How to Deep Clean Your House

Compared to regular cleaning, deep cleaning takes more time as it addresses often-neglected areas to reduce clutter and allergens, making your home safer. Deep cleaning is usually done once or twice a year and involves a thorough, systematic approach to ensure every nook and cranny of your home is spotless.

Here’s how to properly deep clean your house, broken down into manageable stages.

Stage 1: Pre-clean

1. Pick Up Clutter

Go from room to room, picking up misplaced items.
Return items to their rightful places to reduce surface clutter.

2. Clean and Put Away Dishes

Ensure all dishes are clean and stored properly.
Wipe down kitchen counters to start with a clean surface.

3. Clear and Wipe Down Surfaces

Remove items from countertops, tables, and other surfaces.
Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime.

Stage 2: Top Zone

1. Dust Upper Ledges and Cabinets

Use a duster or vacuum to remove dust from high ledges and cabinet tops.
Clean these areas thoroughly as they often accumulate significant dust.

2. Clean Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures

Dust or wipe down ceiling fans and light fixtures.
Use a step ladder to reach these high spots safely.

3. Clean Air Vents and Replace Filters

Remove dust from air vents and replace air filters.
This helps improve air quality and reduces allergens.

4. Clean High Windows

Use a window cleaner and cloth to clean high windows.
Ensure all corners and edges are free from grime.

5. Remove Cobwebs and Change Light Bulbs

Check corners for cobwebs and remove them.
Replace any burnt-out light bulbs to ensure proper lighting.

Stage 3: Mid-to-Top Zone

1. Wash and Re-hang Curtains

Take down curtains and wash them according to the care label.
Iron and re-hang them for a fresh, clean look.

2. Clean Blinds

Use a cloth and vinegar solution to wipe down blinds.
Ensure all slats are free from dust and dirt.

3. Wash Windows

Clean windows thoroughly with a window cleaner.
Wipe down window sills and frames.

4. Dust Shelves and Tall Furniture

Dust bookshelves, tall furniture, and other eye-level surfaces.
Use a microfiber cloth to capture dust effectively.

5. Clean Mirrors and Wall Hangings

Dust and clean mirrors, clocks, pictures, and other wall hangings.
Ensure all glass surfaces are streak-free.

Stage 4: Mid-to-Low Zone

1. Clean Upholstered Furniture

Vacuum and spot clean upholstered furniture.
Use appropriate cleaners for fabric or leather.

2. Polish Wood Furniture

Use a wood polish to clean and shine wooden furniture.
Wipe down surfaces to remove any residue.

3. Remove Stains from Furniture

Use rubbing alcohol to remove stains from microfiber couches.
Treat any other furniture stains with suitable cleaners.

4. Dust Surfaces and Change Bed Linens

Dust all surfaces including tables, desks, and dressers.
Change and wash bed linens for a fresh feel.

5. Clean Bathroom Fixtures

Clean sinks, counters, toilets, bathtubs, and showers.
Use vinegar, baking soda, and other natural cleaners for tough spots.

6. Deep Clean Kitchen Appliances and Cabinets

Use a combination of vinegar, baking soda, ice cubes, lemons, and rock salt to clean kitchen appliances and cabinets.
Focus on removing grease and built-up grime.

Stage 5: Bottom Zone

1. Vacuum Carpets and Rugs

Vacuum all carpets and rugs thoroughly.
Pay attention to corners and under furniture.

2. Steam Clean Carpets

Steam clean carpets to remove deep-seated stains and odors.
Use vinegar and baking soda for oil-based stains.

3. Dust Baseboards

Dust and wipe down baseboards to remove accumulated dirt.
Use a damp cloth for stubborn spots.

4. Sweep and Mop Hard Floors

Sweep all hard floors to remove loose dirt and debris.
Mop floors using appropriate cleaners for tile, linoleum, or wood.

5. Clean Porches and Steps

Sweep and clean front and back porches and steps.
Ensure these areas are free from debris and dirt.

Conclusion

The top-to-bottom approach is the most efficient way to deep clean your house. By starting with the highest areas and working your way down, you can ensure that all dirt and dust are captured in the final stages of cleaning. Depending on the size and condition of your home, deep cleaning can take one or two days.

Some areas, like the kitchen, bathroom, and garage, may require additional time and effort. If the task feels overwhelming, consider enlisting help from family members or hiring professional cleaners to ensure every area of your home is thoroughly cleaned. By deep cleaning once or twice a year, you can maintain a clutter-free, allergen-reduced, and safe living environment.