10 things to clean before going on vacation

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10 things to clean before going on vacation

Heading to vacation leaves us with a long list of things to do, but ensuring our homes are tidy before we leave should be at the top of that list. Coming back to a clean and fresh home can make the transition from relaxation back to daily life much easier. Cleaning your house before you leave not only helps you avoid coming back to a mess, but it also keeps your home safe and makes it less inviting to pests. Let’s walk through 10 key areas that deserve attention before you lock up and head out.

1. Refrigerator

Before going on vacation, it’s smart to tackle the refrigerator. Begin by throwing out any food that will go bad before you return. This includes leftovers, dairy products, and opened condiments. Once you’ve emptied the perishables, take a moment to wipe down the shelves and drawers. This not only prevents odors but also stops mold from growing. Coming home to a clean fridge means you can restock with fresh groceries immediately, making your post-vacation life a bit easier.

2. Trash Bins

Emptying all trash bins in your house is a simple yet effective way to keep your home fresh. Garbage can start to smell and even attract pests if left for too long. Check every room—not just the kitchen—and make sure to take out the bathroom and bedroom trash too. After emptying, give your bins a quick rinse with soapy water to remove any lingering debris or sticky residue. This helps ensure that you won’t come back to unwanted smells or a mini bug invasion.

3. Kitchen Counters

Your kitchen counters can gather crumbs and spills that attract insects. To prevent this, wipe down all surfaces with a good disinfectant cleaner. Pay special attention to areas under appliances and around the sink, as these tend to collect food particles and moisture. A clean and dry kitchen counter not only looks welcoming but also discourages pests from making themselves at home while you’re away.

4. Bathroom

Give your bathroom a thorough cleaning by scrubbing the toilet, sink, and shower area. This reduces the chance of coming back to unpleasant odors or lime buildup. Use a strong cleaner for the toilet and an anti-mold spray for the shower, particularly focusing on grout lines where mold can easily grow. A sparkling bathroom means one less thing to worry about when you return.

5. Floors

Vacuuming and mopping your floors removes dust, dirt, and small debris. Make sure to reach under furniture and in corners where dirt tends to accumulate. Clean floors contribute to the overall freshness of your house and prevent the gritty feeling underfoot when you walk through the door after your vacation.

6. Bedding

Washing and changing your bedding before you leave ensures that you will come back to a fresh and inviting bed. Strip your bed linens and wash them in warm water. When they are clean and dry, make the bed neatly. This not only keeps your bedroom fresh but also makes it delightful to fall into after a long trip back home.

7. Laundry

Make sure to wash any dirty clothes before you leave. This prevents moldy smells from developing and means you won’t have to face a mountain of laundry when you get back. If possible, put away all the clothes, so your room looks neat and tidy. This task might seem small but can make a huge difference in how welcoming your home feels upon return.

8. Dishes

Wash all your dishes and put them away. This includes emptying the dishwasher. Leaving dishes out can attract pests and cause odors. Clean and dry dishes will ensure your kitchen remains fresh, and you won’t have to immediately do dishes when you’re likely tired from your travels.

9. Pet Areas

If you have pets, cleaning their areas is essential. Wash and sanitize litter boxes, cages, and bedding. This prevents odors and ensures that pets who stay home, or the pet sitter, have a clean space. It’s also comforting to know that your animal companions are in a hygienic environment while you’re away.

10. Mail and Paper

Lastly, clear away any mail or paper clutter. This reduces fire hazards and helps keep your home tidy. Organize important documents and discard junk mail. You might consider asking a neighbor to collect your mail if you expect important deliveries. This simple step can prevent a chaotic pile-up of papers and help maintain order in your home.

By ticking these tasks off your list, you set yourself up for a smooth and welcoming homecoming. Enjoy your vacation knowing that everything back home is in order.