Before you tackle the grime in your grout or the dust under your couch, you need a plan. Deep cleaning a house isn’t something you just start on a whim. It takes a bit of prep work, but that little bit of effort makes the job easier—and faster. Preparing your home properly can save you time, energy, and frustration. Plus, it sets the stage for results you can actually see and feel. Start by stocking up on the right supplies, like garbage bags by PlasticPlace or any other reputable company, and carve out some time to get your home ready to shine.
1. Declutter Every Room
Clutter is the number one obstacle to a deep clean. You can’t mop, dust, or vacuum properly if every surface is covered with stuff. Move through each room and separate your items into three simple groups—what you’ll keep, what you can donate, and what needs to be thrown away. Make it easy on yourself with an 8-gallon trash bag nearby for small items that need to go straight into the garbage. Don’t overthink every object. If you haven’t used it in a year or it has no sentimental or functional value, it’s probably safe to toss or donate. The fewer distractions you have lying around, the faster you’ll clean later.
2. Do a Quick Surface Clean
This might sound counterproductive, but a light clean before a deep clean helps a lot. Wipe down counters, make the beds, and pick up laundry. It gives you a blank slate and lets you focus on the tougher tasks later, like scrubbing grout or deep-cleaning upholstery. Think of it as laying the groundwork so that your actual deep cleaning targets the dirt you can’t normally get to—not the daily mess that just keeps piling up.
3. Gather All Your Cleaning Supplies in One Place
Nothing slows down cleaning like having to stop and look for tools. Collect everything you need ahead of time. That means all-purpose cleaners, scrub brushes, microfiber cloths, gloves, mop, broom, vacuum, and any specialty products you plan to use. If you’re working across multiple floors or larger spaces, use a cleaning caddy or even a laundry basket to carry your supplies from room to room. This simple step helps you stay focused and efficient.
4. Create a Room-by-Room Checklist
It’s easy to forget tasks when you’re cleaning. A checklist gives you structure and helps you avoid doing things twice. Break it down by room: what needs to be dusted, washed, vacuumed, or sanitized? Include overlooked spots like ceiling fan blades, baseboards, and behind appliances. Keep your checklist realistic—prioritize the areas that truly need attention and save less-used spaces for another day if needed.
5. Plan for the Trash
Deep cleaning produces more trash than you’d expect—especially if you’re purging drawers or closets. Make sure you’ve got sturdy garbage bags on hand and know where everything’s going. If you’re dealing with bulk trash, check if your city has guidelines or scheduled pickup days. Recycle what you can, but don’t hang onto broken items or outdated products “just in case.” You’ll thank yourself later when your space feels lighter and more open.
A thorough, deep clean is one of the best ways to reset your home. But jumping in without preparation can lead to burnout fast. Take the time to prep your space. It makes the actual cleaning smoother, quicker, and more satisfying. Plus, when everything is organized and ready to go, you’re more likely to finish the job instead of abandoning it halfway through. Get your supplies, clear the clutter, and start fresh—you’ve got this.