Professional cleaners see it all. They know which areas homeowners consistently miss when prepping for guests, and the results can range from slightly embarrassing to outright unsanitary. This isn’t about perfection; it’s about avoiding those last-minute discoveries that make you cringe. Here’s what experts say you’re likely forgetting, and how to fix it before the holiday rush.
The First Impression: Doormats and Boot Trays
The entrance is ground zero for dirt, and most people underestimate how quickly it spreads. Kathy Cohoon, operations director at Two Maids, emphasizes that doormats and boot trays aren’t just about appearances. They’re about preventing a trail of debris throughout the house.
“This is the first place guests see, and where dirt spreads fastest,” Cohoon says. Shake out or vacuum mats thoroughly, and clean the floor underneath. A boot tray keeps snow, leaves, and water contained. Tanu Grewal, chief cleaning officer at Pinalen, suggests a power washer or hose for heavily soiled mats. A quick scrub with a sponge or brush works for lighter dirt.
Hidden Grime: Shower Caddies and Shelves
Overnight guests mean a closer inspection of bathrooms. Shower caddies and shelves accumulate soap scum, hair, and dried shampoo. Piper, an expert cleaner, points out that a grimy caddy undermines even a sparkling clean tub. The fix? Empty the caddy, let it soak in a soap scum remover, and scrub thoroughly before restocking.
Behind the Scenes: Appliances and Vents
Cleaning behind major kitchen appliances is often a once-a-year task. But with increased cooking during the holidays, crumbs, grease, and drips accumulate quickly. Pull appliances out just enough to vacuum and wipe down the floor. Cleaning the fridge vent or grille improves efficiency when it’s working harder to store holiday ingredients. Don’t forget a deep clean for the coffee maker – fresh coffee is essential for those chilly mornings.
The Forgotten Details: Dining Chairs
You meticulously polish the dining table, but what about the chairs? Crumbs and dust build up on backs, legs, and hidden nooks. A quick wipe-down prevents last-minute embarrassment when guests arrive. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
Ignoring these spots isn’t a sign of poor cleaning habits; it’s simply a matter of oversight. Professional cleaners see these missed areas repeatedly. Addressing them proactively ensures a cleaner, more welcoming home for the holidays
