Cleaning Checklist for the Holidays
The holiday season is a very busy time for everyone. Between work, social gatherings, and trying to squeeze in some fun, it's easy to let chores around the house slip. But before having company over, it's crucial to ensure the house is clean and presentable. Here's a handy checklist:
Living room and dining room
Dust all surfaces, including ceiling fans, baseboards, windowsills, and light fixtures. Don't forget to dust those hard-to-reach places. A microfiber cloth or feather duster can help rid the place of dust quickly and easily.
Vacuum all carpets and rugs. For best results, shampoo the carpets for a deep clean.
Wash all floors. Hardwood floors should be swept and then mopped. Tile floors and linoleum floors need mopping with a disinfecting solution. Be sure to dry the floors afterward, so no one slips.
Clean all mirrors and glass surfaces. This includes windows (inside and out), picture frames, and glass doors. A vinegar-and-water solution or another glass cleaner can be used for a streak-free shine.
Fluff up all pillows and cushions on furniture, and vacuum or steam clean upholstered pieces like sofas and chairs. Guests always appreciate being able to relax on clean furniture.
Guest bedroom
Dust all surfaces, including furniture, lamps, blinds, and décor items.
Wipe down fingerprints or smudges on doors, switches, and drawer pulls.
Make the bed with fresh linens. Add a decorative pillow and blanket for extra warmth and coziness.
Empty the closets and dresser drawers of any clutter. Leave a few empty hangers for guests to use.
Clear off nightstands and empty wastebaskets. Place a lamp on each nightstand within easy reach of the bed.
Vacuum or sweep the floors. Be sure to get under the bed too.
Finish up by spraying a light mist of essential oils or linen spray in the room for a refreshed scent.
Kitchen
Wipe down all hard surfaces (countertops, sinks, pantry shelves, etc.) with a disinfecting solution like white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. Pay special attention to high-slip areas where there might be food residue or bacteria build-up (i.e., the sink or cutting board).
Take out the trash and recycling before the guests arrive so there are no unpleasant smells or messes. And don't forget to put new bags in all the wastebaskets.
Bathroom
Start with the toilets. Always scrub both the inside and outside of the bowl and the base and tank. Don't forget to flush.
Put fresh towels and ensure plenty of toilet paper is on hand. No one wants to run out during a holiday gathering.
Wipe down all surfaces, including the faucet and handles.
Be sure to squeegee any glass surfaces after showering to prevent water spots.
Entryway
Declutter the entryway so there's plenty of space for everyone. Put away any knick knacks or personal items you don't want to be in the way of guests.
Wipe down the door, handles, and light fixtures.
Add a fresh plant or flowers for a touch of color.
Consider hiring a professional cleaning service
Professional cleaners know how to quickly and efficiently clean a home from top to bottom. They'll scrub the kitchen counters, vacuum the carpets, dust furniture, and much more. By hiring a professional cleaner, one can relax and enjoy the holidays without worrying about the cleanup beforehand or afterward.
3D Carpet Cleaning and Restoration offers home service cleaning and sanitation, air duct cleaning, and 24-hour flood service in Tampa & South Florida. Call (813) 833 - 4126 today!