Over a third (35%) of Brits feel anxious about damaging their property while decorating, and more than a quarter (26%) have previously marked or dented walls using the wrong tools or materials, data reveals.

As the hosting season approaches, people are spending an average of nine hours and 24 minutes getting their homes ready, according to research from DIY manufacturer 3M. The most common pre-Christmas jobs include deep cleaning (33%), decluttering (28%), and touching up paintwork (13%). Yet for many, a lack of confidence with basic DIY can make even the simplest decorating tasks feel daunting.

Two in five (44%) adults admit they avoid drilling or making holes in the wall, while 31% say they’d like to do more DIY but worry about losing their rental deposit if they cause damage.

Richard Davies, Home Improvement Shopper Marketing Lead at 3M, says: “The run-up to Christmas is a busy time, and people want their homes to look beautiful for guests – but not everyone has the time, tools or confidence for DIY. Quick, easy-to-use decorating solutions can make all the difference.”

He suggests focusing on fuss-free options such as the 3M CLAW™ Heavyweight Hanging Solution, which allows you to hang decorations, pictures and mirrors in seconds with no drills or measuring needed, or the Command™ range, which can be removed cleanly without leaving marks.

“Getting your home ready for Christmas doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive,” Davies adds. “A few clever tools can help you decorate in minutes, so you can spend more time enjoying the festive season.”