Even the tidiest homes need a deep clean from time to time. Use this house cleaning checklist to tackle a whole-home scrubbing before guests arrive, or as part of your spring cleaning routine.
Clutter, dust bunnies, and cobwebs can make cleaning your home more difficult than it should be. Having a place for everything, and keeping things in their places, will make your entire home easier to clean. To make this chore less daunting, consider investing in clever storage solutions like drawer dividers and fabric bins. Also, try a feather duster, which makes quick work of eliminating dust from knickknack-laden surfaces.
Regular house cleaning includes wiping surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms, vacuuming, dusting, and mopping. Deep cleaning is more involved, and involves a more thorough scrubbing and dusting of all surfaces. It can also include sanitizing and deodorizing appliances, washing area rugs, and cleaning drawers and closets. This type of cleaning is particularly important if your family has allergies.
Hiring a professional house cleaner is an option for families that have limited time, or who want a more in-depth cleaning than they can do themselves. It’s also a good option for people with temporary or long-term physical limitations, and those who are selling their homes. Professionals can also do specialty cleaning, such as mold remediation.
It’s important to set clear expectations before hiring a housekeeper, and to interview candidates thoroughly. Make sure they understand your home, what you expect from them, and how often you need their services. Also, make sure you understand how your cleaner charges, as some charge hourly, while others have a flat fee or one-time rate.
When choosing a house cleaner, check their references, and ask for sample work. Ask about their experience, education, and why they chose this career. You can also ask them about their preferences and any non-negotiables. Then, compare this information to the national average for cleaning rates to get an idea of what to expect.
It’s also a good idea to have your tools cleaned or replaced regularly, as using dirty ones can lead to a less effective clean. This is especially true for mop heads and vacuum bags, which can harbor dirt and debris. By making this a regular part of your cleaning schedule, you can save both time and money. Lastly, don’t forget to clean up the yard. Clearing out debris, mulching, and planting flowers will help your home look its best.
