Cleaning often falls into two categories. The first is the regular cleaning that we all need to do, week in and week out. That includes laundry, cleaning the kitchen, cleaning the bathroom, vacuuming and dusting, etc. It also includes periodically cleaning your appliances.  

The second is deep cleaning. For many of us, this is an annual ritual done in the spring. Or, it could be done before guests arrive. It involves going beyond the basics to the tasks that only need to be done a few times a year. 

What tasks that should be on your deep cleaning checklist? We’re glad you asked! 

All Living Spaces 

Start from the top and work your way to the floor. Clean ceiling fans, chandeliers, and other light fixtures. Clean surfaces, including behind or under furniture and appliances. Steam clean or spot clean upholstered furniture. Clean baseboards.  

Wipe down the walls and spot clean to remove smudges or stains. Use a melamine foam to remove scuffs and scratches or cover them with a dab of leftover paint. Wash windows inside and out, including windowsills and shades or blinds. 

Deep clean your carpets. This can be a good time to rent a steam cleaner if you need one or bring in a service to help. 

If you have a fireplace, make sure to clean it out or have that service scheduled. Clean out any air vents and change the filters as needed.  

Bedroom 

Wash all of the bedding, including blankets and pillows. Before making the bed again, deep clean the mattress. Clean out closets, clean scuffs off the walls, then reorganize and return clothes and other items. 

Bathroom 

There aren’t many spots that aren’t on the regular cleaning list but pay attention to storage spaces. Empty out the medicine cabinet or cupboards and clean the shelves. Take time to remove and properly dispose of any expired medications or products before returning items to the shelves. 

Kitchen 

Run the self-cleaning cycle on your oven or get an oven cleaner to do it by hand. Clean under and behind the refrigerator. Remove items from the cabinets, then wipe them out. This is also a good opportunity to empty and reorganize pantry space. 

Storage Spaces 

Whether it’s a closet, basement, garage or another space you use for storage, it’s a good idea to clean the space annually. Take things out, sweep or vacuum the floors, and take the time to reorganize as you put things away again. If you have a sump pump in your basement, this is also a good time to clean that out. 

Remember that you don’t have to do all these tasks at once. If it helps to break them up throughout the year, that works, too. Just make sure to commit to a cadence. It can be easy to forget things that only need to be done occasionally.