The best way to get your home guest-ready for the holidays is to clean in order: start with the rooms guests will see first, finish with the guest bathroom and bedroom, and schedule a deep cleaning one to two weeks ahead so the last days are only light touch-ups.
Use this room-by-room checklist to plan your holiday cleaning.
Two Weeks Before: Plan and Deep Clean
- Decide which rooms guests will use
- Book a deep cleaning for baseboards, trim, light fixtures and ceiling fans
- Declutter counters, entryways and closets guests may use
- Wash guest bedding and towels
Entryway and Living Room
- Wipe the front door, handles and light switches
- Clean entry floors and shake out or vacuum rugs
- Dust shelves, TV stands and decor
- Vacuum sofas and cushions
- Clean mirrors and glass surfaces
Kitchen
- Clear and wipe counters and backsplash
- Clean the outside of appliances and the microwave inside and out
- Clean the inside of the fridge to make room for holiday food (an add-on in professional cleaning)
- Clean the oven before holiday cooking (also an add-on)
- Wipe cabinet fronts and handles
- Sweep and mop the floor
Guest Bathroom
- Scrub the toilet, sink, tub and shower
- Polish mirrors and fixtures
- Restock toilet paper, hand soap and towels
- Empty the trash and wipe the floor
Guest Bedroom
- Make the bed with fresh linens
- Dust nightstands, dressers and lamps
- Clear space in the closet and drawers
- Vacuum or mop the floor
The Day Before Guests Arrive
- Do a quick pass on kitchen counters and bathrooms
- Vacuum high-traffic areas
- Take out the trash and recycling
- Set out extra towels and toiletries
Holiday Cleaning Supplies to Have on Hand
- Microfiber cloths and a duster with an extension handle
- All-purpose cleaner and glass cleaner
- Bathroom cleaner and a toilet brush
- A vacuum with attachments for upholstery and corners
- Mop and bucket or a spray mop
- Trash bags and recycling bags for the extra holiday packaging
How to Keep Your Home Clean During the Holidays
Once the house is clean, a few small habits keep it guest-ready all season:
- Set a basket by the door for shoes, coats and bags
- Run the dishwasher every night, even if it isn’t full
- Do a ten-minute reset of the kitchen and living room before bed
- Keep a stocked caddy of cleaning supplies in the guest bathroom
- Put a tray under the tree to catch needles and water
After the Holidays: Post-Holiday Cleaning
When the guests leave, a post-holiday deep cleaning helps clear pine needles, crumbs, glitter and the extra dust that builds up during a busy season. Focus on floors and rugs, kitchen surfaces, the inside of the fridge and the guest bathroom, then return to your regular standard cleaning schedule.
Let a Professional Handle It
The holidays are busy enough. Team Star Cleaning offers one-time deep and standard cleanings before and after the holidays across North and South Carolina, including Matthews, Weddington, Concord and Fort Mill. Add-ons such as the inside of the oven ($40) and fridge ($40) are easy to include.
Want your home ready before the guests arrive? Call (704) 835-5856 or request a free quote online.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book a cleaning before the holidays?
Book as early as possible. Many households schedule a deep cleaning one to two weeks before guests arrive and a lighter standard cleaning a day or two before the event.
What should I clean first before guests arrive?
Start with the rooms guests will see and use: the entryway, living room, kitchen and guest bathroom. Guest bedrooms come next.
Can I book a cleaning after the holidays too?
Yes. A post-holiday deep cleaning helps clear pine needles, crumbs, glitter and the extra dust that builds up during a busy season.
Do you offer one-time holiday cleanings?
Yes. You can book a one-time deep or standard cleaning for the holidays. Call (704) 835-5856 or request a free quote online.