Top 20 Household Tasks Brits Love to Avoid – And How to Tackle Them
Top 20 Household Tasks Brits Avoid

We all have those household tasks we’d rather ignore – but which chores do Brits avoid the most? A new study reveals the top 20 jobs that people in the UK dread, from scrubbing the oven to folding laundry.

The Most Avoided Household Tasks in the UK

Here’s the full list of chores Brits would rather put off:

  1. Cleaning the oven – The greasy, grimy job tops the list.
  2. Ironing – A never-ending battle against wrinkles.
  3. Washing windows – Streaks and ladders make this a nightmare.
  4. Descaling the kettle – Limescale build-up is a common frustration.
  5. Organising wardrobes – Out with the old, in with the new… eventually.
  6. Cleaning the fridge – Forgotten leftovers and sticky spills await.
  7. Dusting – A chore that never truly stays done.
  8. Mopping floors – Especially after muddy footprints appear.
  9. Vacuuming under furniture – The land of lost socks and dust bunnies.
  10. Changing bed sheets – Wrestling with fitted sheets is no one’s favourite.
  11. Cleaning the shower – Soap scum and mildew are relentless.
  12. Decluttering – Sentimental items make this emotionally taxing.
  13. Polishing silverware – A rare but tedious task.
  14. Cleaning skirting boards – Out of sight, out of mind… until they’re not.
  15. Washing curtains – Taking them down is half the battle.
  16. Deep-cleaning carpets – Stains and smells linger without proper care.
  17. Tidying cables – A modern-day tangle of wires.
  18. Cleaning the microwave – Splattered food becomes a science experiment.
  19. Wiping down light switches – Often overlooked but full of germs.
  20. Emptying bins – Especially when they’re overflowing.

Why Do We Avoid These Tasks?

Experts suggest that time-consuming, physically demanding, or repetitive chores are the most likely to be postponed. Some tasks, like oven cleaning, require specific products and effort, while others, like ironing, feel endless.

How to Make Chores Less Painful

Here are a few tips to tackle the most dreaded tasks:

  • Break it down – Focus on one small area at a time.
  • Set a timer – 15 minutes of cleaning feels less overwhelming.
  • Use the right tools – Invest in quality cleaning supplies.
  • Make it fun – Listen to music or a podcast while working.
  • Reward yourself – A treat after finishing makes it worthwhile.

With a little strategy, even the most avoided chores can become manageable. Which task do you dread the most?