What is the Correct Order to Clean a House?

Maintaining a clean and organised living space is essential for a healthy and comfortable lifestyle, but where do you begin? It seems so overwhelming when you know you have a whole house to clean, and time seems never enough.

Well, if you,

• Want to clean your house efficiently and not waste more time than you absolutely have to;
• Have trouble prioritising and want to know if there’s an optimal way to clean the house;
• Wonder what you should clean first

Then, read along. In this blog post, you will learn in what order to clean your house and why that matters. All professional cleaners in Australia follow this sequence of tasks, so why wouldn’t you?

Importance of cleaning with a checklist

Cleaning a house can be a time-consuming and often daunting task, but it becomes significantly more manageable and efficient when you follow a proper order. That’s why any professional cleaner will tell you that the best way to clean the house is by following a checklist. The benefits are well worth it.

1. You save time by avoiding redundant tasks – By following a predetermined order, you can work through your home methodically, addressing each task only once and not waste time revisiting areas that you’ve already cleaned. This reduces the need to backtrack, which ultimately saves you valuable time and energy.
2. You clean all areas and prevent missed spots – A well-structured cleaning checklist ensures that you don’t overlook any nooks or crannies in your home. It prompts you to tackle each room, surface, or item in a logical sequence, leaving no space untouched. This thorough approach prevents the frustration of discovering missed spots after you’ve already completed the cleaning process.
3. You maximise productivity and minimise distractions – You can move from one area to the next without getting sidetracked by other chores or distractions.

You can use these tips for regular cleaning, but also as an end of lease cleaning checklist, should you need to relocate.

The correct order to clean a house

Let’s break down the correct order of how to clean your house. Yes, there is such a thing and it’s very important.

Start from top to bottom

Starting your cleaning routine from the top and working your way down is a fundamental principle of efficient house cleaning. Begin by dusting high surfaces such as ceiling fans, light fixtures, shelves, and any other elevated areas. Any dislodged dust or debris will fall onto lower surfaces that will be cleaned later on, preventing the need to re-clean areas that have already been addressed.

Clean surfaces before floors

Cleaning surfaces before tackling the floors is another key element of the correct cleaning order and also an extension of the previous method. Prioritise wiping down countertops, tables, appliances, and other surfaces in your home before moving on to vacuuming or mopping. By following this sequence, you’ll reduce the chances of dirt or crumbs falling onto freshly cleaned surfaces.

Room-by-room approach

Dividing your home into separate rooms or areas and focusing on one at a time is the practical and organised way of how to clean your house. To the question many people ask, “What should I clean first in a dirty house?” the answer is the kitchen countertops. Always start with the kitchen.

Kitchen cleaning process

When it comes to the proper way of how to clean a kitchen, there’s much to know. For the time being, start simple.

1. Clear cluttered countertops – Start by removing any items from your countertops to give you a clean and clear working space;
2. Wipe down appliances – Wipe down the microwave, fridge, and any other kitchen gadgets or equipment;
3. Clean the sink area – Scrub and disinfect the sink area, including the faucet and surrounding surfaces;
4. Scrub stovetop and oven (if needed) – If your stove or oven requires cleaning, now is the time to tackle it. Use appropriate cleaning products and techniques;
5. Sweep/mop floors – Finish the kitchen cleaning process by sweeping and mopping the floors.

Bathroom cleaning process

The next most important room in the order to clean your house.

1. Remove items from counters/shower/tub – Clear your bathroom surfaces of any items, such as toiletries, before beginning the cleaning process;
2. Spray disinfectant/cleaner on surfaces – Spray disinfectant or bathroom cleaner on surfaces like counters, sink, and toilet;
3. Scrub the shower/tub area thoroughly – Pay special attention to scrubbing the shower or tub area, removing any soap scum, mould, or grime;
4. Clean mirrors/glass surfaces – Use a glass cleaner to clean mirrors and other glass surfaces in the bathroom;
5. Mop floors – Finish the bathroom cleaning by mopping the floors, ensuring they are free from any traces of dirt or cleaning agents.

Living room/bedroom/hallway cleaning process

For living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and similar areas, follow these general cleaning steps:

1. Clean windows/mirrors – Use appropriate glass cleaner to clean windows and mirrors in the area;
2. Dust furniture and surfaces – To properly catch dust, use a microfiber cloth or duster. Some people also wonder whether they should dust or vacuum first. The answer is always to dust first. When you dust, dust particles are often transported throughout the room. A good rule of thumb is to wait at least 2 hours after dusting before using the hoover.
3. Vacuum carpets/rugs – Vacuum carpets and rugs to remove dust, dirt, and pet hair;
4. Sweep/mop hard floors – Many people also wonder do you mop or vacuum first? You should sweep or hoover the floor before mopping to remove grit, hair and other big particles. The work of mopping is made easier by first removing the daily accumulation of dirt. Before sweeping or vacuuming, wipe dry any damp spots; otherwise, you’ll dirty the floor even more by spreading the filth.

Additional cleaning considerations

You will benefit from some additional cleaning considerations on how to clean your house:

Carpets and rugs

Carpets and rugs can accumulate dust, dirt, and allergens over time, impacting indoor air quality and overall cleanliness. To maintain these floor coverings:

Windows and glass surfaces

Windows and glass surfaces play a significant role in maintaining a well-lit and inviting home. To keep them streak-free and crystal clear, choose a glass cleaner specifically designed for windows and glass surfaces. When cleaning windows, use a microfiber cloth or squeegee to avoid streaks. Ensure thorough coverage and wipe away any excess cleaner for pristine results.

Appliances

Household appliances are integral to your daily routines, and keeping them clean not only ensures their functionality but also contributes to a healthy living environment. So, pay attention to the cleanliness of your appliances and regularly clean them inside and outside. Here are a few specific appliance cleaning tips:

Do you have any additional cleaning tips, favourite cleaning products, or personal experiences to share? We’d love to hear from you!