30 Tips to reduce holiday stress and enjoy Christmas

From Christmas shopping to social gatherings, here are ways you can reduce stress this holiday season.

30 Tips to reduce holiday stress and enjoy Christmas

Christmas is a joyful time with family and friends coming together to celebrate. However, it can also be a stressful time trying to manage social events, coordinating with your family, and let’s not forget working full-time.

To help prevent getting burnt out this holiday season, we have a few practical suggestions you can do now to help you stress less this Christmas.

On managing Christmas expenses

1. Set a budget for everything

Set your budgets for social events, gift purchases, and Christmas feasts now. This way, you can manage your income with the expected costs this December.

2. Prepare emergency funds

Keep a bit of extra money on the side for those surprise expenses you haven’t thought of.

3. Save up for next Christmas

inserting coin in piggy bank

Perhaps too late for this year, but set up a savings account for birthdays and Christmas time after this Christmas. You can add funds to this account every payday. You’ll be able to get a headstart on your savings and have that cushioning for the expensive times of the year.

On Christmas shopping

4. Stock up on non-perishable food

Start buying the non-perishables now. By stocking up on items ahead of time, you’ll lighten the load in the coming weeks and have everything you need. You can hire someone to run to the grocery store for you and deliver your groceries to your doorstep.

5. Make a master gift list

Picking out gifts on the fly while you shop can be overwhelming. A master gift list can automate your shopping decisions. Or, at the very least, this list can be a good starting point when you’re deciding which store to visit. Compile a master gift list for all your nearest and dearest. If you can, build out this list throughout the year as gift ideas come up.

6. Do your Christmas shopping on a weekday

person walking inside mall

It’s obvious but try to do your shopping on weekdays during your lunch break rather than on weekends with everyone in the neighbourhood.

7. Shop late at night or early in the morning

At Christmas time, all the major retailers have longer opening hours so wait till late at night or first thing in the morning to get what you need. Plus, you should get a great car park as well.

8. Shop for Christmas gifts online

Avoid the crowds entirely and stay safe at home. Online shopping is popular nowadays, and you have loads of options for buying Christmas gifts online. You can often find great bargains, and many online stores gift wrap for you as well.

9. Organise a Secret Santa

Organising a Secret Santa can take the pressure off overspending and buying a gift for everyone. There are plenty of Secret Santa apps that can help you organise the gift exchange online.

10. Book a gift delivery service

For a personal touch, you can book a gift delivery service. Our platform can connect you with local Taskers who can head to the store, pick up your gift, and deliver it straight to your loved one. From festive cakes to beautiful wooden toys, you can get any gift you need.

11. Get customised gifts

Make it extra personal with gifts specially made for your loved ones. Taskers on our platform have various skills, such as illustration, graphic design, and baking. Now you can easily get a beautiful hand-drawn portrait or bespoke cupcakes for your family and friends.

12. Make sure you have enough wrapping supplies

Purchase all gifting needs such as wrapping paper and ribbons, and don’t forget the extra sticky tape. For more cost effective options, try discount stores of Officeworks.

13. Buy extra gifts

It’s good to have extra gifts on hand for those people you forget. Extra gifts like chocolates, funky condiments, and hand lotion make great stocking fillers, too! With extra gifts ready at any time, you’ll always have something to give out to your guests.

On preparing Christmas meals

14. Make a meal plan while it’s early

Plan your Christmas menu ahead of time and list down all the ingredients you need. Also, buy as many non-perishables as you can now. You can always outsource these tasks and hire someone else to plan your menu and even prepare the food.

15. Delegate

We love the idea of wanting to do it all. But sometimes, you have to delegate tasks to your party guests, even if it’s just picking up ice and drinks. Just let them know ahead of time. Chances are they wouldn’t mind helping out.

16. Write down the cooking schedule

As Christmas day draws nearer, write a detailed timeline of everything you need to do and at what time. Doing so can ensure you’ve covered all your bases, and you’ll be less frantic come Christmas day. For example, write down what time to put the turkey in the oven and baste the ham.

17. Order food before the holiday rush

croissants on trays

Avoid running to the store at the last minute, only to find empty shelves. By ordering food ahead of time, you get better chances of getting the best quality ham or that coveted pavlova from your local bakery.

On preparing the home

18. Declutter your home

Take time to dispose of things you no longer need or that don’t spark joy. Clutter can often add to feelings of overwhelm and stress. If you’ve been meaning to get rid of an old TV or stack of magazines, now’s the perfect time. Once you’ve freed up some space in your home, it’ll be easier to put up the decorations and go about your daily activities.

19. Book a house cleaner

Even if you’re not hosting the festivities this year, you’ll still be running around a lot, and clutter can pile up in your home. Fortunately, you can hire a house cleaner to come by every once in a while to tidy up your home.

house cleaner cleaning table using rag and diffuser

20. Go for minimal decorations

Festive doesn’t have to mean extravagant. So if you’re on a budget or simply don’t have the time to go all-out, minimal Christmas decorations are the way to go. After all, Christmas parties during these times may not be as big as the ones you’ve had before. Focus on the most used rooms in your home, like the living room and dining room. By scaling back with mindful decorations, you can maximise impact and elegance.

21. Prepare your outdoor area

Outdoor gatherings are a safer way to socialise nowadays. Before the festivities come into full swing, clear out your garden or set up a table on your patio. With a tidy outdoor area, you’ll be ready to host guests at any time and avoid cramming everyone indoors.

22. Polish the silver

If you’re hosting Christmas meals, get your home ready by polishing the silverware, dusting your expensive China, and ironing the tablecloths and napkins.

23. Get your Christmas tree delivered

Picking out a Christmas tree and hauling it to your home can take up an entire day. Instead, book a Christmas tree delivery service to save yourself the time and heavy lifting. Get your Christmas tree delivered to your doorstep, ready for you and your kids to decorate together. Or, if you’re too busy, you can ask a Tasker to handle everything, from Christmas tree pickup to decorations.

24. Decorate room by room

You can decorate as early as you want, so why not get the boxes out now and go room by room, so it’s not a big task? If you have extra funds, you could even consider hiring a local decorator to transform your home into a winter wonderland.

On celebrating during the pandemic

Virtual gatherings may not be as good as face-to-face interactions. But there are many ways to make virtual gatherings more fun. Here are creative ways to celebrate Christmas during the pandemic.

25. Host a virtual party

Gather your friends and family online for a virtual Christmas dinner or holiday movie marathon. Teleparty lets you synchronise Netflix streaming while on a video call or group chat. What’s more, you can unwrap gifts together over Zoom.

26. Cook together via video call

The holiday preparations can be a party in itself! Go ahead and call up your loved ones while you prepare your Christmas dishes. You can chat away while chopping the vegetables and decorating the cake.

27. Spread some holiday cheer

Thinking about other people can be a great way to step away from everyday stress. Drop off meals or send care packages to elders or sick people who may be alone during the holidays. A little act of kindness can go a long way in brightening up everyone’s Christmas.

On self-care

Last but certainly not least don’t forget about yourself! These are your holidays too, so don’t forget to sit back and take some time out for yourself.

28. Say no to invitations if you need to

While it’s tempting to make the most of social gatherings, it’s okay to step back and stay home. You wouldn’t want to stretch yourself too thin with holiday obligations.

29. Unplug from social media

woman holding a cup of coffee and reading a book

Put away your phone and carve out time to catch up on your reading or go for a walk. Slowing down and taking in the holiday atmosphere can do wonders for your mental health.

30. Keep your health in check

Your physical health affects your overall well-being. For this reason, make sure to get plenty of sleep and try to keep up with your workout routine. You can book a quick yoga session over a video call to reduce stress and boost your mood. Also, feel free to savour all the food and drinks this season, but remember—moderation is key.

By applying a tip or two from this list, your holidays can be less stressful. Plan ahead, ask for help when you need it, and take time for yourself.

How To: Prepare For An Airbnb Guest

Airbnb is a great way to earn some extra money when you’re not using your place or if you have "How To: Prepare For An Airbnb Guest"

How To: Prepare For An Airbnb Guest

Task_airbnb_01

Airbnb is a great way to earn some extra money when you’re not using your place or if you have a spare room available. It can be stressful letting someone to have free rein of your apartment or house and although it’s likely to be smooth sailing nor you or the guest want any surprises.

Whether it’s the handover of keys or cleaning before and after, we’ve put together  our guide below.

Our guide how to prepare for your next Airbnb guest:

1. Welcome note

Providing a little note and maybe a gift could make all the difference to someones stay. You should also consider letting them know where things are e.g. plates and extra towels, and even how to use the entertainment system.If there are any alarms and other must-knows, you should leave all this information together in the one spot so it’s easy for them to find on their arrival.

2. Local guide

Got a favourite take-away shop nearby or know of a reliable dry-cleaner? Sharing this information with your guest could increase their impressions of their stay. For a few local tips consider providing them with transport timetables or a taxi number, and letting them know where the nearest supermarket or post office is.

Check out our top 5 cleaning tips.

3. The little things

Think of when you go on a holiday, staying in a hotel; what are the items you use and rely on during your stay? Your guests might be arriving late from the other side of the world and need a couple of things to get them through the next 12 hrs.

Here’s a few ideas:

  • Towels
  • Sheets
  • Bathroom items (shampoo, conditioner, soap, toilet paper)
  • Hairdryer and iron
  • Power adapters

4. Cleaning

Our biggest tip is to leave your place in the same state which you would be happy to return to.

Make sure you tick these bits off your list:

  • Clean linen and towels
  • Dust and wipe surfaces
  • General tidy and take out rubbish

You can always charge a cleaning fee and hire a cleaner for a AirBnB clean service up on Airtasker. If you’re really clever the Airbnb guest could handover to the Airtasker, who could clean up your home so that you don’t even need to lift a finger!

5. Talk

Communication is key from start to finish on Airbnb. Getting to know your guests plans helps you get organised so that they can have the best time in your city.
If something goes wrong or you just want to get an update of how they’re going, make sure you can be contacted. It’s also worth a letting a friend or neighbour know you’ve got a guest so if anything happens you have someone close-by to help you out.

Got any more tips from your Airbnb experience? Let us know in the comments below.

 

Stain removal – Myths vs Facts

I’m not sure about you, but getting stains on my clothes is a regular occurrence and if I happen to "Stain removal – Myths vs Facts"

house cleaning services from Airtasker

I’m not sure about you, but getting stains on my clothes is a regular occurrence and if I happen to be throwing a dinner party there’s bound to be wine spilt on the tablecloth, floor or more commonly both. If you asked 10 people the best way to removed a red wine stain, I guarantee that you’ll get a variety of responses, so I thought I’d put my MythBusters hat on and look at the myths vs. facts of stain removal. Here are the results…

The Myths vs. Facts of Stain Removal

1. Myth or fact – Hairspray removes ink stains

It’s been debated whether hairspray removes ink on laundry items e.g. sheets and clothes, and while there has been some instances where its been successful, it should be approached with caution.

Hairspray contains alcohol so it shouldn’t be used with certain types of materials as it will do more harm than good and leave behind another stain for you to deal with. Make sure you look at the garment tag and dry clean if recommend, if not a few washes will see the ink come out eventually.
Answer = Myth

2. Myth or Fact – WD-40 for Crayon stains

For all the mums and dads out there I’m sure you’ve had the problem of giving a child a pen, texta or crayon and as soon as you’ve turned your back they’ve drawn on the walls, sofa, themselves or even you.

While for the material stains I recommend looking up the manufacturer website, WD-40 will remove crayon stains from a variety of surfaces such as wood, walls, and most other surfaces. Give it a try next time, might be easier than some very exhausting scrubbing with spray and wipe.
Answer = Fact

3. Myth or fact – Rub the stain to remove it

Your first instincts tell you that you need to get rid of that stain as quickly as possible, which means you’ll start rubbing and scrubbing the stain because it’s the fastest way to remove it.

Find out the ultimate cleaning tools must-haves and other hot tips

But stop, right there! Do not rub a stain ever because you’re only rubbing it in further. The best way is to use a damp cloth and dab from the outer to the inner part of the stain.
Answer = Myth – dab it!!

4. Myth or fact – Soda water/ white wine/ salt removes red wine

Picture this – You’re hosting a dinner party, everyone is a bit merry and all of a sudden someone has spilt red wine all over the carpet. Next thing you know people are telling you to five different ways to get the stain out and with a barrage of theories it can get a bit confusing. Here are three common theories:

  • Salt can stop the stain from setting so you have more ‘thinking’ time to consider which removal option your going to go with.
  • White wine should be poured on top of the spilt red wine. Well, I can’t say I’ve tested this one but apparently it neutralises the red colour. Have you tried it?
  • Soda water (aka water with bubbles) is a party favourite, however there’s no chemical reasoning as to why it would work more than ordinary water. The stain removal community is largely divided – have you got a preference?

The overall conclusion is that you could add soda water, wine or vinegar straight away but whatever you do, dab DON’T RUB as it will only make the stain worse.

What do you think? Got any other theories or disagree with any of the above? Let us know, we’re keen to hear!

We always have someone on Airtasker to help you! If you need someone with loads of know-how and experience make sure you post a home cleaning task on Airtasker today!

Top 5 Cleaning Tips

There’s no better feeling than sitting back on the couch and admiring a clean and spotless house – but you "Top 5 Cleaning Tips"

Top cleaning tips

There’s no better feeling than sitting back on the couch and admiring a clean and spotless house – but you can admit that it was a bit of a pain to get there. You might be lucky enough to have a cleaner or a flawless roster for your family or housemates so that cleaning is not such tedious task. However it’s always handy to have a few tricks up your sleeve, not only will these tips save you time but also make cleaning a lot easier.

Top 5 Cleaning Tips to Save you Time

Tip 1: Organisation
Being prepared is key to tidying the house quickly with having a plan of attack will mean your not distracted and get the task done. You should:
– Plan (try to approach room by room)
– Multi-task
– Set a time-limit so you are constantly moving
– Have all your products out and ready
– Clear the clutter because it’s hard to clean when the house is a mess

Tip 2: Mopping
Mopping can bring it’s own challenges, but there are there are some things you need to keep in mind before and during the cleaning process.

Before you even fill the bucket with water make sure you sweep/ vacuum the floors, not only is it pointless to mop it but it can also damage your floors. Also check that you’ve got the right clean mop head. Here is a little helpful table:

Types of mops

Remember to not use too much detergent (just a little squirt) as it will make the floors slippery, change the water frequently as it’s pointless to mop the house with dirty water and don’t forget mops can be used on walls and ceilings as well e.g. bathroom tiles.

Tip 3: Dusting
This is often overlooked and even if you do get around to getting rid of that dust, there are spots you might miss so it’s always good to have a bit of a check-list for each room. So don’t forget to dust the:

– Celling fans and light fixtures
– Corners and door frames
– Walls (could use that flat head mop)
– Vents
– Picture frames and delicate items but be careful and maybe use a smaller duster

If you’re on the lookout for rug cleaning costs, read up on latest rug cleaning price guide.

Tip 4: Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home where yummy treats are baked and where stories are shared over a cuppa or dinner parties.

So that it always looks fresh use brown vinegar on the oven glass then wipe it away after an hour. Rid dishwasher smells with a cup of white vinegar in an empty dishwasher and put on a normal wash or if it’s your chopping boards cut a lemon and rub the surface with the fruit.

Tip 5: Tools for the job
Making sure you have the right cleaning products means you’ll get the job completed quicker with better results. Don’t also forget to check supply levels before you start – no point in starting only to realize you’re out of spray n’ wipe by the time you reach the bathroom.

If you use Airtasker to find a local cleaner, make sure you confirm who is supplying the products.

Here’s a quick essential check list you can use
– All-purpose surface cleaning spray
– Glass, shower and floor cleaners
– Duster, vacuum, dustpans, mop, bucket, sponges, toilet brush, scrubbing brush
– Gloves

Check out our cleaning cost guide for your reference or if you have some tips to share? Leave it in the comments below!

How to Disassemble & Move IKEA Furniture

IKEA furniture is affordable and easy to assemble... Apparently. So what happens to it when you move house?

How to Disassemble & Move IKEA Furniture

With such a the huge number of furniture assembly tasks, it’s obvious that putting together IKEA furniture isn’t something we enjoy. However when we move home, what do you do with the IKEA furniture? Keen, toss or is there another way?

First, you need to ask yourself:
1. Do you take the IKEA furniture apart (disassemble)?
2. Do you move it as is?
3. Do you just leave it behind?

Here’s how to disassemble and move IKEA furniture

Option 1: Take apart

If you decide to take it apart it will fit into your truck a lot easier and you won’t have to manoeuvre around tight corners trying not to scratch the walls.

That was the positive, now for the negatives… You will need to find those instructions that you probably threw out as a sign of IKEA victory because you’ll need to work backwards. But not to worry the website IKEAFANS could be the answer to your prayers with a bunch of PDF copies of the instructions you need.

Also, do you remember the pain of putting it together and the fights had with your partner or mate about who could put it together faster? Well, you’re about to go through that again. Twice.

If you do take it apart here are a few tips:
– Remember it’s cheap furniture and can get damaged easily. Use sheets etc to protect it during the move.
– Label the pieces and the screws if possible.
– Don’t tighten the screws – remember you may need to take it apart again.

Don’t forget to check out our top 5 tips for moving or post a task to help move IKEA furniture to your new home.

Option 2: Don’t disassemble, just move it

You will save time, perhaps energy but maybe not money depending on your agreement with removalists.

It is the easiest way to move the furniture if the layout of the old and new house allows it, however it could take up a bit of space in the truck which means possibly more trips back and forth.

You might want to also check if you have the same flimsy tools that you were given originally because we’ve heard that you will need that unique tool to fit those specific screws.

Option 3: Leave it behind

This is by far the easiest option if you decide to leave it, throw it out or even better donate it to a friend or charity.

Just remember IKEA furniture is cheap so you can buy brand new furniture that will fit and suit your new place. Think of it as a fresh start. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what option you go with, just pick the best option for you and make it work.

Top 5 Moving Tips

So you’re thinking about moving house or just about to? Well first up, congrats that’s awesome news! We’re guessing you’re "Top 5 Moving Tips"

Moving tips

So you’re thinking about moving house or just about to? Well first up, congrats that’s awesome news! We’re guessing you’re excited, extremely happy and maybe even slightly stressed at the thought of finances, moving logistics and possibly pre-move renovations.

It’s important to remember that almost everyone has been through this, so don’t worry you’re not alone with moving-day blues. The good news is that everyone will have moving day advice for you; you just need to decide what works for you.

Here are 5 main moving tips to make your life a tad bit easier:

Tip 1: Get the essentials
It’s not only boxes and tape that you’ll need to start the pack up, there are a couple of other things we bet you’ve forgotten…

– Packing paper
– Good textas
– Bubble wrap
– Scissors
– Labels (Have a box number system, put your new address and contact name/ number)
– Wardrobe boxes

Also get extra supplies, we bet you’ll run out quicker than you think.

Tip 2: Pack smart
Planning for the end game (un-packing) is a must, as you’ll save plenty of time, energy and it will make all the more enjoyable.

Here’s a quick round up:
1. Make a list of box and it’s contents
2. Be specific on box labels (not just room names)
3. Keep similar items together in the one box
4. Pack ahead – a little packing everyday will save you time on moving day

Tip 3: Helpers
Whether you’ve enlisted friends, family, removalists or a friendly removalist on Airtasker to help you move it doesn’t matter who exactly but don’t try to do it on your own. It’s often a bigger task than you think and besides you’ll be in your new place a lot quicker.

Not only can they help you with the move but if you have kids they could babysit or if it’s your precious kitty or puppy a pet sitter could be the answer to your worries.

Whoever you get to help, don’t forget to treat them to a yummy pizza or drinks after; they did give up their time to help you out after all.

Tip 4: Go professional
There are many options when moving other than by yourself, most popular option being hiring removalists. If you go down this route do NOT select based on price but consider what you need. Do you need to clean before and after? Do you want to move in with everything unpacked? (you’re saying yes to this right?!), Do you need them to pack? Or do you just need them to get everything from A to B?

Step back, consider your all options, compare and don’t be afraid to go after what you want. It is some of your most valuable belongings they are handling.

Tip 5: Consider recycling
Recycling may not only save you money but it’s also highly waste intensive with a serious impact on the environment. Surely you don’t need everything from your old house… You could consider having a garage sale or put items up on eBay, Gumtree or Oddswop. If there’s not a huge value or no takers why not give it to friends and family or donate it to a local charity such as the Salvation Army.

There’s bound to be a friend of a friend moving sometime soon, so rather than creating more landfill, give your used boxes to them. Or better yet, rent your boxes.

So there you have it, some simple great moving tips. Let us know how you went and share any more tips in the comments below.

For more helpful tips check out our top Handyman tips and Painting tips hints.

Top 5 Painting Tips

Painting as a kid was fun however fast-forward to now and the excitement has worn off. Not only do you "Top 5 Painting Tips"

Painting tips

Painting as a kid was fun however fast-forward to now and the excitement has worn off. Not only do you have to finish the job, but there’s no paint fights and even worse you discover any the imperfections in the coming weeks.

If you’ve experienced any of the following: paint foaming, cracking, wrinkling, splatter and roller marks – then you need some pointers before you embark on your next painting challenge. Not to worry we’ve seen plenty of painting tasks get completed to perfection.

Below are some helpful painting tips

Tip 1: Prep walls
Before that paintbrush goes anywhere near the bucket, make sure you are working with smooth surfaces. Sanding after painting won’t work, and not to mention look terrible. Use a fine grit sanding paper before you paint, it will remove the rough spots.

If you’ve filled in holes and cracks don’t paint directly over it as the moisture can be sucked out of the paint. To avoid fixed holes from standing out, use a primer, preferably not white (unless you are painting the wall white) but either a grey or colour similar to the finish colour.

Tip 2: Paint quality
This is something you shouldn’t skimp on, superior paints will mean better resistance over time to mildew, stains and cleaning. It will also last longer and not fade as fast or peel off the wall.

If you need to buy a few cans of mixed paint, remember no two buckets are the same. So that you don’t end up with a two-toned wall, mix the individuals tins in a big bucket to ensure the colour is even.

Tip 3: Must have tools
– Mess free paint pourer for easy tray refills
– Painting stick to make ceiling painting 100 times easier – just don’t forget to wear glasses
– Door hinge covers are possibly the best invention ever, or you could just use tape
– Paint roller will make it quicker and easier, just don’t forget to wash it before the first time to get rid of any loose fibers – or better yet use a lint roller

Tip 4: DIY Tricks
1. Cover paint tray with plastic bag or aluminium foil
2. If using a roller use the zig-zag method so paint goes on smoothly
3. Put Vaseline over areas you don’t want painted e.g. screws
4. Use a rubber band around the paint tin to wipe off excess paint
5. When finished cover left over paint in tin with cling wrap before you put the lid on to prevent sticking

Tip 5: Friends
Invite a couple of mates around to help, if you provide the pizza and beer you’ll hear no complaints and it will be finished in half the time (maybe check their painting credentials before roping them in). Plus you can totally have a paint fight.

Got some helpful tips? Share yours below!

How to Wall-mount Your TV?

You’ve purchased your new TV and bought the bracket but stuck wondering how to mount the TV on your wall. "How to Wall-mount Your TV?"

How to Wall-mount Your TV?

You’ve purchased your new TV and bought the bracket but stuck wondering how to mount the TV on your wall. Well here’s a handy guide of important steps not to skip when mounting it on your freshly painted wall.

Continue reading “How to Wall-mount Your TV?”