You’ve spent weeks, if not months, designing and carrying out the perfect home improvement. The end product is spectacular, and you are in awe of the lovely new room in front of you. But, before you can completely appreciate your newly remodeled home, you must complete one crucial step: cleaning. Dust and dirt from the makeover can soon gather, making your once-pristine area appear cluttered and uninviting. Don’t be discouraged by this final obstacle! You’ll be able to change your home from a construction zone into the comfortable comfy haven you’ve always desired with a little effort, the correct cleaning materials, and our helpful advice. Roll up your sleeves, gather your cleaning supplies, and let’s get started!
Pre-Clean-Up Checklist
Before beginning the cleaning process after a renovation, it’s important to take some safety precautions and gather all necessary cleaning supplies. Here’s a checklist to help ensure you’re prepared:
Safety Precautions
- Wear safety equipment, such as gloves, masks, and goggles, to prevent skin contact with cleaning agents or inhaling dust and debris.
- Turn off the HVAC system during cleaning to prevent dust from circulating throughout your home.
- Cover any furniture or surfaces not protected during the renovation to avoid further damage from cleaners or debris.
- Retain children and pets away from the area while cleaning.
Necessary Cleaning Supplies
- For floors and carpets, use a wet/dry vacuum or a HEPA filter
- Microfiber cleaning cloths for wiping down surfaces
- All-purpose cleaner for general cleaning
- Heavy-duty cleaner for tough stains
- Glass cleaner for windows, mirrors, and light fixtures
- Sponge or scrub brush for hard-to-clean areas
- Mop and bucket for tile or hardwood floors
- Trash bags for debris removal
Tips for Working Efficiently During the Cleanup Process
- Begin from the top of the room and work your way down to avoid re-cleaning surfaces
- Use a cleaning solution that’s safe for your specific flooring or surfaces
- Don’t forget to clean high-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, and cabinet handles
- Take frequent breaks to avoid exhaustion
- Stay organized by creating a cleaning plan or checklist
Following these safety precautions, gathering all necessary cleaning supplies, and working efficiently during the cleanup, you can ensure your home is clean and safe to live in after a renovation.
Interior Cleanup
Once you’ve taken safety precautions and gathered all necessary cleaning supplies, it’s time to start cleaning up the interior of your home after a renovation. Here are some tips for each specific task:
Removing Dust and Debris from Surfaces, Floors, and Carpets
- To get rid of dust and debris from floors, carpets, and surfaces, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter or a wet/dry vacuum.
- Use a microfiber cleaning cloth to wipe down surfaces and walls
- Don’t forget to clean baseboards and molding
Deep Cleaning Carpets, Rugs, and Upholstery
- Vacuum carpets and rugs thoroughly before deep cleaning
- Use a carpet cleaner or engage a professional to clean your carpets and rugs deep
- For upholstery, use an appropriate cleaner and follow the manufacturer’s instructions
- Don’t let carpets or upholstery get too wet during cleaning, as it can damage the material
Cleaning Blinds, Windows, and Light Fixtures
- Use a microfiber cloth or duster to clear dust from blinds and shades
- Clean windows inside and out using a glass cleaner and a squeegee or lint-free cloth
- For light fixtures, remove any coverings and wash in warm soapy water
- Don’t forget to cleanse ceiling fans and vents
Sanitizing Bathrooms and Kitchens
- Use an all-purpose cleaner or a specialized cleaner to sanitize counters, sinks, and toilets
- Sanitize high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and handles using a disinfectant spray or wipes
- For tougher stains, use a heavy-duty cleaner or baking soda and vinegar solution
- Don’t forget to clean appliances such as the oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher
By following these tips for removing dust and debris, deep cleaning carpets and upholstery, cleaning blinds and windows, and sanitizing bathrooms and kitchens, you can ensure that the interior of your home is clean and free of any unhealthy particles or bacteria left over from the renovation process.
Exterior Cleanup
After a renovation, the exterior of your home may also need cleaning. Here are some steps to help you thoroughly clean the outside of your house:
Handling Debris Removal from Both Inside and Outside the House
- Begin by removing any large debris from the yard with a rake or leaf blower
- Rent a dumpster or schedule a pickup for any leftover construction debris
- Remove any protective coverings or tarps that were used during the renovation
Cleaning Windows and Power Washing the Exterior of the House
- Use a glass cleaner and a squeegee to clean windows and doors
- Rent a power washer or hire a pro to power wash the outside of your house
- Pay close attention to difficult-to-reach places like eaves and gutters
Cleaning Outdoor Furniture and Grill
- Remove any cushions or fabric from outdoor furniture and wash them according to the manufacturer’s directions
- Wipe down outdoor furniture using a mild soap solution
- Use a grill brush to clear any debris from the grill grates and interior
- Wash the exterior of the grill with a grill cleaner
Following these steps ensures your house looks spotless from the outside and the inside after renovation. A clean exterior can improve curb appeal and make your house feel welcoming to guests.
Final Touches
Now that the cleaning process is finished, it’s time to focus on some final touches to make your house feel like home again.
Proper Disposal of Hazardous Materials
- Follow local regulations for disposing of hazardous materials such as paint, solvents, and batteries
- Contact a local waste management company if you’re unsure of how to dispose of certain materials
Adding Finishing Touches to Make the House Feel Like Home Again
- Hang up art and photos on the walls
- Add decorative accents such as pillows, throws, and area rugs
- Incorporate new lighting fixtures or curtains
- Bring in plants to add natural beauty to the space
Tips for Maintaining a Clean Home After Renovation
- Change air filters regularly to avoid dust buildup
- Use doormats to keep dirt and debris from entering the house
- Implement a regular cleaning schedule to stay on top of messes
- Vacuum or sweep floors regularly to avoid the buildup of dust and debris
These final steps ensure your house feels like home again and stays clean and organized even after renovations. You can enjoy your newly renovated space for years with a little effort and attention to detail.
A renovation can transform your home, but it’s important not to overlook the final step: cleaning up. By cleaning your home’s interior and exterior, you’ll enjoy the beauty of your new space fully. From removing dust and debris to adding finishing touches, our guide has provided the tools and tips to make the post-renovation cleanup process as smooth and efficient as possible. Remember to take proper safety precautions, gather all the necessary supplies, and work efficiently to maximize your efforts. With a little elbow grease and dedication, you’ll live in a beautifully clean and welcoming space in no time!
