New Year's resolutions can take many forms. Some people focus on personal growth, while others consider their surroundings. As we approach 2024, you might want to think about giving your home a deep clean to welcome in the new year. It not only creates a comfortable and organized living space, but also sets a positive tone for the year. We're sharing our comprehensive deep cleaning tips so that you can start the new year out right.
The First Step: Decluttering
Before you start cleaning, it's best to declutter. This means removing items that are no longer needed or used. It could be clothes that no longer fit, old books gathering dust, or kitchen gadgets you haven't touched in years. In good condition? Sel, Consign,l or Donate them and give them a new life.
Once you've decluttered, it's time to come up with your deep clean gameplan. This can feel overwhelming, so we recommend breaking it down by room and creating a checklist to keep track of your progress.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
To get your whole house squeaky clean, you've got to have the right tools and supplies on hand. Check out this list of everything you might want to consider:
Supplies
- Vacuum Cleaner: A good vacuum cleaner is essential, preferably one with different attachments for carpets, hard floors, and hard-to-reach places.
- Microfiber Cloths: These are great for dusting and general surface cleaning. They're super absorbent and gentle on surfaces. Plus, they can be washed and reused multiple times.
- Cleaning Brushes: A set of brushes in various sizes is useful for scrubbing hard surfaces and small, detailed areas, such as grout lines.
- Mop and Bucket or Swiffer Wet Jets: These are necessary for washing hard floors. Microfiber mops are particularly effective.
- Plenty of Garbage Bags: You'll likely be throwing out a lot of clutter and trash. Make sure you have enough bags on hand.
- Rubber Gloves: Protect your hands while cleaning by using a pair of rubber gloves. They'll also help prevent the transfer of bacteria.
- Squeegees: Useful for cleaning windows and shower doors for a streak-free finish.
Cleaning Solutions
- All-Purpose Cleaner: It's always handy to have a versatile cleaner that can be used on a variety of surfaces. You can even make your own by mixing equal parts vinegar and water, which is effective and eco-friendly.
- Window Cleaner: For spotless, streak-free windows, a good quality window cleaner is a must. You can also use a mixture of vinegar, water, and a bit of dish soap.
- Bathroom Cleaner: Look for a cleaner that can effectively remove soap scum and hard water stains. A paste of baking soda and water can also be a safe and efficient option.
- Kitchen Degreaser: This is essential for cleaning ovens, stovetops, and other greasy kitchen surfaces. A homemade solution of baking soda, dish soap, and hot water can work wonders.
- Carpet Cleaner: For carpets, consider a cleaner that can tackle both stains and odors. A mixture of vinegar, warm water, and a small amount of dish soap can be an effective natural alternative.
- Wood Polish: If you have wooden furniture, a good quality wood polish can help keep it looking shiny and new. You can create a natural version by mixing olive oil, vinegar, and lemon juice.
- Baking Soda and White Vinegar: These natural ingredients can be used to clean a wide range of surfaces and are especially good for tackling stubborn stains and odors.
Remember, it's not just about having the tools but using them properly. Always read the instructions on any cleaning product and use the right tool for the task at hand. With these supplies, you'll be well-equipped to give your home the deep clean it deserves.
Room-by-Room Cleaning Checklist
Now that you have your supplies, it's time to get down to business. Here are some tips for tackling each room of your home:
Kitchen
- Start by decluttering your pantry, cabinets, and fridge. Discard expired or unused items.
- Remove all items from your countertops and wipe them down thoroughly.
- Clean the inside and outside of your appliances, including the microwave, oven, and dishwasher.
- Scrub your sink and clean out any food debris from the drain.
- Wipe down all surfaces with a natural cleaning solution. Don't forget to clean the inside of your drawers and cabinets as well.
- Sweep or vacuum the floors, then mop with a cleaner suitable for your flooring type.
Living Room and Dining Room
- Remove any clutter and dust all surfaces, including shelves, coffee tables, and entertainment centers.
- Vacuum couches and chairs thoroughly. If possible, remove cushion covers and wash them.
- Use a microfiber cloth to clean any electronic screens and surfaces such as TVs, computers, and gaming consoles.
- Dust and polish wooden furniture.
- Vacuum or mop floors, depending on the flooring type.
Bathroom
- Declutter your medicine cabinet and vanity. Discard expired products and items you no longer use.
- Scrub the toilet, sink, and bathtub/shower with a bathroom cleaner.
- Wipe down countertops, mirrors, and any other surfaces.
- Replace towels and bath mats with fresh ones.
- Clean the toilet thoroughly, including under the seat and around the base.
- Sweep or vacuum floors, then mop with a suitable cleaner.
Bedrooms
- Declutter closets, dressers, and under the bed. Donate or discard items as needed.
- Dust all surfaces, including nightstands and shelves.
- Wash sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and pillows. If possible, air out your mattresses.
- Vacuum or wash rugs and carpets.
Extra Tips for Deep Cleaning
Now that we've covered the basics of cleaning each room, let's dive into some additional tips that can help you take your deep cleaning to the next level.
- Don't forget about the walls: Dust them and spot clean any scuff marks or stains.
- Wash curtains, blinds, and other window treatments.
- Replace air filters in your HVAC system.
- Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans.
- Disinfect doorknobs, light switches, and other high-touch areas.
- Wipe down baseboards and molding.
- Dust and clean electronics, such as TVs, computers, and gaming consoles.
- Clean out your fridge and freezer, discarding any expired or unused items.
- Vacuum or steam clean upholstery to remove deep-seated dirt and odors.
By following these tips and using the right supplies, you can give your home a thorough deep cleaning that will leave it looking fresh and spotless.
Need Some Extra Space? Get a Go Mini's Portable Storage Container
While going through the deep cleaning process, you might find yourself overwhelmed with the amount of stuff you have in each room. This is where Go Mini's comes in. Our portable storage containers are the perfect solution to keep your belongings safe and out of the way during your cleaning spree.
Go Mini’s allows you to store your items in our containers right outside your doorstep, ensuring they are easily accessible when you need them again. This provides a clutter-free space for you to clean and allows you to sort through your belongings more efficiently once the cleaning is done. Plus, we'll deliver your container to you, and you can keep it as long as you need.
Once you're done with your clean and emptied out your container, we'll come pick it up — it just doesn't get more convenient. And with unit sizes ranging from 12 feet to 20 feet, you're sure to find the right fit for your project.
Use Go Mini's to Kickstart 2024 with a Full Home Deep Clean
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to a fresh start for the new year. Don't feel overwhelmed if you can't get everything done at once - deep cleaning is a process that can take time. Just focus on one room at a time, and before you know it, your home will be cleaner, more organized, and ready for 2024.
We understand that deep cleaning takes time, making our flexible rental terms ideal for projects just like this. Need to extend your rental? No problem, just give us a call to keep your container as long as you need it.
Start 2024 off on the right foot with a clean and decluttered home. And remember, Go Mini's is here to help you with all your storage needs during this process. Get a free instant quote today and learn how we can help make your deep clean more manageable. Happy cleaning!