tidy, organised rooms is one of the easiest ways to help that relaxed holiday feeling last a little longer.
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