Deep Cleaning Checklist
Are you ready to revitalize your space with a deep cleaning checklist that won’t overwhelm your busy schedule? We’ve got you covered with a free printable that will keep you organized and make your deep cleaning routine a breeze.
Nothing gives your home a face lift like a good deep cleaning session. Deep cleaning goes beyond regular tidying and gives every nook and cranny the attention it deserves. As busy moms, finding time to tackle these bigger tasks can be challenging, but a systematic approach ensures nothing gets missed.
Consistent deep cleaning helps reduce allergens, banish hidden dirt, and maintain a healthier environment for your entire family—Don’t do it alone though. Get your whole family involved in the process. Not only does this lighten your load, it also teaches valuable cleaning skills that everyone should know.
How Often Should You Deep Clean?
Every home is different, but most areas benefit from a deep cleaning at least once every quarter. Certain spots—like the refrigerator or bathroom grout(or teen bathrooms…you know what I’m talking about)—may need extra attention more often. Adapt this checklist to fit your family’s unique needs, schedule, and lifestyle.
Deep Cleaning Supply Checklist
Stock up on the essentials so you can be prepared to jump right into deep cleaning without needing to take any unexpected stops for a run to the store.
For more cleaning product recommendations, check out our Amazon storefront here.
Having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Here are our top recommended products:
The Best Microfiber Cloths for Cleaning
Microfiber cloths are a must-have for deep cleaning because they trap dirt, dust, and bacteria more effectively than traditional cotton rags, all while being gentle on surfaces. These ultra-soft MR.SIGA cloths are the absolute best we’ve found and they leave counters, appliances, and even glass streak-free, making them a versatile choice for any room. The reinforced edges and lint-free design let you tackle spills, grease, and grime without scratching, and their machine-washable material means you can reuse them again and again—an eco-friendly, budget-friendly staple in every deep cleaning toolkit.
Pro tip: I like keeping a different color for kitchens, bathrooms, and dusting so I don’t mix up rags or end up washing them together without realizing it.
Best All Purpose Cleaner for Deep Cleaning
An all-purpose cleaner is the workhorse of your deep cleaning arsenal. It tackles multiple surfaces—like countertops, tile, wood, and even glass if you are feeling feisty—without requiring you to switch to a different product every time you move to a new area. I don’t like heavy fumes for standard cleaning jobs so the Method All-Purpose Cleaner in Pink Grapefruit is my go-to. It’s plant-based, biodegradable formula cuts through grease and grime while leaving behind a refreshing scent. With fewer harsh chemicals and a reduced environmental impact, this all-purpose cleaner saves you time and effort, making it the go-to solution for a quick yet thorough home deep clean.
My other go-to is straight up vinegar or vinegar diluted with a bit of water. It leaves no vinegar scent when it dries and it is super cheap to clean with. I actually like the smell of vinegar too so that’s a perk for me while I’m cleaning.
You could also go with this homemade cleaning solution.
Best Cleaning wipes with Disinfectant – Clorox Disinfecting Wipes
Some jobs do require some serious disinfectant. I still don’t love the fumes so for those jobs I love using these Clorox Disinfecting Wipes.
These are a must-have for deep cleaning jobs because they kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, including the COVID-19 virus, in just 15 seconds. They’re incredibly versatile for wiping down various surfaces—like kitchen counters or bathroom fixtures—making it easy to stay on top of germs with minimal effort.
Bonus: You throw them away when they are done so you can save your microfiber rags for the tamer cleaning jobs.
Best Deep Cleaning Disinfectant Spray
For times when you really just need a disinfecting spray, I love this milder disinfecting mist from clorox. The Clorox Free & Clear Mist uses a plant-based active ingredient to kill 99.9% of viruses and bacteria, all without harsh fumes or fragrances. Its aerosol-free, continuous fine mist makes covering large areas simple, making it a family-friendly choice for deep cleaning.
Best All Around Deep Cleaning Tool – Scrub Daddy
Scrub Daddy sponges are a game-changer for deep cleaning because their unique FlexTexture foam stays firm in cold water for tough messes yet softens in warm water for gentle tasks. They’re also scratch-free, odor-resistant, and designed to clean all kinds of surfaces—from delicate cookware to gritty bathroom tiles—without leaving unsightly marks. Plus, their ergonomic shape fits perfectly in your hand, allowing you to scrub more efficiently and tackle bigger jobs in less time.
We use these for doing dishes but they are also amazing for cleaning showers, bathroom floors and any other spaces that you need to get clean.
Rubber Broom for Deep Cleaning Jobs
You likely already have a regular household broom but for for some jobs, a rubber broom can’t be beat. The MR.SIGA Pet Hair Removal Rubber Broom is a must-have for deep cleaning, effortlessly capturing pet hair from both carpets and hard floors with its specially designed rubber bristles.
You can even attach a microfiber cloth to this and use it for dusting. This is a must-have for deep cleaning jobs (and every day cleaning). The adjustable handle makes it super versatile to use for all kinds of jobs in your home and this will definitely get a lot of use during a deep cleaning session.
Pro Tip: Keep all these supplies organized in a portable cleaning caddy, so you can easily move from room to room without wasting time hunting for the right tools!
Beckham Hotel Collection Bed Pillows
If there is one thing I will not deep clean without, it is my steam cleaner! The Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner is an essential tool for deep cleaning, using powerful superheated steam to effortlessly dissolve dirt, grease, and grime on a variety of surfaces including floors, cars, and tiles—all without the need for harsh chemicals. Its versatile 17-piece kit and compact, portable design make it easy to tackle any cleaning task, while the large tank capacity provides up to 50 minutes of continuous steam for a thorough, chemical-free clean every time.
Scrub Brush Set for Deep Cleaning
A comprehensive brush set like the Holikme 7 Pack Deep Cleaning Brush Set is essential for tackling every nook and cranny during deep cleaning, with specialized brushes designed for grout, grooves, and stubborn stains. Its versatile tools and ergonomic design make it easy to clean everything from bathroom tiles and pool walls to kitchen surfaces and beyond, ensuring a spotless home with minimal effort.
Also helpful is a crevice brush set like this one can be helpful for cleaning around the sink in bathrooms too.
Create a Realistic Deep Cleaning
Deep cleaning can seem overwhelming, especially if you are juggling a career and kids’ schedules.
To make the process manageable, it’s essential to create a realistic schedule that breaks down tasks into smaller, more achievable steps.
Deep cleaning does not have to happen all at once. Breaking it into smaller projects is a great way to make sure it gets done on a regular basis.
Break Down Tasks
Start by listing all the areas and specific tasks that need attention, then prioritize them based on urgency and importance. For instance, you might designate certain rooms for specific days of the week or allocate a few hours each weekend to handle more intensive cleaning tasks.
Prevent Burnout
By spreading out the workload, you prevent burnout and ensure that every part of your home receives the attention it deserves without disrupting your daily routine. This approach makes the deep cleaning process less overwhelming and more sustainable.
Involve Your Family
Involving your family can also make creating and sticking to a schedule easier and more efficient. Assign age-appropriate tasks to your children and collaborate with your partner to divide responsibilities, turning deep cleaning into a team effort.
If you have younger kids, try using this printable cleaning checklist for kids to get them involved in the process.
Utilize Organizational Tools
Utilize tools like shared calendars, digital planners, or printable checklists to keep everyone organized and accountable. These tools help track progress and ensure that all tasks are completed on schedule.
Build in Flexibility
Additionally, build in some flexibility to accommodate unexpected events or changes in your household’s schedule. A well-structured yet adaptable cleaning schedule not only makes deep cleaning less daunting but also helps maintain a consistently clean and welcoming home environment for your entire family.
Declutter Before You Clean
There is no reason to make things harder on yourself than it needs to be. Declutter before you start to clean and the process will be a lot simpler.
Removing unnecessary items not only makes cleaning surfaces easier but also helps you keep your home cleaner moving forward.
You could even turn it into a money-making opportunity. I once made $700 decluttering my home in a weekend!
If you are not sure where to start, a 30-day decluttering challenge can be a great way to jump-start your progress.
Go here to download our 30 day decluttering challenge plan and get started today!
Identify Unnecessary Items
Start by going through each room and identifying items that are no longer needed, used, or loved. This could include outdated decorations, broken appliances, or clothes that no longer fit. Being honest about what you truly need helps streamline the decluttering process and ensures that only essential items remain.
Use Simple Decluttering Strategies
Utilize simple strategies like the basket method—where you sort items into categories such as keep, donate, and discard—or set a timer for short decluttering sessions to maintain focus and prevent feeling overwhelmed. These methods make the task more manageable and help you make steady progress without getting bogged down.
Make it Easier to Deep Clean by Decluttering
Decluttering also enhances the effectiveness of your cleaning efforts by allowing you to reach hidden areas and corners that are often missed when clutter is present. For example, clearing off kitchen countertops and organizing drawers can make wiping surfaces and disinfecting much more efficient, ensuring a deeper and more thorough clean.
Have Each Family Member Declutter
Additionally, involving your family in the decluttering process can lighten the load and teach valuable organizational skills. Assign specific tasks to each family member, such as sorting toys, organizing closets, or clearing out the garage. This not only speeds up the decluttering process but also fosters a sense of teamwork and responsibility among all household members.
By decluttering first, you set a solid foundation for a thorough and successful deep clean, ensuring that every area of your home shines brightly and remains clutter-free. This organized approach makes the subsequent cleaning tasks easier and more efficient, ultimately creating a more comfortable and inviting living space for your entire family.
Deep Cleaning Checklist by Room
Kitchen
- Refrigerator & Freezer: Empty contents, discard expired items, wipe down shelves and drawers.
- Oven & Stovetop: Clean racks, wipe spills, and scrub burners or drip pans.
- Cabinets & Drawers: Wipe down doors, handles, and inner surfaces; reorganize contents.
- Countertops & Backsplash: Disinfect all surfaces and pay special attention to grout if tiled.
- Sink & Faucet: Deep clean the drain, remove mineral deposits, polish faucets.
Bathrooms
- Shower & Bathtub: Scrub tiles and grout, remove hard water spots, wash shower curtains or liners.
- Toilet: Clean every surface from the bowl to the base, including behind the toilet.
- Sink & Vanity: Wipe down mirrors, fixtures, and inside drawers; toss expired toiletries.
- Flooring & Grout: Use a specialty grout cleaner or a vinegar-based solution to tackle stubborn stains.
Living Room
- Furniture: Vacuum upholstered pieces, spot clean stains, wipe down wooden surfaces.
- Carpets & Rugs: Steam-clean or use a carpet shampooer for a fresh look.
- Electronics: Dust TVs and other devices with a microfiber cloth; organize and label cords.
- Windows & Blinds: Clean windows inside and out; dust blinds or curtains.
Bedrooms
- Mattress & Bedding: Rotate or flip the mattress, vacuum it to remove dust mites, and wash or refresh linens.
- Closets & Dressers: Sort through clothes for donations, wipe down drawers, and reorganize.
- Floors & Baseboards: Thoroughly vacuum and mop, paying close attention to corners.
- Ceiling Fans & Light Fixtures: Dust blades and fixtures, replace light bulbs if needed.
Home Office
- Desk & Drawers: Sort through documents, discard clutter, wipe surfaces, and disinfect your keyboard and mouse.
- Electronics: Dust screens, cables, and any tech accessories.
- Shelves & Bookcases: Remove items, dust thoroughly, and only replace what you need.
Laundry Room
- Washing Machine & Dryer: Run a cleaning cycle, wipe down interiors, clear the lint trap and dryer ducts.
- Shelves & Cabinets: Remove detergent buildup, wipe surfaces, and reorganize supplies.
- Floors & Appliances: Sweep and mop; if possible, move appliances to clean underneath.
Entryway & Hallways
- Coat Closet: Clear out unused items, donate or store seasonal pieces, wipe shelves.
- Flooring: Sweep or vacuum these high-traffic zones regularly, then mop.
- Walls & Light Switches: Spot clean any scuff marks or fingerprints.
Deep Cleaning Checklist – Maintenance Tips
- Daily Quick Tidy
Spend 15 minutes each day clearing clutter from counters, tables, and floors. Small efforts add up and keep deep cleaning tasks more manageable. - Weekly Mini-Deep Cleans
Choose one or two items from the checklist to tackle each week—like scrubbing bathroom grout or wiping down kitchen cabinets. - Get the Whole Family Involved
Assign daily or weekly tasks to kids and partners. Turning chores into a family affair makes things faster and teaches valuable life skills. - Use a Printable Checklist or App
Keep track of your tasks with a printable checklist (available below) or a cleaning app that sends reminders and divides chores into bite-sized pieces.
Deep cleaning may seem daunting at first, but breaking your tasks down, using the right tools, and following a structured plan can transform your home without overwhelming your busy schedule.
Deep Cleaning Checklist Printable
Ready to get started? Download our free printable deep cleaning checklist to stay on track and see just how simple it can be to maintain a sparkling, healthy home.
Click here to download your free printable deep cleaning checklist.
