For many of us, cleaning up is actually a huge part of our caring role. From soiled sheets, sofas and clothing. To wiping down floors, windows and furniture. And let’s not forget hovering and sweeping up breakages.
I figured I wasn’t the only one, and opened up a chat in our community, for us to share practical and emotional tips and a sense of ‘we’re in it together’ to help lift our spirits.
For many of us, cleaning comes a close second to our primary caring role. In terms of the time, energy and emotional toll it can take. Especially when our caring role involves personal care.
On a tough day, another bodily fluid clear up can be a tipping point for some of us. So here’s our carers’ guide to staying sane and safe in the world of bodily fluids.
Emotional top tips from our community
Sense of humour needed - fair enough, sometimes our sense of humour can fail us - particularly after a long night or a long run of soiling. But, when we can find something to giggle about, it really can help. Sometimes we can be heard saying:
“We appear to have a shituation”,
which can release the pressure and give us a little giggle.
Play some music while we clear up - whatever genre makes us feel good.
Reframe the situation:
“As I change the bedding for the fifth time that week, I’ll think of it as an extra workout!”
Find something to be grateful for:
“I shift my focus away from ‘what’s wrong’ to I’m grateful for my washing machine or a sunny day to use the washing line”
“I’m grateful I’m physically able to do this for my loved-one”
And let's not forget to give ourselves a pat on the back for doing something pretty unpleasant. Even reward ourselves even if it’s just a cup of tea in our favourite mug, with our biscuit of choice.
Practical top tips from our community
Sofas
Use single waterproof sheets to cover sofa cushions, topped with a pretty outdoor rug. All easily washable, but still looks attractive.
Replace the back cushions of the sofa with outdoor, waterproof cushions.
Beds and preventing stains
We can get single waterproof mattress protectors that the mattress fits entirely inside. Washable and removes the risk of leaks at the edges.
Waterproof duvets are fluid proof and hygienic. As they can be wiped down, they rarely need washing.
Waterproof mattresses are also available, like those used in hospitals.
Washing top tips
A recommendation from our community is washing Napisan in our wash, to kill those extra germs!
Marigold re-usable cleaning gloves (we are for sustainability!)
The classic Dettol antibacterial spray and cleaning cloths that we can pop into the washing machine after.
“I pop a drop of washing-up liquid in with my washing powder, which catches any grease spots I may have missed."
“A shot of vinegar in the last rinse of our washing will kill bacteria and keep our machine free of germs”
Floors, carpets and getting rid of horrible smells
Vanish powder was recommended for freshening up carpets.
Outdoor rugs are waterproof!
"Plain old white vinegar. It neutralises the smell rather then masks it and the vinegar smell goes quickly so don’t worry about that. I keep it in a spray bottle. You can add a few drops of pure lemon or peppermint oil too"
"To get rid of the vomit smells from the carpet, sprinkle area with bicarbonate of soda and let sit for a few minutest, spray with white vinegar/water mix, rub gently, remove foam/paste with paper towels/cloths then wash with warm soapy water."
“We replaced our downstairs carpet with laminate”
"I purchase bicarbonate soda in large quantities online or at discount homewares shops. I get rid of smells by pouring it on the carpet and leaving it there for a while, and hoover. I always spray a good air freshener onto the filter of my hoover before I vacuum it too. Or also buy Neutradol/Oust sachets to put in the hoover."
Dr Beckmann carpet cleaner is pure magic - and comes with a brush! Other brands also available.
Air Wick or Febreze plug in air fresheners are also life-savers. They can be plugged in for an hour or so and we won't need to worry about smell!
Toilet matters and incontinence pads
Ask our GP if they can refer us to the NHS incontinence service to get free incontinence pads. They can provide equipment such as (for men) sheaths and urine bags, (and women) pads for day and night time incontinence.
"My wife uses Adult pull-ups during the night, we get hers delivered by NHS Delivery. This was organised by the local continence nurse, and we receive 90 a month."
"I use Tena men pants for my dad, they average about £8 for a pack of 7 from most supermarkets. But if you ask your doctor or nurse, I’m sure you should be able to get them on the NHS if finances are tight. It makes life so much easier for him and for me."
"I used to buy my dad adult pull ups until the time came he couldn't walk, that way if he needed to go he still could."
Check out our full guide on all things bladder and bowel incontinence for more top tips.
Find small, quick opportunities to make the clean-up easier. Whether it be a portable bidet, having large packs of wipes in every room or a cordless vacuum (easier to carry anywhere!).
"We have a portable bidet that sits inside the toilet seat to minimise the clean up. Also from Amazon."
"If you use wipes, don't throw them down the loo, even if they claim to be flushable. You don't need blocked drains adding to your concerns."
"To clean up Mum, I use the foam spray with loo roll then, same foam with a damp flannel."
We’d love to continue growing this resource. If you have a tip to share, please do share them in the Mobilise Community!
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