A poll of 2,000 adults has revealed the top 10jobs which often go unnoticed at home and are unlikely to get done by someone else.
The most thankless household chores include scrubbing the loo, emptying the bins and doing the washing so the family doesn’t run out of underwear and socks. A recent survey found that other overlooked tasks included removing hair from the shower drain, sorting the clean washing, hoovering and wiping down the cooktop.
The study of 2,000 adults revealed that most of these jobs often go unnoticed. Three quarters admitted that there’s one person in their house who usually shoulders the bulk of these tasks. What’s more, those who avoid doing more around the house often take other people’s hard work for granted.
Beyond the top 10, clearing expired food and scrubbing fridge shelves, defrosting the freezer, and unloading the dishwasher also appeared as overlooked responsibilities.
The study was conducted by the Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances, AMDEA, which operates a ‘Know Watt’s What’ website to help households learn how minor behavioural adjustments can significantly reduce energy bills.
Stefan Hay, CEO for the organisation said: “If you are that person who always runs the washing machine or the dishwasher, especially on energy saving Eco-mode, we salute you.
“Even if some people in your household believe these tasks are done by ‘magic,’ rather than recognising it’s you, have faith as these small things are essential to the smooth and efficient running of a home.”
Of all those surveyed, 85 per cent reckon such chores are vital to keeping a household running smoothly, which jumps to 94 per cent when you ask the people who actually end up doing them.
One in five said they handle at least six thankless chores daily but nobody notices. Yet whilst it can leave them feeling unappreciated, many still feel driven to crack on as they get a buzz from finishing them.
A hatred of mess, preventing future chaos, and taking pride in a spotless home were the main drivers behind their efforts. One in ten even take pride in putting on their cape and being dubbed the hero of the house.
When tackling these domestic duties, 68 per cent are mindful of energy efficiency, only boiling the right amount of water needed or running full loads rather than half loads.
Two thirds carry out these activities in an effort to slash their energy bills, and overall three quarters believe they could be doing more to boost energy efficiency, but obstacles include the expense of upgrading appliances, putting convenience before efficiency, and lack of drive.
Stefan Hay from AMDEA added: “Lots of little jobs can build up to making a real difference in the home and go a long way to helping everyone’s well-being and ensuring our belongings last.
“It’s worth thinking about small changes you can make to your routine, to help your pocket and the environment.
“By using your appliances correctly and adopting clever savings hacks, you could be rewarded with a sparkling home and cheaper energy bills.”
TOP 10 MOST THANKLESS HOUSEHOLD TASKS, ACCORDING TO BRITS:
- Cleaning the toilet
- Taking out the bins
- Cleaning out hair from shower plug
- Putting away the clean laundry
- Dusting
- Vacuuming
- Wiping down the hob after cooking
- Cleaning the oven
- Turning off lights in empty rooms
- Putting a load of washing on so family doesn’t run out of socks/pants
