The change in seasons has a natural way of bringing out the deep cleaner in all of us. As summer ends and the cooler weather arrives, it’s time to switch wardrobes, swap out the quilt for a comforter, and get our homes ready for a warm and cozy winter.
Like most of 2020, this winter will be new territory for us as we continue to move through the impact of COVID-19. We have all learned more about viruses than we likely ever knew, and it’s from this new place of knowledge we get to move into winter.
If you are looking for the best fall deep clean, here’s a checklist to help get your home into tip-top cleanliness.
First, understand the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting. Cleaning removes dirt and grime, such as when you sweep salt and dirt off the porch from boots that carried snow and debris with them.
Sanitizing kills most bacteria from a surface and happens when we do laundry or use a cleaning product. It’s important to note that cleaners must be used according to their instructions, including the amount of time they need to sit wet on a surface. Not all cleaners are disinfectants, in which case you are sanitizing a surface.
Disinfectants are specialized cleaners that kill 99.99% of germs, bacteria, and viruses. If you are concerned about disinfecting, rather than just sanitizing, look at the label and follow the usage instructions precisely.
Second, make a list. Room by room, top to bottom is the standard protocol for cleaning companies. Following this pattern in your own home will help you detail your home more like a professional.
This may also be the time when you determine the level of clean you want – does the surface need to be simply wiped free of dust or will it be touched and therefore require sanitizing or disinfecting? Cleaning must always happen first, and a list will keep you from cross-contamination or from forgetting areas.
Third, consider its importance. Winter holidays often include hospitality. Consider what areas may need pre and post-cleaning with visitors in mind. What needs to be communicated to help guests feel comfortable? What needs to happen to help you and your family stay safe and comfortable during and after guests stay?
If you aren’t hosting guests, think about what may need to be cleaned to keep your home feeling and smelling fresh while doors and windows are closed. Think about areas that could cause airborne allergens, such as air vents, or where mold could grow.
Deep cleaning can be a project for the whole family, especially because it only happens a few times a year. Set a timer or otherwise make it a game to find the most grime. Reward the family, (or yourself) with a fun movie night or other activity and get your deep cleaning done quickly. Need professional help? Try a professional cleaning service to do the hard work for you.
Fall Deep Clean Checklist:
In order to get your mind thinking, here is a checklist of common areas that could use attention that are often forgotten:
- Grout – kitchen, bath, floors, and backsplashes with tile
- Appliances – inside and under appliances such as washer/dryers, refrigerators, and dishwashers
- Cabinets – condition wood and wipe inside cabinets
- Garbage cans – disinfect garbage can lids and insides
- Mattresses – vacuum mattresses and wash mattress pads
- Cushions – remove furniture cushions and wash them, wipe or vacuum under them
- Plants – wipe plant leaves, whether artificial or live
- Electronics – using appropriate electronic cleaner, wipe screens and controllers
- Windows – vacuum windowsills and steam or clean window coverings
If you want to keep your home clean year-round, A Cleaning Service is an award-winning cleaning company serving the Greater Washington DC, Virginia, and Maryland areas and would love to earn your trust. Read our reviews, then call us for a quote today. Let us help you keep your home healthy for every season with regular cleanings or a deep clean, so you can focus on the tasks and relationships that matter to you!