Introduction
For those who diligently maintain their homes, a question may pop up: is deep cleaning truly necessary, or is it merely for those who neglect their housekeeping duties? Well, there is a difference between regular cleaning and deep cleaning. Moreover, it is vital to indulge in a thorough house cleaning when the situation calls for it.
What is Regular Cleaning?
Regular cleaning is the consistent upkeep of your home, ensuring it remains tidy, organized, and free from dirt and dust. This routine process maintains a comfortable and hygienic living environment, preventing the buildup of grime and allergens while preserving the appearance and functionality of your home's surfaces and appliances.
Regular Cleaning Checklist
Dusting surfaces: This includes wiping down furniture, shelves, and other surfaces to remove dust and dirt.
Vacuuming and mopping floors: Regularly vacuuming carpets and rugs, as well as mopping hard floors, helps remove dirt, dust, and debris.
Wiping countertops and appliances: Kitchen countertops and appliances, such as stovetops, ovens, and microwaves, can accumulate grease and grime over time and should be regularly wiped down.
Cleaning bathrooms: Regularly cleaning sinks, toilets, bathtubs, and showers prevent the buildup of soap scum, mildew, and bacteria.
Other routine tasks: These may include tasks such as taking out the trash, doing laundry, washing dishes, and tidying up clutter.
What is Deep Cleaning?
Deep cleaning is a more thorough and comprehensive cleaning process that involves cleaning hard-to-reach areas, neglected spaces, and areas that are not typically cleaned during regular cleaning. It is typically done less frequently than regular cleaning and may involve more specialized cleaning equipment and techniques.
Home Deep Cleaning Checklist
Deep cleaning surpasses regular cleaning with meticulous attention to detail. This comprehensive cleaning covers not only standard tasks but also tackles neglected and hard-to-reach areas, ensuring every corner of your home is spotless. There is a home deep cleaning checklist that showcases how to deep clean specific home places.
Kitchen Deep Cleaning
For a thorough kitchen deep cleaning, begin by removing all items from countertops, cabinets, and drawers. This allows you to clean and sanitize all surfaces properly. Pay close attention to the inside and behind appliances such as the oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher, as these areas tend to accumulate dirt and grime. Remove grease buildup from the range hood and exhaust fan to maintain proper ventilation and prevent fire hazards. Don't forget to clean and sanitize the trash cans, as they can harbor bacteria and unpleasant odors. Wipe down all surfaces, including countertops, cabinet doors, and handles, using a suitable cleaning solution to ensure a clean and hygienic kitchen environment. Lastly, use an INSE W5 wet-dry vacuum to effortlessly clean the floors, ensuring that all stains and dirt are removed.
image source: @denise
Bathroom Deep Cleaning
Start by decluttering the space and removing all personal items from countertops, shower shelves, and cabinets. Focus on descaling the showerhead and faucets, as mineral deposits can affect water flow and appearance. Scrub the grout and tiles on the walls and floors to remove any mold, mildew, and stains. Disinfect wastebaskets and clean toothbrush holders to eliminate germs and bacteria. Address soap scum and hard water stains on glass shower doors, tubs, and sinks using appropriate cleaning agents. Thoroughly clean and sanitize the toilet, both inside and out, paying attention to the base and surrounding floor area. Finally, wipe down all surfaces, such as countertops, mirrors, and fixtures, using a suitable cleaning solution to ensure a sparkling and hygienic bathroom space.
Living Room Deep Cleaning
First, declutter the space and remove any unnecessary items, such as magazines, books, and knick-knacks. Move furniture to access areas behind and underneath, ensuring that all hidden dust and dirt are removed. Pay attention to washing baseboards, trim, and crown molding, as these areas tend to accumulate dust over time. If you have carpets or rugs, consider shampooing or steam cleaning them to remove embedded dirt and allergens. Dust and clean light fixtures, ceiling fans, and air vents to improve air quality and maintain a polished appearance. Wash windows, window sills, and tracks to let in natural light and enhance the overall cleanliness of the room. Don't forget to vacuum and clean upholstery on sofas, chairs, and other furniture, as well as wipe down surfaces like coffee tables, side tables, and entertainment centers using a suitable cleaning solution for a refreshed and inviting living room environment. It is advisable to use INSE S9 stick cordless vacuum to easy vacuum the living room as it has strong suction and versatile accessories that could help with deep cleaning.
Bedroom Deep Cleaning
Still, declutter the space, remove any unnecessary items, and organize your belongings. Strip the bed linens and wash them, including the mattress cover and pillowcases. Vacuum or steam clean the mattress to remove dust mites, allergens, and any lingering odors. Move furniture to clean behind and under it, ensuring that all hidden dust and dirt are removed. Pay close attention to washing baseboards, trim, and crown molding, as these areas tend to accumulate dust over time. If you have carpets or rugs, consider shampooing or steam cleaning them to remove embedded dirt and allergens. Dust and clean light fixtures, ceiling fans, and air vents to improve air quality and maintain a polished appearance. Wash windows, window sills, and tracks to let in natural light and enhance the overall cleanliness of the room. Finally, vacuum and clean upholstery on any chairs or other furniture, and wipe down surfaces like nightstands, dressers, and shelves using a suitable cleaning solution for a refreshed and relaxing bedroom environment.
What is the difference between regular cleaning and deep cleaning?
Focus: Regular cleaning maintains cleanliness and tidiness, while deep cleaning targets neglected and hard-to-reach areas.
Tasks: Regular cleaning includes vacuuming, mopping, and wiping surfaces, while deep cleaning involves scrubbing grout, disinfecting wastebaskets, and removing soap scum.
Frequency: Regular cleaning is performed daily or weekly, whereas deep cleaning is conducted less frequently, such as bi-annually or seasonally.
Duration: Deep cleaning takes more time and effort compared to regular cleaning due to its thoroughness.
Cost: Deep cleaning is generally more expensive than regular cleaning because of the additional tasks and time involved.
Is Deep Cleaning Necessary?
Yes, even if you perform regular cleaning, deep cleaning is still necessary as it serves a different purpose. A regular cleaning focuses on maintaining cleanliness and tidiness in your home by addressing daily and weekly tasks. However, deep cleaning targets areas that are often neglected during regular cleaning, such as behind appliances, under furniture, and inside cabinets.
Deep cleaning helps eliminate accumulated dirt, grime, and allergens that can affect your home's air quality and overall health. It is recommended to perform deep cleaning at least twice a year or more frequently, depending on your home's needs and lifestyle.
image source: @zoey
When do you need a house deep cleaning?
You should consider deep cleaning your home when you notice the following situations:
Persistent allergies or illnesses: Deep cleaning can help eliminate bacteria, viruses, and allergens that may cause consistent coughing, sniffles, or nose irritation.
Moving into a new home: If you're moving into a new home, it's a good idea to deep clean it before you unpack and settle in. This will ensure that you're starting with a clean slate and that the space is free of any dirt, dust, or allergens left behind by the previous occupants.
After a renovation or construction project: Construction work can create a lot of dust and debris, which can settle on surfaces and in hard-to-reach areas. Deep cleaning after a renovation or construction project can help remove dust and debris and restore your home to its pre-construction condition.
Seasonal changes: Spring and fall are good times to do a deep cleaning of your home. Spring cleaning gets rid of the dust and dirt that accumulates during the winter months, while fall cleaning prepares your home for the colder months ahead.
Before or after a big event: If you're hosting a party or event, or maybe New Year is approaching, you may want to deep clean your home beforehand to ensure that it looks its best. After the event, a deep clean can help restore your home to its pre-event condition.
Should I hire a deep Cleaning Service?
If you are short of time or energy, or maintaining a clean home brings you stress and anxiety associated with, it is advisable to hire a deep cleaning service.
How much does a deep cleaning cost per hour?
The hourly cost to hire deep cleaning services varies depending on the location and the cleaning company. The US hourly rate for house cleaning services ranges from $25 to $90 per individual or $50 to $90 per hour. The size and condition of your home and any specialized services will also impact the price.
Conclusion
While regular cleaning focuses on day-to-day tasks and contributes to overall cleanliness and hygiene, deep cleaning targets neglected and hard-to-reach areas, eliminating accumulated dirt, grime, and allergens that may affect your home's air quality and overall well-being. Although daily or weekly regular cleaning may make your home looks fine, deep cleaning still be a vital routine to keep your home hygienic and without any odor.