As the start of the winter season approaches, it comes the perfect time to focus on creating a warm and inviting space inside your home. While we often associate spring with deep cleaning, a thorough winter clean can help keep your home cozy and healthy during the colder months.
With Fresh Home Cleaning’s winter cleaning tips, you will make sure your home is free of dust and allergens, and make it the coziest for the festive season ahead. Bring out the decorations and let’s get ready to celebrate this December with our loved ones! Keep on reading this article to get all the details.
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The Importance of Cleaning Your Home on December
December is the month of festive gatherings and the onset of winter weather, which are some of the reasons why it is the perfect time to make a deep clean of your home. With holiday celebrations just around the corner, a clean home ensures a welcoming environment for the family and other guests, as well as it reduces stress for the hosts.
Moreover, as temperatures drop, families tend to spend more time indoors, increasing the need to maintain a hygienic living space to prevent the spread of germs and allergens. Regular cleaning during this month can also help safeguard against the buildup of dust and mold, which are common in closed, heated environments.
At Fresh Home Cleaning, we want to share some ideas to make tidying a home during the month of December easier and to make enhancing and preparing for the festivities a fun task. Let’s get to it!
How to Clean Your Home Before the Holidays
Focus on High Traffic Areas First
When preparing your home for the holiday season, it’s essential to prioritize cleaning the high traffic areas first. These spaces, such as the living room, kitchen, and entryway, are where guests are most likely to gather and spend time in.
Start by decluttering these areas to create a welcoming atmosphere and make cleaning more efficient. Dust surfaces, vacuum or sweep floors, and be sure to clean any upholstery or rugs that might have accumulated dirt and debris over time.
Preparing the Kitchen for the Holiday Gatherings
During this time of staple home cooked meals, the kitchen is likely to be right at the center of the family gatherings and the holiday preparations. This is one of the reasons why cleaning the kitchen before the most wonderful time of the year arrives could be the best idea for December.
Deep clean the fridge
Start with the fridge. First, empty its contents and discard any expired items. Remove shelves and drawers for a thorough wash with warm, soapy water. Take an extra step and wipe down the interior walls with a solution of baking soda and water to eliminate odors and stains.
Finally, ensure everything is dry before restocking. Including this step in your pre holiday cleaning list will not only maximize space for holiday essentials, but will also keep food fresh and safe for your preparations.
Scrub the sink
Scrubbing the sink is essential for a spotless kitchen this holiday season. Start by rinsing the sink with warm water. Then, apply a gentle cleaning solution or baking soda paste, focusing on stains and grime. Scrub using a non-abrasive scrubber to avoid scratching the surface. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots.
Getting the Bathroom Ready for Holiday Guests
Paying attention to a frequently used area, such as the bathroom, before hosting your holiday gathering is beyond crucial to make everyone feel welcomed and comfortable in your home. So, make sure to include these two things when making a pre holiday cleaning checklist.
Declutter drawers and wipe clean countertops
Start by doing a drawer decluttering. Check for and remove expired products and unnecessary items from your bathroom drawers. Then, make sure to create a more organized, intuitive and accessible space for holiday guests.
Once drawers are streamlined, focus on wiping clean countertops with a disinfectant to ensure a sparkling, germ-free surface. This not only enhances the bathroom’s overall appearance but also promotes a hygienic environment. A tidy and clean bathroom will make guests feel welcome and comfortable during their holiday visit.
Restock on essentials
Another thing to keep in mind when tackling the bathroom, is to restock on essentials people might need like toilet paper, hand soap, and clean towels to ensure your bathroom is fully equipped for holiday guests.
Consider adding extra toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste for added convenience. Keeping a few spare rolls of toilet paper visible also reassures guests of their availability. This tip and a well-stocked bathroom not only enhances comfort but also showcases your attention to detail and hospitality during the festive season.
Prepare the Entryway for a Warm Welcome
We often tend to overlook the entryways of our homes completely, but during our pre holiday clean, we cannot forget this high traffic area plays a key role in our family and friends’ gatherings. Make sure to get your entryway ready to greet your guests with the following winter cleaning tip.
Clear out the entryway closet
Organizing the entryway closet is key to creating a welcoming atmosphere during the pre holiday clean. Start by removing out-of-season items and relocating other belongings that sometimes get left behind in the entryway closet.
Also, consider using clear bins and labeled baskets to neatly store shoes, umbrellas, and scarves. Check existing hooks, or install new ones to guarantee easy access to coats and bags. A tidy closet not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of any home, but also boosts functionality, ensuring a clutter-free, inviting space for both family and guests.
Extra Steps for a Spotless Home
Rugs
During the holiday season, ensuring your rugs are clean can make a significant difference in maintaining a spotless home. Regular vacuuming not only removes dirt and allergens but also helps prolong the life of your rugs. For best results, use a vacuum with adjustable settings to accommodate different rug types and ensure thorough cleaning. Aim to vacuum high-traffic areas more frequently to keep them looking fresh and inviting.
Outdoor Area
Ensuring your outdoor area is clean and welcoming can make a significant impact during the holiday season. Start by sweeping walkways and clearing debris from driveways and patios. Clean outdoor furniture and consider adding seasonal decorations to boost that holiday spirit. Check outdoor lighting to ensure pathways are safely illuminated for guests.
Guestroom
Preparing a guestroom that’s both welcoming and spotless is crucial during the holiday season clean. Start by decluttering and organizing, ensuring ample space for luggage. Freshen up the linens with a seasonal scent and dust all surfaces, including under the bed. Don’t forget to vacuum thoroughly and sanitize high-touch areas like light switches and door handles. Consider adding a small welcome basket with toiletries for a thoughtful holiday welcome.
Fresh Home Cleaning Services
Need a little extra help keeping your home in tip-top shape? Look no further than Fresh Home Cleaning. With over 15 years of experience servicing Maryland, we offer custom cleaning solutions tailored to your needs. From our Deluxe Clean to our Classic Clean, and even move-in/move-out services, we have you covered. Contact Fresh Home Cleaning today for a consultation.
Contact us today! CALL FOR AN ESTIMATE (301) 519-8035
FAQs
Why is it important to clean your home in December?
Cleaning your home in December is crucial because it prepares your space for holiday gatherings and ensures a hygienic environment as more time is spent indoors. A clean home reduces stress for hosts and prevents the spread of germs and allergens, which can increase in heated, enclosed spaces during winter.
What are the key high traffic areas to focus on before the holidays?
High traffic areas such as the living room, kitchen, and entryway should be prioritized when cleaning before the holidays. These spaces are where guests frequently gather, so decluttering, dusting, and cleaning floors and upholstery can create a welcoming and tidy atmosphere for gatherings.
How should I prepare my kitchen for holiday gatherings?
To prepare your kitchen for holiday gatherings, start by deep cleaning the fridge to maximize space and ensure food safety. Scrub the sink using a gentle cleaner to maintain a spotless appearance. These steps help create a clean and efficient space for holiday cooking and entertaining.
What steps should I take to ready my bathroom for guests?
Prepare your bathroom by decluttering drawers and wiping down countertops to ensure a clean and organized space. Restock essentials such as toilet paper, soap, and towels, and consider adding extra toiletries for convenience.
How can I make my entryway more welcoming for holiday guests?
To create a welcoming entryway, clear out the entryway closet by removing out-of-season items and organizing belongings. Use clear bins and labeled baskets for storage, and ensure easy access to coats with hooks.
What are some extra steps to keep my home spotless during the holidays?
For a spotless home, regularly vacuum rugs, especially in high-traffic areas, to remove dirt and allergens. Clean outdoor areas by sweeping walkways, clearing debris, and checking lighting. For guest rooms, declutter, freshen linens, and add a welcome basket of toiletries for a thoughtful touch.
