The holiday season is upon us, which means it's time to prepare your home for guests and holiday festivities! Whether you're hosting family dinners or holiday parties, a clean, cozy, and organized home sets the perfect holiday atmosphere.
Preparing for the Holiday Season
Preparation is half the battle when it comes to cleaning up your home for the holiday season. From cleaning supplies to guest essentials, here are a few things to keep in mind when preparing your house this holiday season:
Cleaning Supplies
Stock up on cleaning supplies that will make your job easier, like sponges, microfiber cloths, and paper towels. Avoid purchasing cleaning solutions with harsh chemicals. Store-bought cleaners often contain ingredients that aren't good for you or your home. When in doubt, opt for natural cleaners like baking soda, white vinegar, and water.
Guest Prep
Take a quick inventory of essentials—like extra toiletries, hand towels, and paper products—so you're well-stocked before guests arrive. Preparing for overnight guests is also important. Stocking bathrooms and guest rooms with extra towels, toiletries, and clean linens ensures they feel comfortable and at home.
Holiday Decor
Whether you're a fan of decorating for Christmas right after Halloween or like to extend the fall months, decorating your home to match the feel of the holidays is an important part of the season. Whether it's Thanksgiving or Christmas, be sure to incorporate those special touches that make your home feel like a holiday paradise!
Room-by-Room Holiday Cleaning Guide
Using a room-by-room checklist can help you tackle one task at a time, making holiday prep feel more manageable. A holiday cleaning checklist will help you stay organized, prioritize tasks, and avoid last-minute scrambles.
Living Room
Your living room is where guests will gather to relax, so give it the attention it deserves.
Dust overhead light fixtures
Clean windows
Dust and sanitize surfaces
Organize and clear away clutter
Vacuum rugs and carpets
Straighten pillows and blankets
Throw away trash
Once cleaned, you might add a few cozy holiday touches to make the room warm and welcoming. Holiday-themed throw pillows and blankets can give your living area a comfortable feel.
Kitchen
In the kitchen, cleanliness is crucial, especially with food preparation.
Scrub down countertops
Sanitize appliances and cabinets
Sweep and mop floors
Clean and wipe down the refrigerator
Declutter drawers and cabinets
Clean windows
Clean your dishwasher
Take inventory of the pantry and freezer
Clean the garbage can
Clean the microwave
Disinfect the sink
Bathrooms
A quick bathroom deep clean will ensure a hygienic and inviting space for guests.
Clean sink and counters
Sanitize the toilet
Scrub the shower and tub
Sweep and mop floors
Clean mirrors
Wash shower mat
Wipe down light switches and handles
Empty trash cans
Replenish toilet paper and hand soap
Dining Room
Your dining room is where you'll be sharing meals and memories, so it's worth the extra effort to make the space inviting.
Sweep and mop floors
Vacuum any area rugs
Clean windows
Wipe down tables and chairs
Dust surfaces
Don't forget to double-check that all dinnerware and silverware are clean and ready for your holiday feasts.
Guest Room
If you are expecting overnight guests for the holidays, it's important to double-check and clean your guest room.
Change sheets
Dust furniture and surfaces
Vacuum floors
Wash windows, including blinds
Clear clutter
If you're feeling fancy, you might include a few holiday touches, like scented candles, festive pillows, and other on-theme decorations.
Other High-Traffic Areas
In addition to the living room, kitchen, bathroom, dining room, and guest room, there are other high-traffic areas in your home that require extra attention during the holiday season. These spots include the family room and entryway. To keep these spaces clean and tidy, consider the following tips:
Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture: Regularly vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove dirt and dust that can accumulate quickly, especially with increased foot traffic.
Wipe down surfaces: Use a damp paper towel to quickly wipe down surfaces, removing fingerprints and spills that can make your home look untidy.
Organize clutter: Tidy up any clutter or toys to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for your holiday guests.
Set up a boot tray: Place a boot tray or mat at the entryway to catch dirt and snow from guests' boots, helping to keep your floors clean.
Tidy up your coat closet: Having a convenient area by the entrance for guests to store their coats goes a long way in keeping the space open and inviting.
By paying extra attention to these high-traffic areas, you can create a warm and welcoming environment for your holiday guests.
Final Cleaning Touches
Finish off your holiday prep with a few thoughtful details. Adjust the thermostat to a comfortable temperature, set out holiday-scented candles or diffusers for a cozy aroma, and have holiday music ready to play.
Zerorez: The Key to a Stress-Free Holiday Clean
If you're feeling overwhelmed with holiday cleaning and hosting responsibilities, don't be afraid to ask for help. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, Zerorez Asheville is here to help you create a clean, fresh, and comfortable home for you and your guests. Our services—including carpet cleaning, rug cleaning, air duct cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, and upholstery cleaning—provide a deeper clean, removing dirt and dust that standard cleaning may miss.
Ready to check off the big tasks from your holiday cleaning list? Book a holiday clean with Zerorez and welcome your guests into a beautifully clean home that's ready for the season!