Nothing is nicer than walking into a sparkling clean, tidy and fresh room that nevertheless is homely and inviting. However most of us have neither the the time nor inclination to devote to endless housework. Plus children and pets all conspire against us. Now we have a new best friend, the 21st century's answer to Mrs Beeton in the form of author Anna Shepard. 

Express Housekeeping is a mine of information, practical information  and tricks of the trade. Divided into six sections: Speed cleaning, Washing up, Clothes and Laundry, Removing Stains, Coping with children and pets (cleaning-wise) and Decluttering and with an excellent index, Anna Shepard's Express Housekeeping makes you want to set to with your rubber gloves and microfibre cloth – really!

Speed cleaning is my favourite; each task is on a double page spread with a time needed in the  left hand corner, with info boxes for the "bare essentials" needed plus what to do when: Daily, Weekly, Monthly. White vinegar is used a lot so stock up before you start!

As well as promoting time efficiency, Express Housekeeping gives advice on doing things as cost-effectively as possible.

This is a real back to basics book and, for someone who really doesn't enjoy housework, it can motivate you to get on and clean. A book to help streamline your housekeeping – in every area.

Express Housekeeping is available from Amazon.

PWT rating:♥♥♥♥♥