1. Airing and refreshing duvets, pillows and cuddles
Wash your bedding regularly, but also give it an occasional day of outdoor exercise. When there is a real frost, allergens and dust mites in fabrics air out and freeze much faster. Hang duvets, pillows and soft toys outside for a few hours (make sure they stay dry and protected from moisture). Have a sunny, freezing day? Then that's the perfect time.
Tip: also put your mattress in the fresh air for a while if you can. Can't hang it outside? Regular washing at at least 60°C also helps.
2. Treat carpets with snow
Snow is a surprisingly good natural cleaner. Place a rug - if possible and depending on material - in the snow right side down for a while. The cold and shaking makes dirt and many allergens disappear better. Then pat the rug thoroughly and let it dry well inside.
Please note that some delicate or glued carpets can be damaged by moisture or freezing. Check material advice or consult a professional.
3. Clean windows for more light
In winter, we actually benefit from as much daylight as possible. Dirty windows reduce light. Clean your windows regularly, paying particular attention to condensation stains and salts that can build up in winter. Preferably work on a mild, dry day (not in full frost outside, to avoid freezing detergents).
Tip: start inside and work outwards; use microfibre cloths and a good squeegee for streak-free windows.
4. Ventilate well, even when it's cold
It's tempting to keep windows closed when it's cold, but fresh air is essential - not only for your comfort, but also to prevent moisture problems and mould. On frosty days, the outside air is often drier and ideal for doing short, vigorous ventilation rounds: open windows fully for 5-10 minutes and then quickly close them again.
5. Clean the fridge and freezer thoroughly
On a hard freezing day, you can temporarily put the contents of fridge or freezer outside (in sealed crates and protected from animals and wetness) while you clean or defrost appliances. Because it is cold, food will safely stay cold longer. This makes thorough cleaning and defrosting a lot more pleasant and efficient.
Warning: always check the temperature and cover fragile packages properly. Use this method only when there is a reliable, persistent frost and follow food safety rules.
In brief
Winter offers some unexpected advantages for household chores: fewer allergens, natural cleaning from snow and favourable ventilation times. Not every material or job is suitable - always check the product advice and feel free to ask for advice if in doubt.