Autumn cleaning is definitely a thing in Malta: 5 tips to get your house in order after summer
The weather in Malta is pretty unpredictable, and even though it may seem like an excuse to those of you accustomed to a cooler climate, summer here DOES leave you reluctant to move, let alone tidy up the house. And while the daily, weekly and monthly errands still need to be done during the hot months, the onset of autumn opens the floodgates to a surge of energy. A rush that can easily be channelled into doing things you've been putting off for ages: it's time for some ‘autumn cleaning’!
Clear your wardrobe with the 333 Project
A tidy wardrobe makes getting dressed easier - if there’s less to choose, you’ll be able to see a clearer picture. If this is something you struggle with, try the 333 Project, where only 33 items of clothing (including accessories) can be worn for three months, updating your collection with every seasonal change - even if the Maltese weather restricts it ever so slightly!
Give your oven an eco-friendly clean
This might be on your weekly (or monthly) kitchen clean-up list, but a thorough oven cleaning is still probably needed. Opt for an eco-friendly cleaner like white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda and remember to air out the oven before cooking your next timpana! Bake some old spices to get rid of the cleaning smells.
Bring that duvet out!
As the sun takes a well-deserved break, your nights will get a little chilly, so your duvet will need to come out of hibernation. Local temperatures keep most blankets and covers tucked away in storage for a good portion of the year, so this is a good day for duvets all across the country!
Re-shuffle your outdoor area
As the BBQs, roof furniture and umbrellas are neatly stacked away, your rooftop or outside area will clear up drastically, giving you ample space for an autumn-come-winter roof garden. Pick resilient plants that can tolerate bouts of rain and a tidal amount of sunshine.
De-clutter your washroom for an easy winter
Autumn is THE most stressful season for the family washroom. The summer kit has begun to feel inadequate, but the winter apparatus has not yet been transferred, and gas heaters and Christmas decorations are still hiding away. So it's time to bite the bullet and roll your sleeves up. Organise your stuff, de-clutter and donate anything you may not need to your local charity shop.
Every Maltese home needs a pick-me up every now and then - autumn is a great time to shuffle your belongings, take stock and get ready for the cosy season ahead.