A deep clean can feel overwhelming if you dive in without preparation. While the urge to scrub every surface immediately is strong, professional organizers recommend a crucial first step: decluttering. This isn’t just about tidiness; it’s about efficiency and effectiveness. Clearing clutter before cleaning makes the process faster, more thorough, and prevents simply moving mess from one spot to another.
Here are six key areas to address before you start scrubbing:
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1. Kitchen Countertop Chaos
Countertops are often magnets for appliances, mail, and décor. According to organizers, this makes proper disinfecting impossible. The solution? Relocate daily-use items to cabinets and drawers. Discard expired, broken, or unused gadgets. Lifting appliances reveals hidden crumbs and grime, ensuring a truly deep clean.
2. Paper Piles & Unread Mail
Paper accumulates rapidly. Deep cleaning often means shifting piles instead of eliminating them. File important documents, recycle outdated magazines, and immediately shred or discard junk mail. A shredder and recycle bin near your mailbox can prevent clutter before it enters your home. A clear desk or surface is easier to sanitize and reset.
3. The Shoe Pile by the Door
Many homes now ban shoes at the entrance, but even those with relaxed rules often end up with a pile. This traps dirt and debris right where it enters the house. Before cleaning, discard worn-out shoes, store seasonal footwear, and limit daily wear to one pair per family member.
4. Pet Toys Everywhere
Pet supplies scatter quickly. While pets are family, their toys can hinder efficient vacuuming and sweeping. Examine toys for safety, discard broken items, and donate gently used ones to animal shelters. Keep a small, rotating selection in a designated bin to keep floors clear.
5. Bathroom Product Overload
Bathroom clutter hides grime. Before cleaning, remove everything from showers and under sinks. Discard expired products, consolidate duplicates, and wipe down container bottoms. Store seldom-used items elsewhere, returning only essentials after surfaces are dry. This prevents lingering rings and ensures a truly sanitized space.
6. Under-Sink Storage: The Hidden Mess
Kitchen and bathroom under-sink cabinets are notorious for leaks, mold, and buildup. Empty everything, discard expired cleaners and linens, and consolidate duplicates. Wipe down the cabinet interior, including handles and doors. Return only frequently used items to prevent hidden messes from reemerging.
A strategic declutter before deep cleaning transforms the process from a chore into an efficient reset. It ensures a cleaner, more organized home, and saves time in the long run.
