Britain’s top cleanfluencers, brought together as the Shine Squad at the Clean & Tidy Home Show, have revealed their top housework hints and hacks that can help homes cut their energy bills in the face of rising prices.

Hold on the hot water with better products

While keeping kitchens clean and bathrooms brilliant often involves using plenty of hot water, many are equally as effective at making surfaces sparkle with cold water – meaning you can save your boiler for showering and heating instead having to tip it down the sink. @cleanwithlucy says: “You really don’t need hot water for everything, particularly for rinsing”.

Equally, there are clothes washing products designed for use at low temperatures. @clean_with_jen says: “There are washing powders available that give the best performance at 20°C, so they’re ideal for using less energy while keeping your clothes clean.”

Don’t let heat go to waste

You shouldn’t put on your radiators just to dry clothes – but when you do have them on to heat your home, make the most of them. @cleaning_at83 says “I stretch a king size sheet out from the radiator to hold the heat over a clothes rack, so none of the energy is wasted.”

Take a traditional approach

Vacuum cleaners, powered mops and electric scrubbing brushes are brilliant for keeping your home spotless – but old-fashioned cleaning skills can squish those bills. A dustpan and brush will be fine for smaller jobs, while sustainable cleaners can make your floors sparkle without the need for scrubbing.

Dust down your fridge

Your fridge keeps food cold by dispersing heat through the coils at the back – and because they’re out of sight, it’s easy for them to get coated by a warm blanket of dust, making them less efficient. Temporarily turn off the fridge, so you can then safely use a telescopic duster to flush out the fluff.

Maximise your appliances’ potential

While many homes will rely on the washer, dryer and dishwasher, it’s easy to find ways to cut the costs with clever products and planning. “Most washing machines and dishwashers have an eco mode that might take longer but needs less energy overall, so they’re ideal if you don’t need your dishes or clothes straight away,” says @hall_at_home. “Plus, tumble dryer balls can cut down drying time, and colour catcher sheets mean you can mix more clothes to make sure you always wash full loads.”

Flush out your filters

Appliances such as washing machines, tumble dryers and dishwashers all have filters that can get clogged with fur, food and fluff, making them less efficient. Use a sustainable cleaning solution to scrub out the inside and help slash those bills.

Don’t stand by if you want to save

With every little red light adding to your bill, switching off electrical items around the house at the mains when they’re not in use will lead to surprisingly significant savings. @a_welsh_spring_gleam says: “If you don’t need it, don’t leave it on! All those different electrical appliances around the house soon add up if you’re not careful.”

About the Clean and Tidy Home Show

The Clean & Tidy Home Show features celebrities, cleanfluencers and experts, showcases the latest cleaning, organising, home and self-care products, and brings together a growing community of homemaking enthusiasts.

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