The countdown to holiday hosting is on, and for many, the to-do list feels endless. But according to professional cleaners, a strategic approach to pre-holiday cleaning can ease the pressure and ensure your home is ready for guests. We asked industry experts for their go-to tasks before Thanksgiving and Christmas, and the advice centers on prioritizing high-traffic areas and planning ahead.
Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid USA, emphasizes the value of a cleaning schedule. “Stick to a timeline so you’re not overwhelmed,” she advises, suggesting that spreading tasks over several weeks prevents a last-minute scramble. Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean, echoes this, noting that a clean home sets the stage for festive gatherings.
Start with the Pantry and Fridge
Mock recommends purging food cabinets three weeks before the holiday. This isn’t just about tossing expired items; it’s also a chance to retrieve and clean special holiday dishes that have been in storage. “Get out any special holiday dishes and give them a good cleaning, especially if they’ve been stored away,” she says.
Similarly, a fridge deep-clean is non-negotiable. Sokolowski points out that an organized fridge ensures you have space for festive dishes while keeping food safe. The process is straightforward: remove everything, discard expired items, wipe surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner, and let stubborn stains soak for five minutes before wiping. Once dry, restock neatly.
Oven and Guest Bathroom: Don’t Skip
Mock advises an oven clean about two weeks before Christmas. This task, often overlooked, prevents burnt smells or chemical odors from lingering during the holiday meal. Pull out oven racks and scrub them in the sink, and don’t forget the stovetop and oven door.
For the guest bathroom, a thorough cleaning is essential. Focus on sinks, toilets, showers, cabinet fronts, and floors. Sokolowski suggests adding a scented sachet or holiday candle for a welcoming touch, and restocking toiletries to avoid running out of essentials.
Guest Bedroom and Living Room Prep
If overnight guests are expected, dedicate a few hours to the guest bedroom. Wash bedding, replace with clean linens, and remove any non-essential items like sports equipment or office supplies. Sokolowski adds, “Don’t forget to vacuum under the bed as well.”
The living room, often the hub of celebrations, needs attention too. Dust all surfaces, clean windows, vacuum and fluff the sofa, and have gift wrap storage solutions ready. For carpets, Sokolowski suggests shampooing or professional cleaning if needed.
Final Touches on Countertops
Right before the holiday, Mock recommends clearing clutter from kitchen counters and other surfaces. However, she cautions against tackling large decluttering projects like the garage—save that for the New Year. Focus on spaces where guests will actually be, not storage areas.
By following these expert tips, hosts can approach the holidays with confidence, knowing their home is clean and welcoming without sacrificing precious time.
