No matter how big or small, a total house cleanout can feel like an impossibly daunting task. The truth is that often, our stuff accumulates to such an extent that we don’t know where to start or what to do with what’s been collected.
If you are planning to move or sell your house, it is important to stage it. Staging is a concept that involves lighting, organization, and decorating.
One important step in staging is cleaning. A total house cleanout will help you get rid of unwanted clutter. Plus, it will make your rooms look bigger, which is an appealing quality for buyers.
To learn how to do a total house cleanout, keep reading.
Creating a Plan
When it comes to doing a total house cleanout, creating a plan is the first essential step. Start by mapping out which rooms need the most attention and make a list of items and surfaces that need to be cleaned.
Once you have an idea of the scope and intensity of the project, break your plan down into daily tasks, or smaller chunks of work that can be done in manageable amounts of time. Start with the most difficult tasks, such as deep cleaning carpets or shampooing upholstery, and use a checklist to stay on track.
Divide and conquer as you gather helpers, friends, or family members, to help speed up the process. Factor in time for organizing and don’t forget to reward yourself when you complete each major or minor task.
Gather Cleaning Supplies and Tools
In order to do a total cleanout house, it is important to gather the necessary cleaning supplies and tools. This includes all-purpose cleaners, sponges, paper towels, scrub brushes, mops, brooms, vacuums, and dusters.
Depending on the surface being cleaned, additional supplies may be needed such as window cleaners, carpet and grout cleaners, and specialty cleaners for wood, tile, and stainless steel surfaces. Ensure that the appropriate safety precautions are taken and that hazardous products are kept away from children and pets.
Have garbage bags and receptacles ready so that as clutter is sorted, it can easily be discarded. It is important to remember to wear proper clothing and use rubber gloves when using chemical cleaners.
Start Room by Room
Start with the highest traffic areas such as the living room and kitchen. These areas can be the most overwhelming to tackle, so it’s important to be thorough.
Begin by doing a thorough sweep of the area, picking up any debris, and wiping away dirt or dust. Clean upholstery with an upholstery cleaner and use a vacuum on carpets and rugs. Clear out any cluttered areas and move furniture around.
Dust and wipe all shelves, tables, and countertops. Move into other rooms in the house, including bedrooms, bathrooms, closets, and attics. The same basic steps should be taken for each area.
Make sure to get into every nook and cranny with a duster, wiping away dust and dirt. Sweep and mop all floors.
When finished with each room, ensure the area is clutter-free and organized. This will make it easier to maintain the space in the future.
Set Priorities
Begin by determining which area needs the most attention, such as a cluttered bedroom or a dust-filled family room. Make a list of items in each space that need to be moved, thrown out, or donated.
You will then be able to focus on what needs to be done first. In the bedrooms, start by clearing out unwanted items or furniture that no longer serves a purpose. Then move on to surfaces, such as the tops of dressers and headboards.
As you go through each room, identify any items that need to be moved to other rooms or discarded altogether. Break out the vacuum or mop and scrub away the dust, dirt, and grime that has accumulated in the corners and crevices.
Separate Necessary and Unnecessary Items
Necessary items are items that are used frequently and help you go about your daily life, such as clothes, furniture, utensils, and hygiene and cleaning supplies. Unnecessary items are items that are not essential for everyday life and can be eliminated in order to achieve a more organized, decluttered lifestyle.
Start by assessing household items one by one and determining which items can be eliminated without significant repercussions. Do you really need those extra dishes or that set of duplicate cookware in the back of the cabinet? Are those old magazines still relevant?
To make the process smoother, set aside three piles: ‘Keep’, ‘Give Away or Sell’, and ‘Trash’. This will make disposing of unnecessary items a much quicker and easier process and will help you get one step closer to the desired organized and minimal household.
Dispose of Junk Properly and Responsibly
Begin by making a list of items that you will be disposing of. Collect them in a designated area, like a pile in the garage or a room in the house.
Separate the items into recyclables, donations, and trash to better manage what will be disposed of. Schedule a pickup of the recyclables with your local city or scout out your neighborhood for a recycling bin.
Contact organizations that accept donations and arrange for drop-off or pick-up of the items. If you have large items like furniture or appliances, contact your local thrift store or hauling service to arrange for pickup.
Safely throw out junk by taking it to a landfill or by using a bin rental service. If you need more ideas about disposing of junk, you should see this dumpster rental company that could help.
Making a House Cleanout Routine
Our total house cleanout is a great starting point for being organized and mindful of our spaces. If you have a checklist and focus on one room at a time, our process can be completed in a few days.
Try out our approach today and you’ll be impressed with how refreshed and clean your home feels!
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