Lynsey Crombie Recommends Using a Hairdryer on Radiators This Week - OK! Magazine

It's been a fantastic summer – if a tad hot and sticky at times – but sun-drenched days and enjoying the great outdoors generally means household chores are low on the priority list. That's especially true when there are more pressing matters, such as getting back in the groove, a fresh new focus, and reacquainting ourselves with a normal routine.

As Lynsey Crombie, Queen of Clean (@lynsey_queenofclean) and This Morning's resident home expert, puts it: 'September is the perfect month for a reset. The kids are back at school, the seasons are changing, and our homes are ready for a little refresh after the whirlwind of the summer holidays.'

Moreover, a good clean and declutter now will set you up for a calmer, more organised autumn, says Lynsey. Here are her top cleaning jobs to tackle this month.

Start with the children's bedrooms... 'Swap out summer clothes for cosy layers; clear through wardrobes and drawers, and create a clutter-free desk area to help them focus on homework,' advises Lynsey. 'A tidy space really does make for a clearer mind.'

Top tip: Use a basket to scoop up anything that doesn't belong in the room, says Lynsey. 'Decluttering becomes much quicker and less overwhelming.'

After the long break, schoolbags, PE kits and lunchboxes can harbour crumbs, stains and even bacteria, warns Lynsey. 'Give them all a thorough wash, so the kids head into the new term feeling fresh and organised.'

Top tip: Lynsey suggests wiping lunchboxes with white vinegar to get rid of any lingering smells. 'If they're machine washable, pop them in for an easy refresh.'

Before you turn your heating back on, Lynsey advises dusting and vacuuming behind and inside radiators. 'This not only improves efficiency, but also prevents old dust from circulating around your home.'

Top tip: She recommends using a hairdryer on a cool setting to blow dust out of radiator panels, or as a handheld steamer... just remember to put a towel on the floor to catch any mess.

These frequently touched areas accumulate more germs than you might realise, warns our cleaning guru. 'Take five minutes with a cloth and disinfectant spray to wipe them down – it's a quick job with big results.'

Lynsey prefers to use a microfibre cloth with diluted white vinegar for a streak-free shine.

Summer often leaves dirt and dust hiding in the tracks, points out Lynsey. 'Use a small brush or vacuum nozzle to loosen debris, then wipe clean. Your doors and windows will glide more smoothly, and it instantly freshens up your space.'

Top tip: An old toothbrush and a bit of cream cleaner are perfect for scrubbing narrow gaps, Lynsey emphasises.

'Organise stationery, untangle cables, and give desks a proper wipe-down,' Lynsey instructs. 'A clean, clutter-free space makes a huge difference to how children settle back into their routine.'

Top tip: She suggests keeping a small caddy filled with pens, rulers, and notepads at the ready to prevent supplies from scattering all over their dedicated workspace – and the house.

'Pack away summer clutter like beach towels, garden toys and sandals... making room for coats, boots and school essentials,' Lynsey recommends. 'Not only does this make mornings easier, it also keeps hallways and storage areas tidy.'

Lynsey loves: Vacuum-seal bags for storing seasonal items. 'They're a brilliant space-saver.'

By tackling a few simple tasks now, your home will feel fresh, organised and ready for the season ahead, says the TV presenter. 'A little reset goes a long way to making the start of the school year calmer for everyone,' she adds.

The 15-Minute Clean: The quickest way to a sparkling home, by Lynsey Crombie, priced £12.29, is available to buy from Amazon.