Simple tips and tools to help make cleaning easier for disabled people, older adults, and anyone with limited mobility
Everyone deserves a clean, safe space. But cleaning can be difficult — especially for disabled people, older adults, or anyone with limited mobility.
That’s why we’ve created this accessible cleaning guide. It’s full of practical ideas to help make cleaning easier, safer, and more manageable — whether you clean on your own, with help, or through a professional service.
Use lightweight and easy-to-handle tools
Heavy, awkward tools can make cleaning harder than it needs to be. Instead, choose lightweight options with ergonomic handles or extendable arms. These reduce the need to stretch, bend or lift.
Some good examples:
• Lightweight cordless vacuums with swivel heads for easy movement
• Spray mops with built-in liquid dispensers (no need to carry a heavy bucket)
• Ergonomic brushes and dustpans with soft grips and standing handles
• Microfibre dusters with telescopic handles to reach high or awkward spots
These small tweaks can make a big difference in comfort and safety.
For more ideas on accessible aids and techniques, check out practical advice from Living Made Easy
Accessible cleaning: small changes that make a big difference
Store frequently used cleaning products within easy reach — ideally between knee and shoulder height. Avoid putting heavy items on high shelves or in low cupboards.
Wall-mounted holders for mops and brooms, clear labelling for sprays and detergents, and slide-out drawers can all make things easier to find and use.
If someone is using a wheelchair, walking aid, or has limited grip, placing supplies in a trolley or organiser with wheels can be especially helpful.
Clean in short, manageable sessions
For people with fatigue or limited stamina, cleaning can be exhausting. Instead of tackling everything in one go, break tasks into short, manageable sessions — one room or one surface at a time.
Some helpful approaches:
• Use timers or music to pace cleaning (e.g. 15-minute sprints)
• List high-priority tasks first to ensure energy is spent wisely
• Use checklists to track what’s done and what’s left
• Schedule regular visits from a professional cleaning service to support what can’t be done solo
The key is to avoid burnout — a little often is better than a big clean-up that wipes you out.
Consider safety and stability
Slippery floors, tangled cords, or unsteady ladders can all pose risks — especially for people with limited balance, mobility, or vision.
Try to:
• Avoid waxy or overly slippery floor cleaners
• Use cordless tools to reduce tripping hazards
• Keep floors clear of clutter while cleaning
• Use stable, wide-based step stools if reaching is necessary — or avoid steps altogether with long-handled tools
Make the most of technology
Modern smart home tech can also support more accessible cleaning. For example:
• Robot vacuums clean floors with hardly any effort. Some can be controlled by voice or set to run on a schedule.
• Voice assistants (like Alexa, Google, or Siri) can remind you to clean, reorder supplies, or control cleaning devices hands-free
• Apps can be used to schedule tasks or track when a cleaner is due to visit
These tools don’t replace people, but they can make life easier — especially for disabled people who may not be able to do physical tasks themselves.
Get help from a professional cleaning service
Finally, the most inclusive option of all may be asking for help. At Starlet Cleaning, we’re proud to support many clients with disabilities, long-term health conditions, or age-related needs. We can tailor our services to fit your specific situation — whether that’s deep cleaning, ongoing weekly help, or just a one-off refresh when you need a boost.
We’re always happy to work around care needs, mobility equipment, or communication preferences — just let us know what works best for you.
We’re always happy to work around care needs, mobility equipment, or communication preferences — just let us know what works best for you. 👉 Explore our professional cleaning services tailored to your needs.
Final thought
Accessible cleaning isn’t about doing everything perfectly — it’s about making life easier, safer, and more manageable for everyone.
With the right tools, a few simple changes, and support when needed, cleaning can be accessible for disabled people, older adults, and anyone with limited mobility. Whether you’re cleaning independently or arranging help, accessible cleaning is about creating a home that works for you.
If you or someone you care for could benefit from a more accessible cleaning routine, we’re here to help.
👉 Explore our cleaning services today
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