How To Clean A House Professionally Checklist

Professional house cleaning services can make even the messiest homes sparkle like new. The key to their efficiency lies in a meticulous checklist, which organises tasks and ensures no corner of your home goes untouched. But, what if you could achieve the same results with your DIY cleaning? In this comprehensive guide, not only will you learn why checklists are critical for professional cleaning, but you’ll also get your hands on 12 pre-designed house cleaning checklists, ready for use.

How to clean a house professionally

Professional cleaning isn’t just about the elbow grease; it’s about strategy. When you’re cleaning a home, whether it’s yours or someone else’s, you need a system in place to ensure you’re working smart, not hard. A cleaning checklist can be your organizational friend, helping you break down the cleaning process into manageable tasks.

But before you take out a single rag, follow these essential steps to ensure your professional house cleaning session goes smoothly.

Use basic cleaning checklists to plan before every cleaning job

A basic cleaning checklist will help you plan your approach to different jobs, whether you’re preparing to clean a single room or an entire house. It should include a list of all tasks that need completion, including dusting, vacuuming, and any speciality services required.

Organize your cleaning supplies

A professional never blames their tools because they have them organized and ready to go. Make sure you have all the appropriate cleaning supplies for the job — multi-surface cleaners, sponges, dusting tools, and more. Ensure that everything is easy to transport and that you have backups stocked.

Create regular and deep-cleaning checklists

Regular cleaning keeps your home looking great on a day-to-day basis, but deep cleaning is where you tackle the chores that often get overlooked, such as inside appliances, under furniture, and on high ledges. Having checklists for both makes it easier to plan and schedule your cleaning routine.

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Professional house cleaning checklists

A generic cleaning list is a great starting point, but specificity is key. Below are several sample checklists designed to cater to various cleaning needs and schedules. Each can be used as is, but they’re also customisable to fit your unique home or the requirements of a cleaning company.

Regular house cleaning tasks

This list includes daily and weekly maintenance like making beds, wiping surfaces, and cleaning floors. It’s for homes that are generally tidy, but need to maintain cleanliness regularly.

1. Make beds and fluff pillows. (daily)
2. Wipe down surfaces and kitchen counters. (daily)
3. Empty trash bins in all rooms. (daily or as needed)
4. Vacuum and mop floors. (weekly)
5. Wipe down bathroom and kitchen fixtures. (weekly)
6. Dust furniture and other surfaces. (as needed)

Weekly cleaning checklist

Even if you have a regular cleaning routine, it’s easy for dirt and clutter to pile up over the week. This checklist includes tasks that should be done at least once a week to keep your home consistently clean.

1. Do laundry and put away clean clothes. (weekly)
2. Clean mirrors and windows. (weekly)
3. Sanitize bathroom surfaces. (weekly to prevent mold and mildew)
4. Sweep and mop floors. (weekly)
5. Dust all surfaces, paying attention to electronics and knick-knacks. (weekly)
6. Clean and disinfect kitchen sink. (weekly)

Deep cleaning checklist

Sometimes you need to roll up your sleeves and get into the nitty-gritty. Use this list to tackle those overlooked areas that only need to be cleaned thoroughly once in a while.

1. Clean inside and outside of appliances (fridge, oven, etc.). (once a month)
2. Wipe down baseboards and walls. (once a month)
3. Check and clean light fixtures and shades. (every two months)
4. Vacuum and wash curtains. (every season)
5. Dust and clean ceiling corners and fans. (every season)
6. Deep clean carpets or schedule a professional cleaning. (annually or as needed)

Move-out cleaning checklist

If you or someone you know is preparing to move, this list is your pre-inspection best friend. It ensures that the property is left in a spotless condition, ready for new occupants.

1. Dust and clean all fixtures and surfaces.
2. Remove cobwebs from rooms.
3. Clean and disinfect all bathrooms.
4. Wipe down and sanitize kitchen appliances and cabinets.
5. Vacuum and mop all floors.
6. Remove all trash and debris from the property.

Monthly cleaning checklist

Incorporate these tasks into your monthly cleaning routine to maintain a clean and fresh living space. This can include air freshening, spot cleaning fabric, and organizing.

1. Change filters in the HVAC system.
2. Clean vents and radiators.
3. Rotate and clean window treatments.
4. Dust and clean light bulbs and lamps.
5. Wipe down tables and chairs.
6. Vacuum and spot clean upholstery and carpet stains.

Cleaning checklist for Airbnb

For those who open their homes or properties to guests, this checklist is crucial to maintain high ratings and a pleasant stay for your visitors.

1. Wash and change all bedding.
2. Disinfect bathrooms and restock amenities.
3. Ensure kitchenware and appliances are clean and ready for use.
4. Vacuum and remove any signs of the previous guests.
5. Wipe down surfaces and provide a welcoming atmosphere.
6. Inspect for any maintenance or damage issues that may need attention.

Cleaning checklists by room

Different rooms in your house require different cleaning methods and schedules. Here’s a guide on how to clean each room effectively.

Kitchen cleaning checklist

The kitchen is the heart of the home and can easily become the messiest. A kitchen cleaning checklist helps you stay on top of spills and messes that are bound to happen in this high-traffic area.

1. Clear and declutter countertops.
2. Sanitize sinks and countertops.
3. Clean and disinfect appliances, interior and exterior.
4. Empty, clean, and sanitize trash bins.
5. Sweep and mop floors.
6. Organize pantry and cupboard items as needed.

Bathroom cleaning checklist

Bathrooms are breeding ground for germs. Keep on top of cleaning these areas to maintain a hygienic space for everyone in your home.

1. Clean and disinfect toilet, tub, shower, and sink.
2. Polish mirrors and fixtures.
3. Wipe down all surfaces, including tiles and counters.
4. Empty, clean, and sanitize trash bins.
5. Stock up on toilet paper and hand soap.
6. Check for any mold or mildew in hard-to-reach areas.

Bedroom cleaning checklist

Bedrooms are a personal sanctuary, but they need to be clean to be truly calming. Use this checklist for a serene sleeping space.

1. Make beds and fluff pillows.
2. Dust and wipe down furniture.
3. Organize closets and drawers.
4. Vacuum carpets and rugs.
5. Change and wash linens and blankets.
6. Open windows to air out the room.

Living areas cleaning checklist

Living rooms and other communal areas see a lot of use. Keep them inviting with this thorough checklist.

1. Dust all surfaces, including electronics and shelves.
2. Vacuum sofas and arrange pillows.
3. Wipe down tables and entertainment units.
4. Organize books and media.
5. Vacuum or mop floors as needed.
6. Spot clean any upholstery as necessary.

Window cleaning checklist

Cleaning windows can transform the light and feel of a space. Use this checklist to ensure you’re not leaving streaks or spots behind.

1. Remove and wash curtains or blinds.
2. Dust window sills and tracks.
3. Mix a solution of water and vinegar.
4. Apply the solution to windows and wipe clean with a squeegee.
5. Use a microfiber cloth for extra shine and no streaks.
6. Inspect for any damage or seals that may need repair.

Create a mobile-friendly house cleaning checklist

Now that you have these 12 different checklists, you may wonder how you can keep track of them all without being bogged down by paper. The solution? Turn them mobile. By maintaining a digital checklist, you can easily check off tasks as you complete them and have the lists organized by room or frequency of use.

This level of organization and productivity is what sets the professionals apart from the amateurs. With these checklists at your disposal, you’re well on your way to achieving the clean, organized home you’ve always dreamed of.

Ready to create your first checklist?

Start by downloading and customizing one of the templates provided. Remember, the most effective checklists are those that are tailored to fit your specific needs and the unique attributes of your home. Check out our related reading for more in-depth guidance on how checklists can revolutionize your cleaning routine.

How Much to Charge for House Cleaning: Prices, Rates, Examples

Determining the right price for house cleaning services can be a challenging task. It largely depends on a variety of factors including the size of the home, the level of cleaning required, geographical location, and any special requests or additional services. On average, residential cleaning services charge between $25 to $50 per hour per cleaner. However, for a more detailed cleaning service, such as deep cleaning or move-out cleaning, rates can increase.

Examples of Pricing Structures Include:

• By the Hour: Charging by the hour ensures you are paid for every minute spent cleaning. For example, charging $30 per hour for basic cleaning services.
• By the Square Footage: Some services charge based on the total square footage of the home. For instance, $0.10 per square foot might be the rate for homes up to 2,000 square feet, with incremental increases for larger homes.
• Flat Fee: Offering a flat fee for each type of cleaning service can simplify your pricing structure. For example, $120 for a standard cleaning of a two-bedroom apartment.
• Add-on Services: Additional charges can be applied for tasks outside standard services, such as oven cleaning, refrigerator cleaning, or window washing. These could range from $20 to $50 per task.

It is also important to consider what competitors in your area are charging and to ensure your rates are competitive yet fair for the quality of service you provide. Offering package deals or discounts for regular clients can also be a strategic way to attract and retain customers. Lastly, always communicate clearly with your clients about what is included in each service to avoid any misunderstandings or dissatisfaction.

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