As we age, the desire for a low-maintenance lifestyle becomes more pronounced. Whether you’re downsizing, renovating, or simply looking to make life a little easier, the design choices you make in your home can significantly impact the amount of time you spend cleaning. Robert Quinton, a home improvement expert and owner of Construction Megastore, has shared his insights on the home features that are notorious time-sinks when it comes to upkeep. We’ve taken his advice and expanded on it to help you slash your cleaning time in half.
Firstly, let’s talk about white furniture. While it may offer a pristine and modern look, it’s practically a magnet for stains, tears, and scratches—especially if you have pets or grandchildren visiting often. Quinton advises against white upholstery due to its high maintenance, suggesting darker colours or stain-resistant, washable fabrics as smarter choices for those seeking a low-maintenance home. Remember, the goal is to spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your space.
When it comes to sofas, the fabric you choose can make all the difference. Quinton recommends materials that are practical and durable, such as stain-resistant fabrics with special coatings or tightly woven structures. These can prevent spills and dirt from penetrating the fibres, making them easier to clean. For pet owners, tightly woven fabrics can repel fur and resist claw marks, which is a bonus. And if longevity is your goal, look for upholstery with a high rub count—anything above 20,000 rubs is considered excellent for durability.
Wall mouldings, such as wainscoting, may add character to your walls, but they’re also notorious for collecting dust. If you’re looking to reduce the number of areas in your home that require dusting, opting for simpler wall finishes is the way to go. The same goes for glass tables and surfaces, as well as black furniture, which show smudges, fingerprints, and dust all too easily. Quinton suggests opaque materials or alternatives like milk glass, which conceal dust and require less frequent cleaning. For furniture, consider lighter or matte finishes that hide imperfections better.
Wall-to-wall carpets are another feature to reconsider. They trap dirt, dust, and stains, demanding frequent cleaning. Hard flooring options like laminate, hardwood, or vinyl planks are not only more durable but also easier to clean. If you love the comfort of carpet, consider area rugs, which can be removed and cleaned with less hassle.
In the kitchen, marble countertops are a luxurious touch but can be a nightmare to maintain, as they’re prone to permanent stains from substances like wine and oil. Quinton recommends durable alternatives or high-quality faux marble, which offers a similar aesthetic with less upkeep.
Lastly, open shelving may be trendy, but it’s a dust collector and requires constant tidying to look presentable. Cabinets with doors are a better choice, as they keep items dust-free and out of sight, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and reorganising.
By making these smart choices in your home design or next renovation, you can significantly reduce the time you spend on cleaning, giving you more freedom to enjoy your golden years. And remember, a home that’s easier to maintain is not only good for your schedule but also for your peace of mind.
What changes have you already made in your home to reduce cleaning time? Are there any features you wish you’d avoided or any clever solutions you’ve discovered? Share your tips and experiences with us in the comments below—we’re all in this together, finding ways to live more and clean less.
Also read: Survey sparks hygiene debate: Are we cleaning our toilets enough?
