Ironing

• Gather all equipment required.
• Choose your equipment carefully.
• Some people may prefer cordless irons.
• Choose an iron cover that will contrast with most items being ironed. Check your iron and ironing board cover regularly for wear and tear.
• If you are using a steam iron, pour in the water before plugging in the iron. Place your finger in the water inlet and then slowly pour cold water in. Use the iron water measure provided.
• The temperature guide on your iron can be marked with bump-ons or other tactile or visual markings.
• Take time and be organised; for example, have hangers for shirts near to hand.
• Consider using an iron guard.
• Use the edge of the ironing board to guide the iron to the garment and then back to the stand.
• Use your left hand (if right handed) as a guide, moving the garment along, followed by the iron.
• Iron slowly and change direction of ironing.
• The part of the garment that has been ironed will feel warm to touch.
• Have a burn spray close to hand.
• Always unplug the iron when it has to be left unattended or when ironing is finished.
• Consider using a wall-mounted iron holder so that the iron can be put away and does not have to be left standing to cool down.

Dusting and polishing

• Before spraying, ensure that the spray outlet is pointed away from your face and is directed onto the furniture or window being polished. ‘Feel’ the position of the spray outlet first.
• Try different methods of polishing. Ornaments can be removed first or they can be lifted up and dusted under. Removing them altogether may avoid the danger of knocking them over.
• Consider using liquid polish.
• Dust from left to right and right to left, covering the whole surface or the item being dusted. Use circular movements for a table or large surface. Start at the back and move forwards in a methodical manner.

Caution: Some aerosols (including spray polish) may be inflammable. Do not spray near flames or ignition sources.

Sweeping

• Clear the floor of as much furniture and clutter as possible.
• Gather all of your equipment together.
• Try to divide the room into imaginary sections using a wall or a piece of furniture as a guide.
• Sweep each section and then move the dust to the next section.
• Sweep in one direction, bringing the dust to one end of the room.
• If the gathered ‘dust’ is difficult to locate, place a ‘scrunched up’ piece of paper in it so that it may be easier to find.
• If you are unsure that all the dust gathered is swept up, consider vacuuming the area.

Spillages and breakages

Accidents happen in all homes and it is always important to clean up as quickly and safely as possible.

• Gather all required cleaning products.
• When a spillage occurs, try to mark out the area immediately by covering with newspaper or kitchen paper, so that you can locate the area when you go to clean it.
• If glass is broken, be extra cautious. Wear rubber gloves when collecting glass. Sweep and brush glass to one side. Consider hoovering the area to clean up small splinters of glass. Avoid walking around in bare feet.
• Consider asking a sighted friend or relative to assist you with the cleaning up process if your safety is at risk.