With warmer weather approaching and the first day of spring on 20th March, many households across the UK are beginning seasonal cleaning and home refreshes.
Spring offers a chance to revitalise properties. However, Alex Morrisey, a roofing expert at Best Roofers, has warned that some popular cleaning habits may unintentionally cause damage. These include the viral Lüften trend, loft clearouts, and heavy laundry routines.
The Lüften trend, widely shared on TikTok and Instagram, involves opening windows for extended periods to improve airflow and reduce damp. Often referred to as “house burping,” the practice can help freshen indoor spaces.
However, prolonged ventilation may lead to hidden problems. Leaving windows open for long periods makes it harder to maintain indoor temperatures, reducing energy efficiency and increasing heating costs.
Some people also leave windows open overnight, which can allow insects and pests inside. Spring is a particularly active time for spiders and other creatures emerging from winter.
Experts recommend limiting ventilation to 15–20 minutes during warmer daylight hours to reduce the risk of pests and energy loss.
Spring cleaning often includes decluttering loft spaces, but improper storage can affect ventilation and insulation.
Overcrowding a loft can block airflow around insulation, increasing the risk of mould, mildew, and fungal growth. Moving items may also dislodge insulation, reducing its effectiveness and contributing to heat loss and higher energy bills.
Heavy items, such as boxes of books, can strain ceilings over time and lead to sagging or cracks, particularly in older homes.
Lofts are also prone to damp conditions. Storing delicate fabrics or clothing in these spaces can result in staining, yellowing, or damage.
A careful review of loft contents and proper storage can help protect both belongings and insulation.
Larger laundry loads are common during spring cleaning, but overloading washing machines can lead to mechanical problems.
Excess weight places strain on the motor and bearings, which may loosen or fail over time. It can also prevent proper drainage, leaving clothes wetter than usual.
Drying damp clothes indoors increases moisture levels, encouraging mildew and mould growth. Overloading can also reduce washing effectiveness, resulting in creased clothes that need to be washed again.
Homeowners can check capacity by ensuring a hand fits comfortably inside the drum alongside the clothes and that items can move freely during a cycle. Unusual noises or longer wash times may indicate overloading.
Alex Morrisey said: “Spring cleaning is a great way to refresh and protect your home, but certain habits can unintentionally do the opposite, especially when it comes to structural damage, heat loss, and higher energy bills.
“Many homeowners focus on visible areas like floors and surfaces, but neglect how their cleaning routines impact ventilation, insulation, and moisture levels. Over time, these small mistakes can lead to greater issues like damp, mould, and roof deterioration. This is why it’s important that you’re taking a mindful approach to your spring cleaning this year.
“Another common mistake is improper clothes storage. As well as keeping delicate materials and valuable clothing away from the loft, all clothes should be stored in breathable containers with added moisture absorbers to prevent the build-up of mould.
“Ensure that all your winter clothes are properly cleaned and thoroughly dried before being stored away for the warmer months. This mitigates the risk of mould, damage, and odours caused by incorrect storage.
“Always make sure that you’re taking a careful approach to deep spring cleans and that you’re using the correct cleaning equipment. For example, using harsh abrasive chemicals like bleach on your walls can quickly create discolouration and strip away protective coatings.
“Where possible, always opt for gentler cleaning solutions like white vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda.”
This information was provided by roofing experts at Best Roofers.