As a professional cleaner with over a decade of experience and a mom who’s tackled every kind of household mess, I’ve learned the value of a solid deep cleaning room by room checklist. I’ll never forget the spring when my house felt chaotic—dusty corners, cluttered closets, and a kitchen that hadn’t seen a thorough scrub in months.
I created a checklist to transform my home one room at a time, and it was a game-changer. Let me share my practical, step-by-step plan, personal stories, and homemade cleaning solutions to help you make your home sparkle from top to bottom.
Image by nimbushomes
Deep cleaning can feel daunting, but breaking it down room by room makes it manageable. My checklist uses simple, pet- and family-safe methods that fit busy schedules. Whether you’re prepping for a move, refreshing for the season, or just craving a spotless home, this guide will keep you organized and motivated.
Why a Room-by-Room Checklist Works
When I first started cleaning professionally, I’d tackle my entire house in one exhausting day, only to miss spots or burn out. Then, I tried focusing on one room at a time, and it changed everything. A room-by-room approach lets you concentrate on details—like baseboards, light fixtures, or hidden clutter—without feeling overwhelmed. It’s like giving each space its own mini-makeover.
My checklist covers the major rooms in most homes: kitchen, bathroom, living room, bedroom, and entryway. I use homemade cleaners to keep things safe and affordable, and I’ve timed each room to fit into a busy day. Here’s how I do it.
My Deep Cleaning Room-by-Room Checklist
This checklist is my go-to for transforming a home without losing my sanity. Each room has specific tasks, tools, and cleaners I’ve tested in my own home and for clients. Grab a caddy, some music, and let’s get started!
Kitchen: The Heart of the Home
The kitchen is where messes pile up—greasy stovetops, sticky cabinets, and forgotten fridge shelves. I learned this when I found spilled syrup in my pantry from a breakfast mishap.
Tools and Cleaners:
- Homemade all-purpose cleaner (1 cup water, 1 cup white vinegar, 1 tablespoon dish soap)
- Baking soda for scrubbing
- Microfiber cloths and a sponge
- Vacuum with attachments
- A bucket for soaking
Checklist:
Declutter First: Clear counters of dishes, appliances, or clutter. I put everything in its place or a temporary box.
Clean Appliances: Spray the all-purpose cleaner on the microwave, oven door, and fridge handles. Wipe with a microfiber cloth. For tough grease, I use a baking soda paste (2 tablespoons baking soda, 1 tablespoon water) and scrub gently.
Scrub the Sink: Sprinkle baking soda in the sink, scrub with a sponge, and rinse. I tackle stains around the drain with a toothbrush.
Wipe Cabinets and Counters: Spray cabinets with cleaner, wipe top to bottom, and buff dry to avoid streaks. I do counters last to catch crumbs.
Clean Inside Appliances: Empty the fridge, wipe shelves with the cleaner, and toss expired items. I vacuum the fridge coils with an attachment.
Tackle Floors: Vacuum or sweep, focusing on corners. Mop with a mix of ¼ cup vinegar in a gallon of warm water.
Details: Dust light fixtures, wipe baseboards, and clean under appliances. I use a damp cloth for baseboards to grab dust.
My kitchen felt like a disaster after a holiday baking spree. This checklist took about an hour, but the shiny counters and fresh fridge made it worth every minute.
Bathroom: The Germ Hotspot
Bathrooms need extra love because of soap scum, hair, and germs. I once found mildew behind my shower curtain and vowed never to skip a deep clean again.
Tools and Cleaners:
- All-purpose cleaner (same as above)
- Baking soda for scrubbing
- A toilet brush
- Microfiber cloths and a sponge
- A small broom or vacuum
Checklist:
Tidy Up: Put away toiletries, toss towels in the hamper, and empty the trash. I keep a small bag handy for quick cleanup.
Clean the Toilet: Sprinkle baking soda in the bowl, scrub with a brush, and flush. Spray the seat, lid, and base with cleaner, then wipe.
Scrub the Sink and Counter: Spray with cleaner, scrub with a sponge, and focus on faucet stains. I dry with a cloth for shine.
Clean the Shower/Tub: Spray tiles or tub with cleaner, let it sit for 5 minutes, then scrub. For mildew, I use a baking soda paste and rinse well.
Wipe the Mirror: Spray with cleaner and wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free finish.
Dust Surfaces: Wipe shelves, towel racks, and light fixtures with a damp cloth.
Clean the Floor: Sweep or vacuum, then mop with the vinegar-water mix. I get into grout lines with a toothbrush if needed.
That mildew behind the shower curtain was a wake-up call. This routine takes about 45 minutes, but my bathroom feels like a spa afterward.
Living Room: The Gathering Space
The living room is where my family spends most of our time, so it collects dust, pet hair, and clutter fast. Max, my dog, loves shedding on the couch, so this room needs regular attention.
Tools and Cleaners:
- Vacuum with upholstery attachment
- Microfiber cloths
- Furniture cleaner (½ cup rubbing alcohol, ½ cup water, 10 drops lemon essential oil)
- A duster or damp cloth
Checklist:
- Declutter: Gather stray items like toys or remotes. I use a basket to collect things for other rooms.
- Dust Surfaces: Wipe down shelves, coffee tables, and TV stands with a damp microfiber cloth. I dust picture frames and lamps too.
- Clean Upholstery: Spray my furniture cleaner on the couch, wipe with a cloth, and vacuum with the upholstery attachment. For pet hair, I use damp rubber gloves.
- Polish Windowsills: Wipe with a damp cloth to remove dust or pet hair.
- Vacuum Carpets/Rugs: Focus on high-traffic areas and under furniture. I move chairs to get every spot.
- Clean Baseboards: Use a damp cloth to wipe dust and hair from baseboards.
- Refresh Curtains: Shake out or vacuum curtains to remove dust.
Max’s fur was all over my couch before I started this routine. Now, a 40-minute deep clean keeps my living room guest-ready and pet-friendly.
Bedroom: The Restful Retreat
Bedrooms should feel calm, but dust and clutter can creep in. I once found dust bunnies under my bed that made me sneeze for days!
Tools and Cleaners:
- Vacuum with attachments
- Microfiber cloths
- All-purpose cleaner
- A duster for high spots
- Laundry basket
Checklist:
- Strip the Bed: Remove bedding and wash it. I vacuum the mattress to remove dust.
- Declutter: Put away clothes, books, or clutter. I use a laundry basket for stray items.
- Dust Surfaces: Wipe nightstands, dressers, and headboards with a damp cloth. I get into corners with a duster.
- Clean Windowsills and Frames: Spray with cleaner and wipe for a polished look.
- Vacuum Under Furniture: Move lightweight furniture to vacuum underneath. I was shocked at the dust under my bed!
- Wipe Baseboards: Use a damp cloth to catch dust and hair.
- Organize Closets: Straighten shoes and clothes. I donate items I don’t need to keep things tidy.
Cleaning my bedroom took 30 minutes, and the fresh sheets and dust-free space made it feel like a hotel room. I sleep better knowing it’s clean.
Entryway: The First Impression
The entryway sets the tone for your home, but it’s a magnet for dirt and clutter. My muddy boots and Max’s paw prints used to make mine a mess.
Tools and Cleaners:
- Broom or vacuum
- All-purpose cleaner
- Microfiber cloths
- A doormat
Checklist:
- Clear Clutter: Organize shoes, coats, and bags. I use a shoe rack to keep things neat.
- Sweep or Vacuum: Focus on corners where dirt collects. I shake out the doormat outside.
- Wipe Surfaces: Spray and wipe down tables, key hooks, or mirrors with cleaner.
- Clean the Door: Wipe the front door, especially around the handle, to remove fingerprints.
- Polish Floors: Mop with the vinegar-water mix for tile or hardwood. For rugs, I vacuum thoroughly.
- Dust Light Fixtures: Use a damp cloth to clean entryway lights or sconces.
My entryway used to look like a mud pit after rainy walks with Max. This 20-minute routine keeps it welcoming, and I love the first impression it gives.
My Cleaning Schedule for Deep Cleaning
To make deep cleaning manageable, I spread it out over a week. Here’s my schedule, designed for busy lives.
| Day | Room | Time Estimate | Why It Helps | My Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | Kitchen | 60 minutes | Tackles grease and grime; sets the week off right. | Start early to avoid distractions. |
| Tuesday | Bathroom | 45 minutes | Keeps germs at bay; makes the bathroom feel fresh. | Play music to stay motivated. |
| Wednesday | Living Room | 40 minutes | Refreshes the main gathering space; great for guests. | Vacuum last to catch all dust. |
| Thursday | Bedroom | 30 minutes | Creates a restful space; reduces allergens. | Wash bedding first to multitask. |
| Friday | Entryway | 20 minutes | Ensures a welcoming entrance; quick to finish. | Do it before the weekend for a clean start. |
Spreading tasks over a week kept me from feeling overwhelmed. My house felt like a new home by Friday, and I had energy to enjoy the weekend.
Homemade Cleaners for Deep Cleaning
I rely on two homemade cleaners for my checklist. They’re safe, cheap, and work on most surfaces.
All-Purpose Spray
This is my workhorse for counters, mirrors, and fixtures. The vinegar cuts through grime, dish soap tackles grease, and lemon oil adds a fresh scent. I used it on my kitchen counters after a spaghetti sauce spill, and it worked like magic.
Recipe:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mild dish soap
- 10 drops lemon essential oil
Mix in a spray bottle and shake gently. Test on delicate surfaces like wood or marble first.
Baking Soda Scrub
For tough stains or scrubbing, baking soda is my go-to. I use it dry for toilets or as a paste for sinks and grout.
How I Use It:
- Sprinkle dry baking soda on stains or in toilets, then scrub.
- For a paste, mix 2 tablespoons baking soda with 1 tablespoon water.
- Apply to stains, let sit for 5 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
My Experience: Baking soda saved my kitchen sink from a coffee ring stain. A quick scrub, and it was gone—no harsh chemicals needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made plenty of cleaning blunders, and I want to save you time. Here are mistakes I’ve learned to avoid:
- Skipping Decluttering: Clutter slows you down. I always tidy first to clear the way.
- Using Too Much Cleaner: Over-spraying leaves residue. I use light mists and wipe thoroughly.
- Ignoring Hidden Spots: Dust under furniture or in corners builds up. I always check these areas.
- Rushing Scrubbing: Gentle, steady scrubbing works better than frantic effort. I take my time on tough stains.
- Not Drying Surfaces: Wet counters or fixtures look streaky. I dry with a microfiber cloth for shine.
My Experience: I once skipped decluttering and spent half my time moving stuff around. Now, I start with a clear space, and cleaning is so much faster.
Why I Love This Checklist
This checklist has been a lifesaver for my busy life. It breaks deep cleaning into bite-sized tasks, uses safe ingredients, and makes my home feel like a sanctuary. I remember the first time I used it before a family gathering.
My house went from chaotic to sparkling in a week, and I felt so proud. Plus, my homemade cleaners save money and keep my home free of harsh chemical smells.
Preventing Messes Between Deep Cleans
A clean home stays cleaner with a few habits. Here’s what I do:
- Daily Tidying: I spend 5 minutes tidying each room to prevent clutter buildup.
- Spot-Cleaning: I dab spills or stains immediately with my all-purpose spray.
- Regular Vacuuming: I vacuum high-traffic areas twice a week to catch dust and pet hair.
- Use Mats: Doormats and rug pads catch dirt before it spreads.
- Ventilate: I open windows daily to keep air fresh and reduce dust.
Daily tidying started as a chore but became a habit. Now, my home stays ready for a deep clean, and I spend less time scrubbing.
Encouragement for Your Cleaning Journey
Deep cleaning your home room by room can feel like a big task, but you’ve got this! This checklist makes it manageable, and the results are so rewarding. Start with one room, enjoy the process, and celebrate the fresh, clean space you create.
You’re not just cleaning—you’re making your home a place of comfort and joy. I’m cheering you on every step of the way!
FAQ
How often should I deep clean my home?
I deep clean every 3–6 months, depending on the season or mess level. High-traffic rooms like the kitchen might need it more often.
Are your homemade cleaners safe for all surfaces?
My all-purpose spray is safe for most surfaces like tile and glass, but I test on delicate ones like wood or marble first. Baking soda is gentle but abrasive, so use sparingly on soft finishes.
What if I don’t have time for a full room?
I break it into smaller tasks. For example, clean the kitchen sink one day and appliances the next. It still feels like progress.
How do I handle pet hair in my deep clean?
I use a vacuum with a pet attachment and damp rubber gloves for furniture. Vacuuming under furniture catches hidden fur.
Can I use store-bought cleaners instead?
Sure, but I prefer homemade for safety and cost. If you use store-bought, choose eco-friendly, pet-safe options and follow the label.
What’s the fastest way to make my bathroom look clean?
I focus on the toilet, sink, and mirror with my all-purpose spray. A 10-minute clean makes it guest-ready without a full scrub.
