three assorted-color throw pillows on black leather couch

DIY Guide: Cleaning a Home from Top to Bottom in Just One Day

A sparkling clean home doesn’t just look great; it feels great too.

A sparkling clean home doesn’t just look great; it feels great too. Whether you’re preparing for guests, staging your property, or simply creating a healthier living environment, tackling your home with a top-to-bottom cleaning plan can make all the difference. This DIY guide will walk you through the process of cleaning your entire house in one day, and if you’re short on time, you can always consider house cleaning services or professional deep cleaning for extra help.

Step 1: Plan Your Cleaning Day (30 Minutes)

Before jumping in, it’s essential to prepare properly. Without a clear plan, you risk wasting time or skipping areas.

1. Gather Your Supplies
For a productive cleaning day, make sure you have the following essentials:

  • Microfiber cloths

  • All-purpose cleaner

  • Glass cleaner

  • Mop and bucket

  • Scrubbing brushes

  • Baking soda and vinegar

  • Trash bags

  • Vacuum cleaner with attachments

Having these tools handy ensures efficiency and reduces unnecessary trips around the house.

2. Divide and Conquer
Divide your home into manageable zones:

  • Bedrooms

  • Living room

  • Kitchen

  • Bathrooms

  • Hallways and entryways

Allocate time for each zone based on its size and level of dirt. Stick to your schedule to finish within a day.

Step 2: Declutter for a Fresh Start (1 Hour)

Decluttering is the first step to making your space feel clean and organized. Here’s how to do it efficiently:

  • Trash First: Grab a trash bag and collect any garbage from all rooms.

  • Donate or Recycle: Set aside items that can be donated or recycled.

  • Organize Belongings: Return misplaced items to their proper spots. If organizing feels overwhelming, consider residential cleaning services that offer decluttering assistance.

Decluttering not only clears physical space but also gives you a clearer mindset to tackle deeper cleaning tasks.

Step 3: Cleaning Ceilings and Walls (45 Minutes)

Dust, cobwebs, and smudges can make your home look dull. Start with the highest areas and work your way down.

  1. Ceilings and Corners: Use a long-handled duster or a microfiber mop to remove cobwebs and dust.

  2. Walls and Light Fixtures: Wipe walls with a damp cloth and clean light fixtures to brighten up your space.

For stubborn stains, a mixture of baking soda and water can work wonders.

Step 4: Deep Clean Bedrooms (1 Hour)

Bedrooms should feel like a sanctuary. Here’s how to refresh them:

  1. Strip and Launder: Remove all bedding and start a load of laundry. Wash sheets, pillowcases, and comforters while you clean the rest of the room.

  2. Dust All Surfaces: Dust nightstands, shelves, and dressers. Don’t forget lamps and picture frames.

  3. Vacuum and Mop: Vacuum carpets or sweep and mop hardwood floors, including under the bed.

If you’re short on time or energy, home cleaning services can step in to give your bedrooms a professional touch.

Step 5: Transform the Living Room (1 Hour)

As a high-traffic area, the living room deserves extra attention.

  1. Furniture Care: Vacuum sofas and chairs, paying attention to crevices. Spot clean any stains.

  2. Dust and Wipe: Clean surfaces like coffee tables, bookshelves, and entertainment units.

  3. Electronics: Use a microfiber cloth to dust TVs, remotes, and gaming consoles.

  4. Floors: Vacuum rugs and mop hard floors.

Step 6: Refresh the Kitchen (1.5 Hours)

The kitchen is often the dirtiest room in the house due to grease and food spills. Here’s how to make it shine:

  1. Appliances: Clean the microwave, oven, and fridge thoroughly. Remove expired items and wipe down shelves.

  2. Countertops and Cabinets: Use an all-purpose cleaner to remove grease and stains.

  3. Sink and Faucets: Scrub the sink with baking soda and rinse with vinegar. Polish the faucets for a shiny finish.

  4. Floors: Sweep and mop the kitchen floor, focusing on corners where crumbs tend to hide.

If you’re preparing your home for a rental or a move, consider hiring move-in/move-out cleaning services for a deep clean that meets professional standards.

Step 7: Sparkling Bathrooms (1 Hour)

Bathrooms require extra care to ensure they’re hygienic and fresh-smelling.

  1. Toilet Cleaning: Use a toilet cleaner and brush to scrub inside the bowl. Wipe down the exterior with disinfectant.

  2. Shower and Tub: Spray with a bathroom cleaner and scrub off soap scum and grime.

  3. Sinks and Mirrors: Clean the sink with baking soda and use glass cleaner on mirrors for a streak-free shine.

  4. Floors and Touchpoints: Mop the floor and disinfect frequently touched areas like light switches and handles.

Step 8: Hallways and Entryways (30 Minutes)

These often-overlooked areas make a big difference in how clean your home feels.

  1. Declutter: Remove shoes, bags, and jackets. Organize them in closets or designated storage areas.

  2. Dust and Wipe: Clean walls, light switches, and any decorative items.

  3. Floors: Vacuum or mop floors to remove dirt brought in from outside.

Step 9: Final Touches (30 Minutes)

  1. Air Freshening: Open windows for ventilation or use an air freshener to add a pleasant scent.

  2. Inspect Your Work: Walk through each room to ensure nothing is missed.

  3. Dispose of Trash: Take out all trash and recycling to maintain a clean environment.

When to Call in the Professionals

While a DIY cleaning session can be satisfying, there are times when professional help is the better choice. Here are some scenarios where services like house cleaning services or professional deep cleaning can make a difference:

  • Busy Schedule: When you lack the time for a thorough clean.

  • Special Occasions: Before hosting guests or events.

  • Move-Ins or Move-Outs: To ensure the property meets cleanliness standards.

  • Airbnb Rentals: For hosts, Airbnb cleaning services can help achieve the spotless look that earns five-star reviews.

Professional cleaners have the tools and expertise to tackle even the toughest cleaning challenges, making them a valuable resource for homeowners and renters alike.

The Cost Factor: Affordable Cleaning Options

One common misconception is that professional cleaning is expensive. However, many companies now offer affordable residential cleaning services, making it easier for homeowners to maintain a pristine space without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

Cleaning your home from top to bottom in just one day is achievable with the right strategy, tools, and mindset. Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring house cleaning services, the goal is to create a space that feels clean, fresh, and inviting.

If time is limited or you’re preparing for a special occasion, consider enlisting help from professional deep cleaning, move-in/move-out cleaning services, or Airbnb cleaning services. These services not only save time but also ensure a level of cleanliness that can be hard to achieve on your own.

Remember, a clean home is more than just an aesthetic improvement; it’s an investment in your well-being and peace of mind.