How To Deep Clean Your House Room by Room

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Deep cleaning your house really is a challenging task. But with proper guidelines, you can do it easily. In this guide, I will discuss a step-by-step guide to deep clean your home room by room, making your cleaning process easier.

Key Differences Between Regular Cleaning and Deep Cleaning

1. Frequency:

Regular Cleaning: Performed weekly or bi-weekly.
Deep Cleaning: Typically done every few months or as needed.

2. Scope of Work:

Regular Cleaning: Focuses on surface cleaning and maintenance.
Deep Cleaning: Cleaning difficult-to-reach and neglected places thoroughly.

3. Tasks Included:

– Regular Cleaning: Dusting, vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, and cleaning frequently used surfaces.
– Deep Cleaning: Scrubbing grout, cleaning behind appliances, washing windows, and decluttering.

4. Time Required:

Regular Cleaning: Generally takes less time.
Deep Cleaning: Requires more time and effort to complete.

5. Level of Detail:

– Regular Cleaning: Less detailed, focuses on maintaining cleanliness.
– Deep Cleaning: More detailed and thorough, aimed at removing deep-seated dirt and allergens.

6. Purpose:

Regular Cleaning: Maintains a tidy environment and prevents buildup.
Deep Cleaning: Restores cleanliness and freshness to areas that are often ignored.

7. Result:

– Regular Cleaning: Keeps the space looking presentable.
– Deep Cleaning: Provides a more intense clean and can improve indoor air quality.

What to Consider Before Getting Started with Deep Cleaning

  • Aim for Progress, Not Perfection: Focus on what can be accomplished in the available time.
  • Plan Ahead: Create a schedule or task list for each room to stay organized.
  • Gather Supplies:  Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary cleaning tools and protective gear.
  • Declutter: Remove unnecessary items from each room to make cleaning more efficient.
  • Prioritize Tasks: Start with the dirtiest areas, usually the kitchen and bathrooms, to maintain motivation.
  • Get Help: Involve family or friends to make cleaning more efficient.
  • Clean from Top to Bottom:  To avoid having to clean areas again, start with the upper surfaces and work your way down.

Tools You Need for Deep Clean

1. General Cleaners

– Multipurpose cleaner
– Bathroom cleaner
– Specialty cleaners (if applicable)
– Granite cleaner
– Stainless steel cleaner
– Dish soap

2. Tools and Equipment

– Spray bottle
– Mop
– Vacuum
– Broom
– Duster
– Dusting gloves
– Bucket

3. Scrubbing Tools

– Tough scrub brushes
– Soft scrub brushes/sponges
– Microfiber rags (fuzzy and lint-free)

4. Surface Cleaners

– Glass cleaner
– Floor cleaner

5. Laundry and Upholstery

– Laundry detergent
– Upholstery cleaning machine

6. Specific Cleaners

– Dishwasher cleaner like Glisten
– Oven cleaner
– Toilet bowl cleaner
– Washing machine cleaner tablets

7. Additional Supplies

– Rubbing alcohol
– Bar Keepers Friend Soft Cleaner
– Lint brush

How To Deep Clean Your Bathroom

Declutter and remove items

  • Remove towels, rugs, shower curtains (or liners), toiletries, and floor mats.
  • Toss empty bottles and expired products; place remaining items on a counter or in a box.

Ventilate and protect

  • Turn on the exhaust fan and open a window if possible.
  • Put on rubber gloves and any eye protection if using strong cleaners.

Dust and sweep high to low

  • Remove cobwebs and dust light fixtures, vents, and the tops of cabinets.
  • To get rid of hair and dirt, sweep or vacuum the floor.

Pre-treat the shower/tub and fixtures

  • Spray tile, grout, tub, and shower walls with a bathroom cleaner or vinegar solution.
  • For soap scum: sprinkle baking soda on surfaces, then spray vinegar; let it fizz and sit 10–15 minutes.
  • For glass doors, use a squeegee or glass cleaner after scrubbing.

Soak toilet and sink fixtures

  • Fill the bowl with toilet bowl cleaner and let it sit there.
  • Spray the sink, faucets, and overflow areas with cleaner; let it dwell for 5–10 minutes.

Scrub grout and tiles

  • Use a grout brush or an old toothbrush to scrub grout lines with baking soda paste or a grout cleaner.
  • Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Scrub the tub, shower, and tiles

  • Scrub with a non-abrasive brush or sponge. Use a stronger cleaner or diluted bleach only for heavy mold/mildew—ensure ventilation.
  • Rinse thoroughly, then use a squeegee or microfiber towel to dry.

Clean toilet

  • Use a toilet brush to clean the bowl’s interior before flushing.
  • Spray the exterior, seat, and base with disinfectant, then wipe them thoroughly.

Clean sink, counters, and vanity

  • Scrub sink, drain area, and faucet. Remove toothpaste and soap residue.
  • Wipe counters, handles, and cabinet fronts. Clean drawer/cabinet handles.

Clean mirrors and glass

  • Spray glass cleaner or a vinegar solution, then wipe with a lint-free cloth or microfiber for a streak-free shine.

Clean light fixtures and vents

  • Wipe down light fixtures and exhaust fan cover. If removable, wash in warm soapy water.

Mop floor

  • Mop from the far corner toward the door with the appropriate floor cleaner. Pay attention to baseboards—wipe them down if they are dirty.

Replace textiles and items

  • Put back washed or fresh towels, rugs, and the shower curtain/liner.
  • Replace toiletries neatly; consider grouping by use to reduce clutter.

Empty Trash

  • Clear out the primary trash container or bin, clean it thoroughly with disinfectant, and replace it with a fresh liner.

Final inspection and deodorize

  • Check for missed spots. Spray a light deodorizer or place a small bowl of baking soda in the cabinet to absorb odors.

Quick tips and safety

  • To prevent cleaned areas from becoming soiled again, clean from top to bottom.
  • Use the non-mixing rule: never mix bleach with ammonia or vinegar.
  • Test cleaners on a small area if unsure about surface compatibility.
  • Regular maintenance: quick weekly wipe-downs will reduce need for intensive scrubbing.

Time/effort guide

  • Small bathroom: 60–75 minutes
  • Medium bathroom: 75–90 minutes
  • Large or heavily soiled: 90–120+ minutes

How To Deep Clean Your Kitchen

  1. Clean from top to bottom — work from high to low so that dust/grime falls to the floor for final cleaning.
  2. Dust and wipe high surfaces — wipe light fixtures, the tops of cabinets, vent covers, and the tops of refrigerators and cupboards.
  3. Clean cabinet faces and handles — use a spray cleaner or soapy water, focusing on the handles and edges where grease tends to collect.
  4. Empty and clean pantry & cabinets — remove items, wipe shelves, discard crumbs/expired items, and reorganize as you replace them.
  5. Deep clean the refrigerator
    • Remove shelves/drawers, then soak them in warm, soapy water.
    • Use a baking soda solution (one tablespoon of baking soda per quart of warm water) to clean the inside.
    • Clean door seals and exterior; replace shelves/drawers when dry.
  6. Deep clean the freezer — defrost if necessary; wipe down with a mild cleaner; and replace items in an organized manner.
  7. Clean the oven and stovetop
    • Remove burner grates/racks; soak in hot soapy water or degreaser.
    • Apply oven cleaner or a baking soda paste; let it sit for the recommended time, then scrub and rinse.
    • Scrub stovetop, knobs, and burner crevices; wipe backsplash.
  8. Clean the range hood and filters — soak metal filters in hot, soapy water or degreaser; wipe the hood exterior and control panel.
  9. Clean small appliances — microwave (steam-clean then wipe), toaster, coffee maker (run vinegar/water cycle then rinse), blender base and jars.
  10. Clean countertops and backsplashes — use the appropriate cleaner for your surface (granite, laminate, quartz, or tile); scrub grout if the surface is tiled.
  11. Clean the sink and faucet
    • Scrub the sink basin with baking soda or a mild abrasive; then disinfect and rinse.
    • Clean faucet, handles, and sprayer; polish stainless steel.
    • Use a solution of vinegar and baking soda, then water, or run the garbage disposal with ice cubes and citrus peels.
  12. Dishwasher care — run an empty cycle with dishwasher cleaner or a cup of vinegar; clean filter and door seals.
  13. Clean floors — sweep/vacuum, then mop. Pay attention to edges and under appliances if accessible.
  14. Wipe down the trash/recycling bin — disinfect both inside and out; replace the liner.
  15. Final touch-ups — clean windows/mirror surfaces, polish stainless steel, replace items neatly, set out fresh dish towels.

Finishing steps and inspection

  • Inspect for missed spots — check under appliances, behind trash, and inside cabinets.
  • Deodorize — place baking soda in fridge/pantry or boil citrus peels for a fresh scent.
  • Organize as you replace — keep frequently used items accessible to reduce countertop clutter.

Quick tips & safety

  • Clean top to bottom to avoid re-soiling cleaned areas.
  • Don’t mix cleaners — never mix bleach with ammonia or vinegar.
  • Test cleaners on a small area for delicate surfaces (stone, wood).
  • Routine maintenance — weekly wipe-downs and monthly appliance care reduce deep-clean time.

Time estimates

  • Small kitchen: 60–90 minutes
  • Medium kitchen: 90–150 minutes
  • Large or heavily soiled kitchen: 2–4 hours

How To Deep Clean Your Bedroom

  1. Start high: dust ceiling fans, light fixtures, crown molding, and vents so dust falls to the floor for later cleaning.
  2. Dust walls and corners: Use an extendable duster for cobwebs and dust along upper walls.
  3. Clean light switches and door hardware: Wipe with a disinfectant or all-purpose cleaner.
  4. Dust furniture top-to-bottom: dust shelves, picture frames, headboard, nightstands, dressers — work from top down.
  5. Empty and wipe drawers/shelves: remove contents, vacuum or wipe interior, evaluate items before replacing. Consider adding drawer organizers.
  6. Clean mirrors and glass: spray glass cleaner onto the surface and wipe streak-free with a microfiber cloth.
  7. Spot-clean upholstery and curtains: treat stains on upholstered headboards, chairs, and curtains using recommended cleaners. Vacuum upholstery with the attachment.
  8. Mattress care: Sprinkle baking soda over the mattress, let it sit for 30 minutes, and then vacuum thoroughly. Rotate or flip the mattress if applicable.
  9. Wash bedding and soft items: wash sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, pillow protectors, and washable pillows according to the labels. Wash curtains if machine-safe.
  10. Vacuum mattress and under-bed areas: Use the crevice tool to vacuum under the bed, behind furniture, and along baseboards.
  11. Vacuum or sweep floors: Vacuum carpets thoroughly (making multiple passes) or sweep/hard-floor dust-mop. Use attachments for edges and corners.
  12. Deep clean floors: mop hard floors with appropriate cleaner or steam-clean carpets/upholstery if needed. Pay attention to area rugs — vacuum both sides or launder per care label.
  13. Replace and organize: make the bed with fresh linens, return only necessary items to surfaces, and use baskets or trays to keep nightstands tidy.
  14. Final touch-ups: empty the trash, replace the liners, fluff the pillows, straighten the décor, and spray a light room freshener or use a diffuser for a pleasant scent.
  15. Quick maintenance plan: schedule weekly 10–15-minute tidy sessions and monthly deeper refreshes to keep the room pristine.

Quick tips & safety

  • Work top-to-bottom to avoid re-soiling cleaned surfaces.
  • Limit surface clutter — fewer items mean faster cleaning and easier staging for photos on your blog.
  • Test cleaners on hidden areas for delicate fabrics or finishes.
  • Natural alternative: use vinegar and water for dusting and baking soda for deodorizing the mattress.

Time estimates

  • Small bedroom: 45–75 minutes
  • Medium bedroom: 75–120 minutes
  • Large/master bedroom (with en-suite/closets): 2–3 hours

How To Deep Clean Your Living Room

  1. Work top-to-bottom: always clean ceilings, light fixtures, and shelves first so dust falls down for later removal.
  2. Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures, and vents: Use an extendable duster or a damp microfiber cloth for removing sticky buildup.
  3. Dust walls, artwork, and high surfaces: gently dust frames and shelves; remove and dust décor items individually.
  4. Wipe electronics and screens: Use a microfiber cloth and manufacturer-recommended cleaner; avoid spraying directly on screens.
  5. Dust and clean shelves, coffee table, and surfaces: remove items, wipe surfaces, and clean under décor. Reorganize decorative displays as you replace items.
  6. Spot-clean upholstery and cushions: treat stains with upholstery cleaner or a mild detergent, following the care labels. To get rid of pet hair and dirt, use a lint roller.
  7. Vacuum furniture and under cushions: use upholstery attachment; vacuum crevices and under sofa cushions. Rotate cushions if applicable.
  8. Clean windows, window sills, and blinds/curtains: Wipe sills and frames, clean glass with a streak-free solution, and dust or wash blinds/clean curtains according to care instructions.
  9. Clean baseboards, trim, and door frames by wiping them with a damp cloth or microfiber to remove scuffs and dust. Use a soft brush for grooves.
  10. Treat rugs and carpets: vacuum thoroughly (multiple directions), spot-treat stains, and consider steam cleaning for deep grime. Shake or vacuum area rugs; flip if washable and appropriate.
  11. Clean and polish hard floors: sweep/dust-mop, then mop with appropriate cleaner. Pay attention to corners and under furniture (move what you can).
  12. Tackle small details: clean light switches, door handles, remote controls (disinfect gently), and coasters/trays.
  13. Replace textiles and re-fluff: put back fresh pillow covers and throws, fluff pillows, and arrange seating for a neat look.
  14. Final declutter & staging: remove trash, replace liners, straighten magazines/books, and add a finishing touch (plant, candle, or diffuser).
  15. Quick maintenance plan: schedule weekly 10–15 minute tidies (clear surfaces, fluff pillows, quick vacuum) and monthly deeper refreshes.

Quick tips & safety

  • Clean top to bottom to avoid re-soiling cleaned areas.
  • Unplug electronics before cleaning and use recommended cleaners to avoid damage.
  • Never mix cleaners (especially bleach and ammonia/vinegar).
  • Test cleaners on hidden spots for delicate fabrics or finishes.
  • Declutter regularly — less clutter means faster deep cleans and better photos for your blog.

Time estimates

  • Small living room: 45–75 minutes
  • Medium living room: 75–120 minutes
  • Large or heavily soiled space: 2+ hours

How To Deep Clean Your Laundry Room

  1. Clear and sort shelving/cabinets
    • Remove all bottles/boxes, check the expiration dates on detergents, discard empty/old containers, wipe shelves with soapy water or a cleaner, and reorganize with bins and labels.
  2. Clean laundry sink/utility tub
    • Scrub with baking soda and vinegar, or use an all-purpose cleaner. Clear and deodorize the drain with baking soda and hot water.
  3. Pre-treat washer surfaces
    • Wipe exterior and control panel with a damp microfiber cloth. Use an old toothbrush for crevices around knobs and dispensers.
  4. Deep-clean washer drum & dispenser
    • For front-loaders, use a commercial washing machine cleaner or two cups of white vinegar to start a hot wash cycle. Then, use half a cup of baking soda to start a second hot cycle. Remove and soak the detergent drawers. Scrub the seals and gaskets with a vinegar solution and dry thoroughly. You can read: How to Clean a Front-Load Washing Machine
    • For top-loaders: run a hot cycle with 4 cups of hot water, 1 cup of bleach (or 2 cups of vinegar), and let it soak. Then, run a full cycle. Clean agitator and dispensers.
  5. Check hoses and connections
    • Inspect hot/cold water hoses for cracks, bulges, or corrosion; tighten connections and replace hoses that are older than 5 years or show signs of wear.
  6. Clean behind and under appliances
    • Move the washer/dryer if possible, vacuum lint and debris, and wipe the floor and baseboards. Keep safety: unplug first.
  7. Clean the dryer thoroughly
    • Empty the lint trap and wash it with soap/water if needed. Vacuum the lint housing and the area behind the dryer. Use a dryer vent brush or hire pros to clean the vent duct to the exterior — lint buildup is a fire hazard. Wipe exterior and control knobs.
  8. Clean floor and baseboards
    • Sweep or vacuum, then mop with an appropriate cleaner. Pay attention to grout or stubborn stains and scrub as needed.
  9. Wipe walls, light fixtures, and vents
    • Dust and wipe down walls, switch plates, washers/dryers top, and ceiling fixtures. Clean the exhaust vent cover.
  10. Sanitize high-touch surfaces
    • Disinfect knobs, counters, switch plates, hamper lids, and door handles with a suitable disinfectant.
  11. Organize laundry supplies
    • Use clear bins, labels, and a tray for commonly used items. Keep hazardous products out of reach of children/pets.
  12. Final inspection & replace items
    • Put back laundry, rugs, and baskets when the area is dry. Run a short cycle on the washer/dryer to ensure everything works.

Quick tips & safety

  • Work top-to-bottom so debris falls to the floor for final cleaning.
  • Unplug appliances before pulling them out or doing major cleaning.
  • Never mix bleach with vinegar or ammonia.
  • Clean dryer vents regularly (annually or more often if heavy use) to reduce fire risk.
  • Use rubber or stainless hoses for longer life where possible.
  • Test cleaners on a small area for painted walls or specialty finishes.

Maintenance schedule (recommended)

  • After every load: clean lint trap and wipe spills.
  • Weekly: wipe surfaces, sweep/vacuum floor.
  • Monthly: run washer cleaning cycle, clean dryer vent housing, wipe shelves.
  • Annually: inspect/replace hoses, deep-clean dryer duct (or hire pro).

Time estimates

  • Small laundry area: 30–60 minutes
  • Medium (separate room): 60–90 minutes
  • Large or heavily soiled (move appliances): 90–180 minutes

How To Deep Clean Your Garage

  1. Remove everything: work in sections if the garage is full. Move contents to your staging area and group like with like.
  2. Sort and declutter: make piles — keepdonate/sellrecyclehazardoustrash. Be decisive; use the 1-year rule for infrequently used items.
  3. Sweep and vacuum loose debris: Start at the back and work toward the door; use a shop vacuum for corners and crevices.
  4. Treat oil and chemical stains: Apply absorbent material (such as cat litter) for fresh spills. For set-in stains, use a concrete degreaser or a mixture of baking soda and degreaser, and scrub with a stiff brush. Rinse or pressure wash.
  5. Pressure-wash or deep-clean floor: use a pressure washer or hose & scrub solution; allow to dry fully. For large grime, repeat the degreasing step.
  6. Dust and wipe surfaces: wipe down shelves, cabinets, door frames, light fixtures, and windows. Clean spider webs, cobwebs, and insect nests.
  7. Clean and inspect tools & equipment: wipe down tools, sharpen blades, lubricate moving parts, empty/clean mowers, and check gas/oil levels (store per safety guidelines).
  8. Clean workbench and storage units: empty, wipe, and reorganize drawers and cabinets; discard broken/unusable items.
  9. Inspect and clean garage door area: clear tracks, wipe rollers, lubricate hinges, and test balance/auto-reverse safety features.
  10. Address pests & insulation: seal gaps, check for rodent droppings, replace damaged insulation, and set traps or hire pest control if needed.
  11. Organize and return items: Install or use shelving, cabinets, pegboards, and labeled bins to store like items together. Keep frequently used items within easy reach.
  12. Final sweep and mop: remove any remaining dust, sweep, and mop. Replace rugs or mats if desired.
  13. Dispose of hazardous waste properly: take paints, solvents, batteries, and motor oil to a local hazardous-waste drop-off or recycling center.

Sorting & disposal guidance

  • Hazardous materials: store separately and transport to an approved facility — don’t put them in regular trash.
  • Electronics & batteries: recycle at e-waste centers.
  • Large bulky items: donate if usable, schedule a bulk pickup, or arrange special disposal.
  • Metal scraps: consider recycling or selling to scrap yards.

Organization & storage ideas

  • Wall storage: pegboard, slatwall, and heavy-duty hooks for tools and garden gear.
  • Ceiling storage: overhead racks for seasonal bins and bulky items.
  • Labeled bins: clear or labeled containers for fast identification.
  • Zone system: designate zones for tools, sports, garden, automotive, and seasonal storage.
  • Lockable cabinet: Store chemicals and pesticides out of reach of children/pets.

Safety tips & hazardous-material handling

  • Never mix chemicals (e.g., bleach + ammonia).
  • Store flammable liquids in approved, metal containers and keep them away from heat sources.
  • Ventilate when using solvents or painting.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher rated for wood/chemical fires accessible in the garage.
  • Check carbon monoxide risk before running engines inside — avoid indoor operation.

Maintenance schedule (recommended)

  • Weekly: sweep and return items to their zones.
  • Monthly: spot-clean spills, check for leaks, and inspect tools.
  • Quarterly: reevaluate stored items, clean shelves, check batteries/chargers.
  • Annually: deep clean floor, inspect hoses/cables, service equipment, and audit stored chemicals.

Time estimates

  • Small/organized garage: 1–3 hours
  • Medium/cluttered garage: 3–6 hours
  • Large/heavily cluttered or multi-car garage: 6–12+ hours (may require multiple days or help)

Read also:

How to Deep Clean Your Bathroom: 10 Must-Try Tricks That Actually Work

6 Genius Ways to Clean Your Kitchen Sink Drain (Fast & Effectively)

How to Clean Under the Bed Without Moving It

How to Clean Toilet Bowl Ring? 10 Effective DIY Methods

How to Clean a Big Rug Without a Machine

How to Clean Hardwood Floors Naturally: 7 Quick & Easy Tips

How to Clean a Leather Couch Naturally at Home

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