8 Steps to a Transformative House Clean

Maid Service Pro Tips - by Joy O - September 28, 2024

Let’s face it—cleaning can feel like a never-ending task. You tidy up one room, and the next thing you know, another space needs attention. But when was the last time you gave your home a real deep clean? Not just a quick wipe-down or vacuum, but a thorough, transformative cleaning session that leaves your space feeling fresh and organized? If it’s been a while, don’t worry—you’re not alone.

Today, let’s have a little conversation about the steps to achieve that deep clean you’ve been putting off and how to tackle it without feeling overwhelmed. Ready to dive in? Let’s do this!

1. Set Your Intentions (and Your Playlist)

First things first, a deep clean is not a sprint, it’s more of a marathon. So, start by setting your intentions. What do you want to achieve by the end of this cleaning session? Maybe it’s a clutter-free kitchen, or maybe you want every corner of your home to sparkle. Whatever it is, get clear on your goals, and—trust me on this one—put on a playlist that pumps you up! Good music makes everything better, and cleaning is no exception.

Pro tip: Break it down into manageable chunks. Decide to tackle one room at a time, so it feels less overwhelming.

2. Declutter Before You Clean

Before you grab the cleaning supplies, do a quick sweep of each room and declutter. Clear out items that don’t belong, throw away the things you no longer need, and donate what you can. Why clean around the clutter when you can eliminate it first?

I find it helpful to use the “four-box method” for this: one box for trash, one for items to donate, one for items to relocate, and one for things to keep. It’s a great way to make sure you’re not just moving things from one room to another.

3. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

There’s nothing more annoying than getting into your cleaning groove and realizing you’ve forgotten the glass cleaner or the mop. Before you dive in, gather everything you need in one place—cleaning sprays, microfiber cloths, sponges, mops, a vacuum, and any specialized tools. That way, you can work efficiently without stopping to search for supplies.

If you’re feeling fancy, create a cleaning caddy! Having everything in one portable container will make it easy to move from room to room.

4. Start from the Top and Work Your Way Down

The key to an efficient deep clean is knowing the right direction to clean. You always want to start from the top and work your way down. Dust ceilings, light fixtures, and shelves first so that any dust or debris that falls lands on the floor, which you’ll clean later.

Remember: Don’t forget to clean the hard-to-reach places! Those neglected spots—like behind furniture, on top of cabinets, or under the bed—are where dust loves to hide.

5. Tackle One Room at a Time

Stick to one room at a time. This way, you’ll stay focused, streamlined and see progress faster, which will keep you motivated. Here’s a quick breakdown of how to tackle some key areas:

  • Kitchen: Empty and wipe down cabinets, clean appliances (inside and out), scrub countertops, and sanitize sinks. Don’t forget to clean your oven and microwave—two areas we tend to overlook.
  • Bathrooms: Scrub the shower, tub, and toilet thoroughly. Wash bathroom tiles and clean the grout. It’s also a great time to replace old towels and bath mats for a fresh feel.
  • Living room: Dust all surfaces, including shelves, picture frames, and electronics. Vacuum or steam-clean carpets and upholstery, and organize clutter like remote controls, books, or magazines.
  • Bedrooms: Strip the bed and launder all linens. Dust surfaces and clean under the bed (trust me, stuff hides under there). Organize your closet, and consider donating clothes you no longer wear.

6. Don’t Forget the Details

This is where a deep clean goes beyond your usual routine. Take time to clean the things you normally overlook, like:

  • Baseboards: Wipe them down with a damp cloth, and you’ll be amazed at how much dirt they collect.
  • Doors and light switches: These spots get touched constantly and are often covered in fingerprints and grime.
  • Windows: Wash both the interior and exterior for a clear, streak-free shine.
  • Vents and air filters: Clean vents and replace air filters to improve air quality in your home.

7. Deep Clean Floors and Carpets

Floors take a lot of wear and tear, and a regular vacuum just doesn’t cut it for a deep clean. If you have carpets, consider renting a carpet cleaner or hiring a professional service to really get rid of deep-set dirt. For hardwood, tile, or laminate floors, make sure to mop and disinfect after sweeping or vacuuming.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to move furniture to clean underneath!

8. Refresh with Finishing Touches

You’ve made it! Now, it’s time for the fun part—refreshing your space with some finishing touches. Light a candle, add fresh flowers, or fluff your pillows. These little details can elevate the entire vibe of your space and make it feel like home again.

Also, take a moment to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Walk through each room and admire your work—it’s rewarding to see the transformation you’ve created.