The May bank holidays are the perfect opportunity for home and garden maintenance jobs and a good old spring clean, and a long weekend is the ideal time to get in the loft and have a proper clear out.  Ideally you will have a loft ladder in place to access your loft, rather than relying on a step ladder or another unsafe access method.  If you're looking for a loft ladder, either to replace your existing access route or to replace an old or faulty loft ladder take a look at our range which includes electric loft ladders that can be operated at the touch of a button.  These new electric loft ladders are great for the elderly or mobility impaired as there's no need to reach up to release the hatch or the ladder.  They are a concertina style and have double handrails from halfway up making them easy to use, as well as space saving – perfect for a smaller loft.

Once you have access to the loft it's important that no-one will damage the loft ladder or stow it back away trapping you in the loft, so never go up there without someone else around to keep you safe or get help if it is needed.

You should wear sturdy shoes or boots when in the loft, as boxes can easily fall on your toes, and wearing gardening gloves is also a good idea, for keeping your hands clean and providing grip.  It is a good idea to do your loft clearing in stages, remembering to avoid the middle of the day when the attic is at the hottest temperature.  Ensure you are appropriately dressed for the climate in the loft, and take water up with you to combat dehydration or a flask of soup if it is very cold.  You should also take breaks to stretch out cramped limbs (unless you have a very tall attic you'll be hunched over and sitting most of the time) and to refuel with drinks and snacks.

A dust mask is advisable, as items which have been forgotten about may be very dusty.  In the confined environment of the loft there's nowhere for the dust to go, so if there is a lot then safety goggles may also be worn to protect your eyes.  Finally, a torch is a must, you could wear a head torch so that your hands are free, alternatively one which can also be used as a lantern as it can be set down to illuminate an area, or a hand-held one to shine into dark corners.

If you know what is up there, make a list so you can check whether or not something's in the loft without having to physically go up there and check.  If you don't know what's lurking up there then make a list as you go, so you can check the loft contents in the future.  This list can also be a valuable aid in deciding what to keep and what to get rid of, as you can make these decisions from the comfort of your sofa, rather than when you're cramped up in the dark, dusty loft.

Finally, look out for creepy crawlies, birds and rodents both dead and alive.  You may need to dispose of some dead animals, and also take steps to deal with any living infestations which often require a professional pest controller.

Before starting any jobs around the home where there is a ladder involved, always remember to check out our ladder safety checklists and stay safe.