A deep clean goes beyond the regular maintenance cleaning that most of us do weekly. It addresses those neglected areas that accumulate dirt, dust, and grime over time. At Spelaya Yagodka, we recommend a thorough deep cleaning at least twice a year—typically in spring and fall. This comprehensive guide will walk you through deep cleaning your entire home, room by room, ensuring no corner is left untouched.
Before You Begin: Preparation
A successful deep cleaning session starts with proper preparation:
- Gather supplies: All-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfectant, degreaser, floor cleaner, microfiber cloths, scrub brushes, vacuum with attachments, mop, step ladder, and garbage bags.
- Create a checklist: Having a room-by-room checklist keeps you organized and ensures nothing is missed.
- Clear clutter first: Declutter before cleaning—it's easier to clean surfaces when they're not covered with items.
- Work top to bottom: Always start cleaning from the top of the room (ceiling, fans, light fixtures) and work your way down to the floor.
- Work in sections: Complete one room before moving to the next for a sense of accomplishment and to avoid spreading dirt between rooms.
Kitchen Deep Cleaning
The kitchen often requires the most intensive cleaning due to food preparation and cooking activities:
Cabinets and Drawers
- Empty cabinets and drawers completely
- Vacuum out crumbs and debris
- Wipe down interior surfaces with a damp cloth and mild cleaner
- Clean cabinet fronts and handles, paying attention to greasy fingerprints
- Clean and reorganize contents before returning them
Appliances
- Refrigerator: Empty completely, discard expired items, remove and wash shelves and drawers, wipe interior walls, clean door seals, vacuum refrigerator coils, and clean the exterior.
- Oven: Remove racks and clean separately, use oven cleaner for interior (following product instructions), clean door inside and out (including between glass panels if accessible), and clean the stovetop thoroughly.
- Microwave: Heat a bowl of water with lemon for 3 minutes to steam the interior, then wipe down walls and turntable.
- Dishwasher: Remove and clean the filter, run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or a commercial dishwasher cleaner, and wipe down the door and seals.
- Small appliances: Unplug, disassemble as much as possible, and clean according to manufacturer instructions.
Countertops and Sink
- Clear everything from countertops
- Clean and disinfect all surfaces
- Scrub sink basin with appropriate cleaner (avoid abrasives on certain materials)
- Clean and disinfect the drain and garbage disposal (baking soda and vinegar work well)
- Polish faucets and handles
Floors
- Sweep thoroughly, including under appliances and furniture where possible
- Move smaller items to access all areas
- Mop with appropriate floor cleaner
- Clean baseboards with a damp cloth
Bathroom Deep Cleaning
Bathrooms require special attention to eliminate bacteria, mold, and soap scum:
Shower and Tub
- Remove all items from the shower/tub
- Apply tile and grout cleaner, allowing it to sit according to instructions
- Scrub tiles, grout, and fixtures with appropriate brushes
- Clean shower door or curtain (curtains can often be machine washed)
- Descale showerhead (soak in vinegar solution if needed)
- Clean drain and remove hair buildup
Toilet
- Apply toilet bowl cleaner and let it sit
- Clean exterior surfaces, including base, tank, and behind the toilet
- Scrub interior with toilet brush
- Disinfect the seat, paying attention to hinges and attachment points
Sink and Vanity
- Clear all items from countertops
- Clean mirror with glass cleaner
- Wipe down and disinfect countertop and sink
- Clean faucet and handles
- Empty, clean, and reorganize drawers and cabinets
Floors and Walls
- Clean walls and ceiling, checking for mold spots
- Wash bathmats and towels
- Sweep and mop floors
- Clean baseboards and door
- Ensure proper ventilation by cleaning exhaust fan grill
Living Areas Deep Cleaning
For living rooms, family rooms, and dens:
Furniture
- Remove cushions and vacuum underneath and between crevices
- Spot clean upholstery following fabric care instructions
- Dust and polish wooden furniture
- Clean under furniture (move pieces when possible)
- Wash slipcovers and pillow covers if removable
Walls, Windows, and Floors
- Dust ceiling corners and remove cobwebs
- Clean ceiling fans and light fixtures
- Dust blinds or wash curtains according to care labels
- Clean window frames, tracks, and glass inside and out
- Clean door frames, doors, and handles
- Wash or dust baseboards
- Vacuum carpets thoroughly, including edges and under furniture
- Shampoo carpets if necessary or mop hard flooring
Electronics and Décor
- Dust electronics with appropriate cleaners (never spray directly onto devices)
- Clean remote controls with disinfectant wipes
- Dust books, picture frames, and decorative items
- Clean mirrors and glass surfaces
Bedroom Deep Cleaning
Create a clean sanctuary for restful sleep:
Bed and Bedding
- Wash all bedding including duvet covers, shams, and bed skirts
- Flip or rotate mattress if recommended by manufacturer
- Vacuum mattress thoroughly
- Clean under the bed and headboard
Closets and Storage
- Empty closets and declutter
- Vacuum or mop closet floor
- Wipe down shelves and rods
- Reorganize contents, considering seasonal rotation
Furniture and Surfaces
- Clean inside and on top of nightstands and dressers
- Dust lamps and décor
- Clean mirrors and windows
- Vacuum carpet or mop floors
- Clean baseboards and door frames
Often Forgotten Areas
Don't overlook these commonly neglected spots during your deep clean:
- Light fixtures and ceiling fans: Remove dust and insects from light covers; clean fan blades on both sides.
- Switch plates and doorknobs: Disinfect these high-touch areas that can harbor germs.
- Vents and registers: Remove covers if possible and vacuum inside ducts; clean covers before replacing.
- Behind appliances: Pull out refrigerator, stove, and washer/dryer to clean floors and walls behind them.
- Under sinks: Check for leaks, clean, and organize plumbing areas.
- Window tracks: Use an old toothbrush to clean debris from window tracks and sills.
- Trash cans: Disinfect inside and outside of all household trash receptacles.
When to Call the Professionals
While this guide covers comprehensive DIY deep cleaning, some tasks are better left to professionals with specialized equipment and expertise:
- Professional carpet and upholstery cleaning (recommended annually)
- Dryer vent cleaning (critical for fire prevention)
- Air duct cleaning
- Exterior window cleaning for multi-story homes
- Hard-to-reach areas requiring specialized equipment
At Spelaya Yagodka Cleaning Services, we offer comprehensive deep cleaning packages tailored to your home's specific needs. Our professional team can handle everything from routine maintenance to specialized deep cleaning tasks that go beyond the scope of typical household cleaning.
Remember, a deep clean might seem overwhelming, but breaking it down room by room makes it manageable. If you're short on time or prefer professional results, don't hesitate to contact us for a consultation. We're here to help you enjoy a cleaner, healthier home environment.