Pre-Cleaning Checklist

Preparing your home before the cleaning company arrives ensures they can work efficiently and focus on deep cleaning rather than organizing. This checklist will help you maximize the value of their visit and achieve the best possible results.

General Preparation (All Rooms)

Declutter and Organize

• Pick up and put away all personal items, toys, books, and magazines
• Clear all surfaces including countertops, tables, dressers, and nightstands
• Remove items from floors that don’t belong there (shoes, bags, clothing)
• Organize scattered papers and mail into designated areas
• Put away electronics, chargers, and cables in their proper places

Secure Valuables and Personal Items

• Store jewelry, cash, important documents, and sentimental items in a secure location
• Put away prescription medications and personal care items
• Remove fragile or irreplaceable decorative items from areas being cleaned
• Clear computer desks of sensitive paperwork or equipment

Kitchen Preparation

Clear and Clean Surfaces

• Empty all countertops completely, storing small appliances if possible
• Clear the kitchen table and dining area of all items
• Remove magnets, papers, and photos from refrigerator exterior
• Put away dishes, utensils, and cooking tools that are out on counters

Appliance Preparation

• Load and run the dishwasher beforehand, or hand-wash dishes and put them away
• Empty the sink completely and remove any soaking items
• Clear the stovetop of pots, pans, and cooking utensils
• Remove items from microwave interior and exterior
• Take everything off the refrigerator shelves if requesting interior cleaning

Bathroom Preparation

Clear All Surfaces

• Remove all toiletries, cosmetics, and personal care items from counters and shower areas
• Clear medicine cabinet contents if requesting interior cleaning
• Put away hair tools, razors, and personal hygiene items
• Remove bath mats, shower curtains, and towels if requesting washing
• Clear toilet tank tops and surrounding areas

Organize Storage Areas

• Tidy under-sink cabinets and remove items if requesting interior cleaning
• Clear shower caddies and corner shelves
• Remove personal items from bathtub ledges and windowsills

Bedroom Preparation

Clothing and Personal Items

• Make beds or strip them completely if requesting fresh linens
• Put away all clothing, shoes, and accessories
• Clear nightstands, dressers, and dresser tops completely
• Remove personal items from under the bed
• Organize closet floors if cleaners will be vacuuming inside

Electronics and Miscellaneous

• Put away phone chargers, tablets, and other electronics
• Clear vanity areas and remove personal care items
• Remove items from windowsills and ledges
• Secure or remove delicate items from surfaces being dusted

Living Areas and Common Spaces

Furniture and Surfaces

• Clear all coffee tables, end tables, and entertainment centers
• Remove items from sofa cushions and check for lost items
• Put away remote controls, gaming controllers, and electronics
• Clear fireplace mantels and built-in shelving units
• Remove items from staircase steps and railings

Entertainment Areas

• Organize media collections and gaming equipment
• Clear TV stands and entertainment centers
• Put away blankets, pillows, and throw items
• Remove items from under furniture if cleaners will be moving pieces

Special Requests and Communication

Prepare Instructions

• Create a list of specific areas requiring extra attention
• Note any surfaces or items that should not be cleaned or moved
• Identify any problem areas like stains, scuffs, or damaged surfaces
• List any cleaning products you prefer they use or avoid

Access and Logistics

• Ensure clear pathways throughout the home
• Secure pets in a safe area or arrange for them to be elsewhere
• Unlock any rooms or areas that need cleaning
• Provide access to cleaning supplies storage if they’ll be using your products
• Clear parking spaces or driveway access for their vehicle

Final Walkthrough

Safety and Accessibility

• Remove any trip hazards from walkways and stairs
• Ensure all areas to be cleaned are well-lit and accessible
• Check that electrical outlets are clear and accessible for vacuum cleaners
• Remove any items that might fall or be damaged during cleaning

Last-Minute Details

• Do a final check of all rooms for missed personal items
• Leave any special instructions or contact information visible
• Confirm arrival time and access arrangements

By completing this checklist before your cleaning company arrives, you’ll ensure they can work efficiently and deliver the thorough, professional cleaning you’re paying for. The time invested in preparation will result in a much more satisfactory cleaning experience and better overall results for your home.