Biannual Household Cleaning Checklist:

Can you believe we’re already halfway through the year? Time sure flies when you’re having fun—or even when you’re just managing the daily hustle and bustle. Did you use the planner we provided to make your cleaning plans for the year? If not, no worries! It’s never too late to get organized. Whether you’re a cleaning enthusiast or someone who avoids chores like the plague, this biannual cleaning guide is here to help. With these suggestions, you can tackle your biannual cleaning routine this month and transform your home into a sparkling sanctuary. And don’t worry, we’ve added a sprinkle of humor to make the process as enjoyable as possible. Let’s dive in!

Kitchen

1. Deep Clean the Oven: Remove racks, soak them in soapy water, and scrub the interior. Treat it like a special cooking show segment, making sure every nook and cranny shines. When scrubbing the interior, try using Easy Oxy. It’s a degreaser and will make cleaning it a little easier.
2. Clean the Refrigerator Coils: Vacuum the coils behind or beneath the refrigerator to improve efficiency. It’s a small task with big energy-saving benefits.
3. Defrost the Freezer: Empty the freezer, allow the ice to melt, and clean thoroughly. It’s a perfect opportunity to reorganize and discard old items. Using Easy Oxy here is also a great idea, as it’s a deodorizer as well.
4. Clean Kitchen Cabinets: Wipe down the exterior and interior of cabinets, and organize contents. This ensures your kitchen stays tidy and functional.

Living Room

1. Wash Curtains and Blinds: Launder curtains and dust or wash blinds to remove accumulated dust. Fresh window treatments can brighten up the entire room.
2. Clean Upholstery: Vacuum and spot clean sofas, chairs, and other upholstered furniture. Keeping upholstery clean extends its life and maintains a fresh look. Easy Oxy works great as a spot treatment for stains on fabric.
3. Dust and Polish Furniture: Use appropriate cleaners for wood, metal, or glass furniture. Regular dusting and polishing keep your furniture looking its best. MB-5 Stone & More is a great overall cleaner that is safe for wood, metal, and glass. Plus it’s safe for natural stone.
4. Clean Carpets and Rugs: Shampoo carpets and rugs, or hire a professional cleaner. Deep cleaning removes dirt and allergens, promoting a healthier home.
5. Dust Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures: Use a microfiber cloth to remove dust from fans and fixtures. This not only improves air quality but also enhances lighting efficiency.

Bedrooms

1. Rotate and Flip Mattresses: Ensure even wear and extend the life of your mattress. A well-maintained mattress means better sleep quality.
2. Clean Under the Bed: Remove items and vacuum or sweep underneath. This prevents dust buildup and keeps your room fresh.
3. Wash Bedding and Pillows: Launder all bedding, including pillows and mattress covers. Fresh linens contribute to a healthier sleeping environment.
4. Organize Closets: Declutter and reorganize clothing and accessories. A tidy closet simplifies your daily routine and reduces stress.
5. Clean Mirrors and Windows: Use a glass cleaner for streak-free mirrors and windows. Clear glass brightens up the space and makes it look more inviting. You can use MB-5 Stone & More to clean mirrors as well as windows.

Bathrooms

1. Scrub Grout and Tiles: Use a grout cleaner, like MB-2 Alkaline HD, and grout brush to tackle mildew and grime. Clean tiles make your bathroom look pristine and new.
2. Clean Shower Curtains and Liners: Wash fabric curtains and replace plastic liners if needed. This simple task can greatly improve bathroom hygiene.
3. Descale Showerheads and Faucets: Use MB-3 or Easy Scrub to remove mineral buildup. This ensures steady water flow and prolongs the life of your fixtures.
4. Sanitize Toilets and Sinks: Use disinfectant cleaners for thorough sanitation. A clean bathroom is essential for a healthy home. Just be careful around your stone floors. Disinfectants can cause major damage.
5. Wash Bathroom Rugs and Mats: Launder or replace to keep them fresh. Clean rugs enhance comfort and reduce the spread of germs.

Throughout the House

1. Clean Baseboards and Trim: Wipe down all baseboards and trim to remove dust and dirt. This small detail makes a big difference in overall cleanliness.
2. Dust and Clean Air Vents: Remove vent covers and vacuum inside to improve air quality. Clean vents help maintain efficient HVAC performance.
3. Wash Windows and Screens: Clean both inside and outside of windows and remove screens to wash. Crystal-clear windows let in more light and improve your view.
4. Replace Air Filters: Ensure your HVAC system runs efficiently by changing air filters. Regular filter changes improve air quality and system longevity.
5. Check Smoke Detectors: Replace batteries and test all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. This is a critical step for home safety.

Biannual Seasonal Tasks

1. Clean the Garage: Declutter, sweep, and organize garage items. A well-organized garage can be a functional and efficient space.
2. Power Wash Exterior: Clean siding, walkways, and driveways with a power washer. A clean exterior enhances curb appeal and prevents long-term damage. Try adding Hardscape BSC to your cleaning routine, and spray it on after as a preventative to keep your exteriors looking newer longer.
3. Inspect and Clean Gutters: Remove leaves and debris to prevent water damage. Clean gutters protect your home’s foundation and roof.
4. Service HVAC System: Have a professional check your heating and cooling systems. Regular maintenance ensures efficiency and prevents costly repairs.
5. Organize Outdoor Spaces: Tidy up patios, decks, and outdoor furniture. Spray them down with Hardscape BSC to prevent biological growths. A well-maintained outdoor area is perfect for relaxation and entertaining.

Maintaining a clean and organized home not only enhances its appearance but also contributes to a healthier and more enjoyable living environment. By incorporating this biannual cleaning checklist into your routine, you’re investing in the long-term well-being of your home and family. Remember, cleaning doesn’t have to be a daunting task; it can be an opportunity to take pride in your space and create a sanctuary where you can relax and recharge. So, whether you tackle these tasks solo, enlist the help of family members, or even turn cleaning into a fun group activity, the important thing is to get started and stay consistent. With each completed task, you’re one step closer to achieving a home that’s not only clean and organized but also a reflection of the care and attention you put into it. So put on your favorite music, grab your cleaning supplies, and let’s make your home shine brighter than ever before!