12 Days of Holiday Cleaning Checklist

12 Days of Holiday Cleaning Checklist

While the holidays are a magical time of year, they can be stressful for many. Here at MaidPro, while we can't help with the cooking or shopping, we can help take the stress out of cleaning. In the spirit of the season, we have compiled a easy, step-by-step approach to preparing your home for guests this season.

Instead of being overwhelmed and attempting to clean your house all at once, we encourage you to approach it in these easy to accomplish "12 Days of Cleaning" tasks:

Right-click to save or screenshot this image to keep track of your cleaning tasks!

Day 1: Declutter Go through each common area room to assess any problem areas needing attention and remove unnecessary items using bins or bags for donations. Move all items to the rooms where they belong. For example, if kids' toys are cluttering the living area, the first step is to collect toys from across the house and move them to the child's bedroom or toy room. If you have stacks of mail, sort through and file the important items and trash anything that's not needed. Drop off donation items the same day, so that the bags are out of your way.

Day 2: Entryway The entryway is often the first impression of your home for your guests. It's also a small space, so it will not take much time to sparkle! Pick up any lingering items like shoes, mail, Amazon boxes, or school bags, then vacuum or sweep and mop the floors. Create a designated spot for jackets and shoes so there isn't a tripping hazard. If needed, consider adding hooks to the area for hanging coats or a bench-style seat for putting on shoes.

Day 3: Guest Bedrooms Change bedding and fluff pillows. Clear surfaces of personal items and thoroughly vacuum, polish, and dust. If your home runs cooler in that room, place a space heater or an extra blanket for your guest's ultimate comfort. Surprise your guest, if you've got an extra coffeemaker, by making them a coffee station where they won't have to wake other household members and can lounge a bit longer in the comfort of your cozy guestroom.

Day 4: Dining Areas Dust and detail your dining table and chairs. Don't forget the legs of the chairs and where the back and the bottom meet. Those are often overlooked but noticeable when pulling out the chair to sit. Sweep, mop, vacuum, dust, set centerpieces, and ensure all plates and utensils are clean and organized.

Day 5: Windows & Sills Grab a spray bottle of window cleaner, a roll of paper towels, and several microfiber towels, and visit each window in your home. Start by raising the blinds, then thoroughly spray the glass and let the cleaner sit for at least 30 seconds. Using a paper towel and starting from the top, wipe the spray off your windows. Next, open the window and wipe down the sills. Use the microfiber cloths as the final pass on the glass to ensure a streak-free shine.

Day 6: Light Fixtures & Fans Turn off all ceiling fans and lights and grab your duster! In each room, dust all light fixtures and fans to remove buildup and spider webs. In the bathrooms, check vanity lights to remove dust or haze. Replace any burned-out bulbs.

Day 7: Living Areas Dust all the nooks, crannies, and neglected spots like the mantle, shelves, side tables, and valances. Thoroughly vacuum carpets, taking care to go in both directions. Use your vacuum brush attachment to get blinds, baseboards, and between couch cushions. If you have a fireplace, remove all ashes and prepare firewood, in case the weather calls for a nice, cozy fire during the holidays.

Day 8: Bathrooms Thoroughly scrub sinks, toilets, and tubs. If you have glass enclosures, thoroughly clean the glass to remove soap scum or hard water buildup. Ensure you have plenty of soap, the toilet paper is stocked in its holder, and clean towels are available. Include a candle, room spray, or potpourri for a finishing touch.

Day 9: Kitchen Start with the appliances and clean inside and out. The microwave, oven, and refrigerator are essential to the success of your meal, and you'll want to give them some extra love. Next, toss expired items from your pantry and fridge. Using a microfiber cloth with water and a drop of dish soap, wipe down cabinet fronts to remove any drips or smudges. Then, wipe down counters, and finally, take a pass at baseboards, under cabinets, and floors. Working your way from top to bottom will make the process most efficient.

Day 10: Floors Go back and vacuum or sweep and mop floors in all common areas. Don't forget to edge and remember to look high, low, and in between for any areas needing a spruce-up before the big day.

Day 11: Final Touches Do a final walk through and inspection of each room. Arrange throw pillows and blankets. Place candles where you'll want them for lighting and ambiance. These special details create a warm and welcoming environment.

Day 12: Relax & Enjoy! The cleaning is done, and guests will be arriving soon. This is the time to pat yourself on the back for a job well done and reflect on how much you've accomplished in creating a welcoming home for the holidays!

Running out of time?

The easiest way to a clean house is to let the PROs handle it for you. Give us a call at 877-624-3776 or complete the contact form, and we'll call you to offer a free quote and schedule: House Cleaning Services Estimate

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