The holiday season brings joy, gatherings, and plenty of celebrations, but once the last guest leaves, you're left with a home that needs some serious cleaning. From food spills and decorations to general clutter, tackling the post-holiday mess can feel overwhelming. Follow this step-by-step guide to restore order and refresh your home after the festivities.
1. Pack Away Holiday Decorations
Start by carefully taking down holiday decorations. Organize and store them properly to make next year’s setup easier. Dispose of any broken ornaments, tangled lights, or dried-out wreaths. Use labeled bins to keep everything neat and accessible.
2. Clean and Organize the Kitchen
After holiday cooking and entertaining, the kitchen is often the messiest area.
- Wipe down countertops, appliances, and cabinets to remove grease and food splatters.
- Clean out the fridge, discarding expired leftovers and organizing remaining items.
- Deep clean the oven, stovetop, and microwave to eliminate lingering food residue.
3. Refresh High-Traffic Areas
With guests coming and going, floors and furniture take a hit during the holidays.
- Vacuum carpets and mop hard floors to remove dirt and debris.
- Wipe down doorknobs, light switches, and high-touch surfaces to eliminate germs.
- Clean and deodorize upholstery and cushions, as they tend to trap food crumbs and odors.
4. Remove Stains and Spills
Holiday gatherings often lead to accidental spills and stains. Address them quickly for the best results.
- Blot red wine spills with a mixture of dish soap and hydrogen peroxide.
- Use baking soda to absorb greasy stains on fabric or carpets.
- Wipe down dining tables and chairs to remove any sticky residue from meals or drinks.
5. Air Out and Deodorize
With all the cooking, candles, and guests, your home may have lingering odors.
- Open windows to let fresh air circulate.
- Wash linens, throw blankets, and decorative pillows that absorb food or smoke smells.
- Use natural deodorizers like baking soda or essential oil diffusers for a fresh scent.
6. Declutter and Organize
The holidays often bring new gifts, decorations, and packaging materials that can quickly create clutter.
- Find storage space for new items and donate anything you no longer need.
- Break down and recycle gift boxes and wrapping paper.
- Rearrange furniture and décor to create a refreshed, clutter-free space.
7. Schedule a Professional Deep Clean
If post-holiday cleaning feels overwhelming, consider bringing in a professional cleaning service. A deep clean can restore your home’s freshness and ensure every corner is spotless, giving you a fresh start for the new year.
Start the Year with a Clean Home – Let eMaids Help!
Instead of stressing over post-holiday cleaning, let the professionals at eMaids handle it for you. Book a cleaning today and enjoy a spotless home without the hassle!
