Christmas puts more pressure on your home than any other time of year. There are more people, more food, more washing and more mess. An appliance that struggles in October can fail completely in December, when you can least afford it.
Use this checklist to get ready early. A little preparation now means a calmer Christmas.
Make room in the fridge and freezer
Christmas shopping can overwhelm a fridge freezer. Clear out anything out of date in November, and wipe the shelves and drawers so there is space for the big shop.
Check the door seals are clean and close firmly. As a guide, a fridge should run at 5 degrees or below, and a freezer at minus 18. If you often struggle for space, a second freezer or a larger fridge freezer is worth thinking about before the rush.
Check your oven and hob
Give the oven a proper clean before the big day, and check that the lights, shelves and door seal are all in good order. If something is not working, it is much easier to deal with it now than on Christmas Eve.
If you are planning to cook for a crowd and your oven is too small or too temperamental, now is the time to look at a replacement.
Be ready for the extra washing
Guests mean extra bedding, towels and clothes. Make sure your washing machine is draining well and that the filter is clean. A tumble dryer is a big help over the winter months when drying outside is not an option.
If your washing machine or dryer has been playing up, do not wait. Delivery and installation can take time in the weeks before Christmas.
Keep floors and sofas looking good
With people coming and going, floors take a battering. A cordless vacuum cleaner is perfect for quick clean ups between visitors, and it is light enough to use on the stairs. Dyson cordless models are a popular choice for this, such as the Dyson V8 Cyclone and the Dyson V10 Konical.
Spills are part of Christmas. A spot cleaner can lift stains from carpets, rugs and upholstery quickly, before they set. A steam cleaner is also useful for freshening up hard floors and surfaces without lots of chemicals, ahead of guests arriving.
Get the kitchen bin ready
Wrapping paper, packaging and leftovers build up quickly. Check that your kitchen bin is big enough for the extra waste, and consider one with separate compartments so it is easier to sort recycling. It is a small thing, but it makes the kitchen much easier to run.
Do not forget the TV
Many families will spend Christmas Day around the television. If yours needs replacing, now is a good time to look. Stuart Westmoreland offers TV rental as an alternative to buying, so it is worth finding out more. Check the terms and what is included first.
Order early
The best advice for Christmas is to order early. Delivery dates fill up as the day gets closer, so check them on each product page before you decide.
Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should I order a new appliance for Christmas?
As early as you can. Check delivery dates on the product page, as they fill up in the weeks before Christmas.
What temperature should my fridge and freezer be?
A fridge should be 5 degrees or below and a freezer minus 18, as a general guide.
What is the best way to deal with spills on carpets and sofas?
Act quickly. A spot cleaner is designed for this and can lift many stains from carpets and upholstery before they set.
Can I rent a TV for Christmas?
Stuart Westmoreland offers TV rental. Check the terms and what is included before you decide.