Cleaning when you have little to no grip!

sugardoodle31
sugardoodle31 Community member Posts: 6 Connected
in Everyday life

Its as title really!

I've got nerve damage and compression, and my grip is slowly vanishing while I wait for spinal surgery.
I'm finding it increasingly harder to keep on top of cleaning the home though; I want to reiterate I do have my OH who does do a lot but you know when you just want to get something done quick and done right?! lol he also has issues of his own and struggles with his back.

I can't vacuum anymore, OH does it. but one job which I love is scrubbing the kitchen and bathroom floors, and cleaning the bathroom itself but this now is impossible. How does everyone else do these tasks? I want to remain as able as possible because I am a stubborn 36 yo who likes things done my way haha but we have two dogs and a cat and they are bringing lots of muddy pawprints in.

xx

Comments

  • OverlyAnxious
    OverlyAnxious Community member Posts: 3,358 Championing

    I can't scrub bathroom surfaces myself anymore (although not due to grip). I've seen brushes that fit into a drill and work like a huge electric toothbrush to take a lot of the effort out of scrubbing. There are also some long handled tools specifically designed for this now, though they cost more than the drill attachments. I wonder if anything like that would be suitable for you? We can't post advertising links on here but if you search 'electric spin scrubber' online there are plenty of results.

  • JessieJ
    JessieJ Community member Posts: 675 Pioneering
    edited November 15

    I can't vacuum, but I have a Gtech carpet sweeper, which is light to use on crutches or in a wheelchair, it's surprising how well it works. That gets me by until I can nab a visiting relly to run the vacuum around. Flash speed mop is much the same, it's not a scrub, but it looks clean afterwards. 😉 Although I have lessening feeling & dexterity, I can still scrub where I can reach, waist & a little above. Maybe you could hash up an elastic or velcro band to secure a cloth to help you.

  • Littlefatfriend
    Littlefatfriend Community member Posts: 55 Contributor

    Might a car washing mitt help? They're usually microfibre and fit over your hand similar to a glove.

    Just a thought, good luck with cleaning and your surgery.

  • Sandy_123
    Sandy_123 Scope Member Posts: 58,604 Championing

    Hi there I use long handled brushes and sponges with various attachments for shower room. Which is good for doing cupboards and uneasy to reach things

  • sugardoodle31
    sugardoodle31 Community member Posts: 6 Connected

    thank you for all of your suggestions!

    I have bought a long reach flash duster and a battery operated multi tool cleaner, has a toilet cleaner attachment on it too so I don’t have a scrub anymore!
    my oh is getting me the new shark wet floor vacuum for Xmas haha


    xxx

  • Sandy_123
    Sandy_123 Scope Member Posts: 58,604 Championing

    Fantastic @sugardoodle31 might be easier for you

  • yves
    yves Scope Member Posts: 39 Empowering
    https://forum.scope.org.uk/discussion/comment/943363#Comment_943363

    That's great 👍

  • Daffodil94
    Daffodil94 Community member Posts: 50 Empowering

    Hi, I have claimed attendance allowance and use it to employ a cleaner who also does our ironing - £40 a week plus £59 to agency. I’ve also got a carer to help me shower. That’s free for first 6 weeks and then means tested. Once a week costs around £17. I’m 71 and have inoperable spine cyst and lots of other bits and pieces. I took pride in having a clean home but now can’t do it. That’s what AA is for after all. I like the company of my carer and cleaner. Nice to have a chat. I admire you all for wanting to keep going. I just had to give in in the end. I still do bits around the house and look after my cat and grandson (23 years old and works with SEND children). Best wishes to all.

  • Daffodil94
    Daffodil94 Community member Posts: 50 Empowering

    for clarification-£59 a month to agency for cleaner

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