Everyone has certain chores around the home they’d happily avoid. Some tasks feel repetitive, others take longer than expected, and some never seem to stay finished for long. The good news is that many of the most hated household chores can be made easier with the right approach, and sometimes with the right help.

Here are some of the most hated household chores, along with easy ways to make them more manageable.

1. Cleaning bathrooms

Bathrooms require regular cleaning, which is why the task can feel never-ending.

Soap marks, water stains, and daily use quickly accumulate.

• Cleaning lightly and frequently makes a significant difference.
• A quick wipe of sinks, taps, and shower screens every few days helps prevent more intensive cleaning later.
• Keeping cleaning products nearby makes it easier to tackle marks as they appear.

2. Washing dishes

Washing dishes is a task that always returns. Even when the sink is empty, it rarely stays that way for long.

Start with glasses and plates first, then save pots and pans until last. This helps keep the water cleaner and speeds up the process.

Also, washing as you cook can prevent the sink from filling up.

3. Laundry

Laundry often feels like an endless cycle, especially in busy households. Sorting, washing, drying, and storing all take time.

Doing smaller loads more often can help keep things manageable. Folding clothes right after they dry also prevents piles from building up.

4. Dusting

Dust settles quickly, especially on shelves, skirting boards, and surfaces that are not used every day.

• Using a microfibre cloth helps trap dust rather than spread it around.
• Working from top to bottom also makes the task easier, as dust falls onto surfaces you have not yet cleaned.

5. Vacuuming the stairs

Stairs can be awkward to clean and often take longer than expected.

• Using a handheld vacuum or hose attachment makes the job quicker.
• Cleaning one side at a time also makes it easier to keep your balance while working.

6. Taking out the bins

Taking the bins out isn’t hard, but it’s easy to forget at the last minute.

• Maintaining a simple routine helps.
• Empty indoor bins regularly and check collection days so rubbish doesn’t accumulate.

7. Cleaning out the fridge

Cleaning the fridge can seem like a big task because everything needs to be removed first.

• Try to do a quick check each week.
• Discard anything past its best-before date
• Wipe shelves before replacing food.

A deeper clean is simpler when the fridge isn’t full.

8. Washing windows

Windows are often left until they really need cleaning because streaks can make the task frustrating.

• Using warm water with a small amount of washing-up liquid and a microfibre cloth helps remove dirt quickly.
• A squeegee can help leave the glass clear without marks.

9. Ironing clothes

Ironing takes time and often feels endless.

• Hanging clothes immediately after drying can help reduce creases.
• Ironing smaller batches more frequently can also make the task seem less tiring.

10. Decluttering

Decluttering can feel overwhelming if you try to do too much at once.

• Instead of tidying an entire room, focus on one drawer or surface at a time.
• Short sessions are easier to manage and help you notice progress more quickly.

Bonus Task: Looking after your lawn

Outdoor jobs can be just as time-consuming as indoor cleaning. Keeping your lawn healthy requires regular maintenance, and achieving good results is not always straightforward without the right knowledge.

Professional lawn care can help ensure your garden looks its best. TruGreen offers specialised lawn treatments that promote better growth, colour, and overall health throughout the year.

Cleaning carpets and upholstery

Carpets, rugs, and sofas gather dust and dirt over time, even when they appear clean. Properly deep-cleaning them often requires equipment that most households don’t have.

Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning can help revitalise your home and eliminate accumulated dirt. ServiceMaster Clean offers specialised cleaning services to keep carpets and furniture looking their best.

When it makes sense to get help

Some chores take more time than most people have. When work, family, and everyday life are busy, keeping on top of cleaning can become difficult.

That is why many households choose Merry Maids home cleaning services. Regular cleaning support helps keep your home clean and comfortable, without you having to spend your free time on the jobs you dislike most.

Find your nearest Merry Maids business, book a clean online or call 0800 021 3072 today.