If you’ve been on vacation, you’re probably ready to get back into a routine. Unfortunately, returning home from summer vacation can mean that your house is in need of some cleaning—especially if you have kids or pets that spent the time away exploring and getting dirty. That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide to help you clean up after your return so that everyone can get back into their normal routine as soon as possible!
Exchanging air in your home by opening windows and doors
Now that you’ve made your list, it’s time to get started on the first item. To exchange air in your home by opening windows and doors:
- Open the windows and doors in your home. This will allow fresh air to circulate throughout the house, freshening it up after a long summer vacation season. Be sure to keep an eye on any pets that may be roaming around outside; if they are used to being indoors during certain times of day (such as during work hours), let them know that things have changed now that you’re back at home full-time.
- If necessary, use a fan safely placed out of reach of children or pets while you’re away from home—and don’t leave while the fan is running!
Cleaning blinds, windows, and curtains
Cleaning blinds, windows and curtains is a great way to freshen up your home. You can use a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and dust from these items, but be sure not to use it on glass surfaces as this may cause damage. If you have dusty blinds or curtains that don’t need washing, try using a damp cloth instead of water in case there’s any moisture trapped between the layers of fabric (which could lead to mold growth). And if there are stains on your curtains or blinds that won’t come out by washing them in warm water, consider pre-treating them with stain remover before putting them through the wash cycle again.
Washing bedding and linens
Once you’ve packed up your summer clothes, it’s time to take care of the linens. Wash all bedding and clothing for the beds, including sheets, blankets and pillows. If you plan on reusing your bedding for next summer vacation, wash them together with regular laundry detergent in cold water.
If you have machine-washable pillowcases or dust ruffles on the beds that have become dirty with dust or pollen during the season then make sure to wash them as well.
In general avoid drying clothes in direct sunlight because they can fade faster than those dried indoors in artificial light conditions (which often contains ultraviolet light).
You will notice that there is a lot of work and details to pay attention to. Simply put, after a trip, a general clean from floor to ceiling is needed to prepare for the new season. It’s very difficult when the work days start, so it’s always easier to do it with the experts at Simply Spotless Cleaning. When you have someone to do all the hard work, it will be a real treat to come back from vacation.
Spot cleaning walls and wash any areas with sand or dirt on them
Use a sponge or soft cloth to spot clean walls and wash any areas with sand or dirt on them. Use soap and water, then rinse with water. Finally, dry with a clean towel.
Cleaning upholstered furniture
- Use a vacuum with a hose attachment or upholstery brush to remove hair, dirt, and other debris from the furniture.
- Wipe down the surface of the furniture using a clean cloth dipped in warm water and mild soap. Let it air dry for several days until it’s completely dry before using it again.
Deep clean bathrooms
Use bleach or other sanitizers to remove mildew and bacteria from shower curtains, tubs and toilets (the latter being notoriously difficult to clean). When using bleach products on tubs or toilets, be sure not to mix them with any other cleaners — they react badly together!
Clean Up the Kitchen
After spending all summer in the kitchen, it’s no wonder your kitchen is a disaster. Get rid of all those dirty dishes left stacked in the sink or piled up in the dishwasher. Wipe down all countertops, appliances and cabinets with an antibacterial cleaner to remove any lingering germs from the summer season. Scrub down the stovetop and microwave with baking soda and water to remove stains and odors.
We hope this list of tips was helpful to you. We know that cleaning can be a drag, but it does not have to be! It’s important to stay positive about the work you do around your home and remember that keeping it clean is only one way of showing your love for yourself, family and friends.