Preparing for Your Deep Clean

Before diving into specific rooms, proper preparation will make your deep cleaning more efficient and effective:

General Preparation Tips:

• Gather Your Supplies: Having everything ready prevents interruptions that can derail your momentum.
• Work Top to Bottom: Always start cleaning from the highest points (ceiling fans, upper shelves) and work your way down to avoid re-cleaning areas.
• Work Room by Room: Focusing on one space at a time provides a sense of accomplishment and prevents feeling overwhelmed.
• Declutter First: Remove items from surfaces before cleaning to ensure thorough access.
• Ventilate: Open windows when weather permits to improve air circulation during and after cleaning.

Essential Deep Cleaning Supplies:

• Microfiber cloths (multiple colors for different areas)
• Extension duster for high places
• Vacuum with attachments
• Mop and bucket
• Scrub brushes in various sizes
• All-purpose cleaner
• Glass cleaner
• Bathroom disinfectant
• Oven and appliance cleaners
• Protective gloves
• Step ladder for reaching high areas safely

Kitchen Deep Cleaning

The kitchen typically requires the most intensive deep cleaning due to food preparation, grease accumulation, and high usage.

Appliance Cleaning:

Refrigerator

1. Empty all contents, discarding expired items.
2. Remove and wash shelves and drawers in warm soapy water.
3. Wipe interior surfaces with a solution of 1 tablespoon baking soda dissolved in 1 quart warm water.
4. Clean door seals thoroughly with a toothbrush dipped in mild soapy water.
5. Vacuum refrigerator coils (usually located at the back or underneath).
6. Pull the refrigerator away from the wall to clean behind and underneath.

Oven

1. Remove racks and soak in hot soapy water.
2. For self-cleaning ovens, use the self-clean function following manufacturer instructions.
3. For manual cleaning, apply oven cleaner according to product directions.
4. Scrub oven interior with non-abrasive scrubbers.
5. Clean oven door, including between glass panels if accessible.
6. Scrub racks before returning them to the oven.

Dishwasher

1. Remove and clean the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher.
2. Check and clean spray arms, removing any food debris from the holes.
3. Wipe door edges and seals with a damp cloth.
4. Run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of white vinegar.

Microwave

1. Heat a microwave-safe bowl of water with lemon slices for 3-5 minutes to steam-clean.
2. Wipe interior walls, ceiling, and turntable.
3. Remove and wash the turntable in soapy water.
4. Clean exterior, including the top where grease accumulates.

Other Kitchen Areas:

• Cabinets: Empty and wipe inside; clean exterior surfaces and handles; address grease buildup on upper cabinets.
• Countertops: Clear completely and clean with an appropriate cleaner for your counter material.
• Sink and Fixtures: Scrub with baking soda paste; pour boiling water down drains followed by baking soda and vinegar to freshen.
• Range Hood: Remove and clean the filter; degrease the hood interior and exterior.
• Small Appliances: Unplug and deep clean toasters, coffee makers, blenders, etc.
• Backsplash: Clean thoroughly, paying special attention to grout lines if tiled.
• Floors: Move appliances and furniture where possible to clean underneath.

Bathroom Deep Cleaning

Bathrooms require special attention to sanitization and removal of soap scum, mildew, and mineral deposits.

Step-by-Step Bathroom Deep Clean:

1. Clear Surfaces: Remove all items from counters, tub edges, and shower caddies.
2. Apply Cleaners: Spray shower/tub surfaces with appropriate cleaners and allow them to work while cleaning other areas.
3. Clean Exhaust Fan: Turn off power, remove the cover, vacuum dust, and wipe clean.
4. Clean Light Fixtures: Dust and clean light fixtures and replace any burnt-out bulbs.
5. Sanitize Toilet:
   • Apply toilet bowl cleaner and let sit
   • Clean exterior surfaces, including often-missed areas like behind the toilet and base
   • Scrub bowl interior with a toilet brush
   • Disinfect the flush handle and seat
6. Tackle the Shower/Tub:
   • Scrub walls and floor, paying special attention to corners and seams
   • Clean showerhead (soak in vinegar if mineral deposits are present)
   • Clean shower door tracks or curtain liner
   • Address grout lines with a specialized cleaner and brush
7. Clean Sink Area:
   • Scrub sink basin and faucets
   • Clean counter surfaces
   • Wipe down cabinet exteriors and hardware
   • Clean mirror with glass cleaner
8. Address Storage Areas: Empty and clean medicine cabinet, under-sink storage, and linen closets.
9. Floors: Vacuum or sweep, then mop with disinfecting cleaner.
10. Refresh Supplies: Replace shower curtain liner if necessary, refill soap dispensers, and restock toilet paper.

Tackling Tough Bathroom Problems:

• Mold and Mildew: Use a solution of one part bleach to ten parts water (ensure good ventilation) or a commercial mildew remover.
• Hard Water Stains: Apply white vinegar or a specialized lime and calcium remover; let sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing.
• Clogged Drains: Use a drain snake or plunger, followed by a baking soda and vinegar treatment.
• Discolored Grout: Apply a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide; scrub with an old toothbrush.

Bedroom Deep Cleaning

Bedrooms should be havens for rest, which makes controlling dust and allergens especially important.

Bedroom Deep Cleaning Checklist:

1. Declutter: Remove and organize items that don't belong; clear surfaces for effective cleaning.
2. Strip the Bed: Wash all bedding including mattress pad, pillows (if washable), and duvet covers.
3. Refresh the Mattress:
   • Vacuum thoroughly using upholstery attachment
   • Spot clean stains with appropriate cleaners
   • Deodorize by sprinkling baking soda, letting sit for several hours, then vacuuming
   • Rotate or flip mattress if recommended by manufacturer
4. Dust Ceiling and Corners: Use an extension duster to remove cobwebs and dust.
5. Clean Light Fixtures: Dust ceiling fans, chandeliers, and lamp shades.
6. Tackle Windows:
   • Dust blinds or wash curtains according to their care instructions
   • Clean window tracks and sills
   • Wash windows inside and out if accessible
7. Clean Furniture:
   • Empty and clean inside drawers
   • Dust and polish wood surfaces
   • Vacuum upholstered items
   • Move furniture to clean underneath and behind
8. Address Closets:
   • Consider seasonal clothing rotation
   • Clean closet floors and shelves
   • Wipe down doors and hardware
9. Clean Floors: Vacuum carpets thoroughly; mop hard floors with appropriate cleaner.
10. Air Out: Open windows when weather permits to exchange air and allow fresh circulation.

Addressing Bedroom Allergens:

For those with allergies or asthma, additional steps can help create a healthier sleep environment:

• Consider dust mite-proof covers for mattresses and pillows
• Wash bedding in hot water (at least 130°F) to kill dust mites
• Reduce fabric items like decorative pillows that collect dust
• Consider replacing heavy drapes with washable options
• Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter

Living Room Deep Cleaning

Living rooms experience high traffic and frequent use, making them prime areas for dust accumulation and hidden dirt.

Living Room Deep Cleaning Process:

1. Declutter and Organize: Remove items that don't belong; organize magazines, remote controls, etc.
2. Dust from Top to Bottom:
   • Ceiling corners and crown molding
   • Light fixtures and ceiling fans
   • Wall décor, picture frames, and shelves
   • Electronics and entertainment centers
   • Lampshades and decorative items
3. Clean Soft Furnishings:
   • Vacuum upholstered furniture, including under cushions and crevices
   • Spot clean stains on sofas and chairs
   • Wash or dry clean throw pillows and blankets according to care labels
   • Steam clean upholstery if heavily soiled
4. Refresh Window Treatments:
   • Vacuum or dust blinds
   • Launder curtains if possible
   • Clean window tracks, sills, and glass
5. Clean Hard Surfaces:
   • Dust and polish wooden furniture
   • Clean glass tables with streak-free cleaner
   • Sanitize high-touch surfaces like remote controls, doorknobs, and light switches
6. Address Electronics:
   • Dust TV screens with microfiber cloth
   • Clean remote controls with alcohol wipes
   • Dust gaming consoles, speakers, and other equipment
   • Organize and secure cords
7. Deep Clean Floors:
   • Move furniture to vacuum and clean underneath
   • Steam clean carpets or shampoo area rugs
   • Mop hard floors with appropriate cleaner
   • Clean baseboards and heat registers

Special Considerations for Living Areas:

• Fireplace Cleaning: Have chimneys professionally cleaned annually; clean glass doors; remove ash and debris.
• Air Purification: Consider using an air purifier to maintain air quality between deep cleanings.
• Pet-Related Cleaning: Give special attention to areas where pets spend time; use enzymatic cleaners for pet stains.

Dining Room Deep Cleaning

Dining areas collect food particles and spills that may not be immediately visible but can attract pests if not addressed.

Dining Room Focus Areas:

• Table and Chairs:
  • Clean table according to material (wood polish, glass cleaner, etc.)
  • Pay special attention to table edges and undersides where food particles collect
  • Clean chair seats, backs, and legs; address upholstery if applicable
  • Check chair joints and tighten if necessary
• China Cabinet/Buffet:
  • Remove items and dust thoroughly
  • Clean glass components with streak-free cleaner
  • Polish wood surfaces
  • Consider washing rarely used dishes and serving pieces
• Area Rugs: Vacuum thoroughly; treat spots; consider professional cleaning for valuable or delicate rugs.
• Light Fixtures: Dust chandelier or fixture; wash removable glass components if applicable.
• Wall Décor: Dust picture frames, mirrors, and other wall hangings.
• Floor Under Table: Move table to clean thoroughly where food particles typically accumulate.

Home Office Deep Cleaning

With more Canadians working from home than ever before, office spaces require special attention during deep cleaning.

Office Cleaning Priorities:

1. Organize Papers and Supplies: Sort through papers; shred unnecessary documents; organize office supplies.
2. Clean Technology:
   • Power down and unplug all devices
   • Dust monitors with microfiber cloth
   • Clean keyboards with compressed air and electronics-safe wipes
   • Sanitize mouse, phone, and other frequently touched items
   • Organize and secure cables
3. Address Desk Surface: Clear completely and clean with appropriate product for the material.
4. Clean Office Chair: Vacuum fabric elements; wipe down arms and base; check and tighten mechanisms.
5. Organize Files: Sort through filing cabinets and storage boxes; implement improved organizational systems if needed.
6. Clean Light Sources: Dust desk lamps; clean light fixture covers; replace bulbs as needed.
7. Dust Bookshelves: Remove books and items; dust shelves; reorganize as you replace items.
8. Clean Windows and Window Treatments: Ensure natural light can enter unobstructed.
9. Vacuum/Clean Floors: Pay special attention to areas under the desk and around the chair.

Entry and Hallway Deep Cleaning

Entryways and hallways are high-traffic transition spaces that often collect dirt from the outside world.

Entryway Cleaning Focus:

• Address Floor Mats: Shake out, vacuum, or wash entry mats.
• Organize Shoes and Outerwear: Clean storage benches, coat racks, or closets; donate unused items.
• Clean Door: Wash both sides of the entry door; clean hardware; dust doorframes.
• Walls and Baseboards: Check for scuff marks and clean walls; wipe down baseboards.
• Light Fixtures: Dust and clean entry lighting; replace burnt-out bulbs.
• Windows and Sidelights: Clean any glass elements near the entry.
• Mail Organization: Create or refresh a system for incoming mail and packages.
• Deep Clean Floors: Pay special attention to corners and edges where dirt accumulates.

Hallway Cleaning:

• Dust wall art and décor
• Clean light fixtures
• Wipe down handrails if present
• Check for cobwebs in corners and ceiling
• Clean floor thoroughly, moving any hall tables or storage furniture

Laundry Room Deep Cleaning

Laundry rooms can harbor lint, detergent residue, and moisture-related issues if not regularly deep cleaned.

Laundry Room Checklist:

1. Clean Washer:
   • Run an empty hot water cycle with vinegar or washing machine cleaner
   • Clean dispensers for detergent and fabric softener
   • Wipe door seal (front loaders) or under lid (top loaders)
   • Leave door open when not in use to prevent mildew
2. Maintain Dryer:
   • Empty lint trap and clean with soap and water if clogged
   • Vacuum behind and underneath the dryer
   • Check and clean exterior vent
   • Consider professional dryer vent cleaning for fire safety
3. Organize Supplies: Sort through detergents, stain removers, and other products; discard expired items.
4. Clean Sink: If present, thoroughly clean and disinfect utility sink.
5. Wipe Down Surfaces: Clean countertops, shelving, and any folding areas.
6. Check for Leaks: Inspect hoses and connections for signs of leaks or wear.
7. Clean Floors: Mop thoroughly, moving appliances if possible to reach underneath.

Basement and Storage Areas

Basements and storage areas often become catch-all spaces that benefit tremendously from periodic deep cleaning.

Basement Deep Cleaning:

• Check for Moisture Issues: Look for signs of water infiltration or condensation; address root causes.
• Dust and Vacuum Exposed Areas: Clean exposed rafters, ductwork, and pipes.
• Organize Storage: Sort through stored items; consider plastic bins with lids instead of cardboard boxes.
• Clean Mechanical Areas: Dust around furnace, water heater, and electrical panels (never use water near electrical components).
• Address Spider Webs and Insects: Remove cobwebs and consider appropriate pest control measures.
• Check Windows: Clean windows and wells; ensure they close properly.
• Clean Stairs: Vacuum or sweep stairs; wash treads if finished.
• Clean Floors: Sweep concrete floors; consider sealing if unpainted; mop finished floors.