Try wiping with kitchen paper moistened with cooking oil, then wash in hot soapy water. Or wipe with lemon juice, a natural bleaching agent, leave a few minutes then wash off.

Don’t use conditioner: it builds up and reduces absorbency.Soak in Calgon solution; rinse thoroughly. Wash as normal using the maximum recommended amount of detergent.

If flies have left marks on lampshades, run a warm bath and add washing powder. Soap the surface and rub stains from both sides with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse, attach string to the holder and drip-dry over the bath. Finish with a hairdryer.

It’s Friday – and whatever you’ve planned for your weekend ahead – here are some easy ways to hold your balance.

Get Ready for Saturday night

Easy ways to hold your balance

If the bottom of your bath has a roughened surface to prevent slipping, clean it by rubbing with a wet pumice stone. You’ll have slurry – just hose it down.

We’re supposed to pull out the fridge regularly to clean behind, but how many of us do? Compromise by covering a broom handle with a damp cloth, secure with a rubber band and have a good old delve – you’ll be amazed at what you unearth.

Pour a little hot water into the dip and, with a fork’s tines, gently tease the pile until it stands up nicely alongside the rest of the carpet.

If you have a piano worth looking after, position it away from heat, and keep the lid closed to stop dust getting inside. Ivory keys naturally yellow over time; newer keys will be plastic. Either way, clean with a just-damp chamois leather.