We all need to deep clean our homes from time to time, but the process can become overwhelming if not appropriately planned. A deep clean goes beyond the regular everyday cleaning to reach the deep grime and dirt in your home. It requires special tools, techniques, and a considerable amount of time. The following list of 11 steps that I always follow before a deep clean helps me stay organized, manage my time better, and make the entire process less stressful.
1. Create a Cleaning Plan
Before diving into the deep-cleaning process, it’s essential to have a plan. I usually jot down a list of tasks that need to be done and the order in which they should be executed. This not only helps me stay organized, but it also ensures that no corner of the house is left uncleaned.
Start by inspecting every room in your house and noting down the areas that require special attention. Once you have a comprehensive list, prioritize the tasks based on their urgency or difficulty level. For instance, cleaning the bathroom and kitchen might take longer and should be scheduled at the start of the cleaning session when you have more energy.
2. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
There’s nothing more frustrating than starting to clean and then realizing you’re missing a crucial cleaning supply. To avoid this, gather all the cleaning supplies you’ll need before you start.
Make a list of the cleaning supplies required for each task in your cleaning plan. This may include multi-purpose cleaners, glass cleaners, bathroom cleaners, disinfecting wipes, scrub brushes, microfiber cloths, gloves, and garbage bags. Once you’ve got everything together, organize them in a portable caddy, which you can easily carry from room to room.
3. De-clutter
Before you start deep cleaning, it’s essential to de-clutter. Removing unnecessary items will make it easier to clean and allow you to reach those hidden spots that often collect dust and grime.
Start by going through each room and picking up items that don’t belong there. Place items in a basket to be sorted later, and throw away any trash. Once the visible clutter is gone, it’s time to tackle drawers, cupboards, and closets. Remember, the goal is to get rid of clutter, not to organize it. Keep the focus on what can be thrown away, donated, or sold.
4. Prepare Your Cleaning Solutions
Some cleaning tasks require special solutions, like a vinegar-water mix for windows or baking soda paste for stubborn stains. Preparing these solutions in advance can help you save time and make the cleaning process smoother.
You don’t need to buy expensive cleaning solutions from the store. There are plenty of homemade cleaning solutions that are cheap, effective, and environmentally friendly. For instance, a blend of vinegar and water makes a great glass cleaner, while a paste of baking soda and water can tackle stubborn stains. Make sure you label each solution correctly to avoid confusion.
5. Set a Timer
Deep cleaning can be a time-consuming task. Setting a timer for each task can help you stay on track and prevent you from spending too much time on one task.
Choose a reasonable time for each cleaning task, set a timer, and then get to work. Try to finish the task within the set time. If you don’t, move on to the next task. You can always come back to it later. This method keeps you focused and helps you maintain a steady pace.
6. Dress Appropriately
Deep cleaning can be a messy job, and it’s essential to wear the right clothes. Comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty are the best choice.
Wear something comfortable and easy to move in, like sweatpants and a t-shirt. Avoid wearing anything that you don’t want to get stained or ruined. Also, consider wearing gloves to protect your hands from harsh cleaning chemicals and a mask if you’re using strong-smelling cleaning solutions.
7. Put on Some Music
Cleaning can be boring, but some upbeat music can make the process fun and enjoyable. Plus, it can boost your energy levels and make you work faster.
Choose a playlist with your favorite upbeat songs and play it loud. You’ll be surprised how much faster and enjoyable cleaning can be with a good soundtrack.
8. Keep Hydrated
Cleaning is a physical task, and it’s important to stay hydrated. Keep a bottle of water nearby to ensure you drink enough during the cleaning process.
You might be so focused on cleaning that you forget to drink water. But dehydration can make you feel tired and decrease your cleaning efficiency. So, make sure to take regular water breaks.
9. Ventilate Your Home
When you’re deep cleaning, you’re likely to stir up dust and use cleaning products that can create strong odors. So, it’s important to ventilate your home properly.
Open all windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate. This will help to reduce the amount of dust and strong cleaning product odors in your home, making the cleaning process more pleasant.
10. Do a Quick Clean
Before you start deep cleaning, do a quick clean. This involves wiping down surfaces, dusting, and vacuuming. It helps to clear away surface dirt and dust, making the deep cleaning process more effective.
This preliminary clean doesn’t need to be thorough – you’re just trying to get rid of the top layer of dirt and dust. This makes your deep clean easier and more effective.
11. Take Breaks
Deep cleaning is a big job, and it’s important to take breaks. This helps to prevent exhaustion and keeps your energy levels up.
Schedule short breaks throughout your cleaning session. During your break, step outside for some fresh air, have a snack, or just sit down and relax. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint, and keeping your energy up is essential for an effective deep clean.
