Deep Cleaning Checklist: A Room-by-Room Reset (and When to Hire a Pro in the DMV)
If your home is “clean-ish” but still doesn’t feel fresh, you probably don’t need more motivation, you need a deep clean reset.
A deep clean goes beyond the basics (vacuum, wipe counters, tidy) and targets the spots that quietly collect grime: baseboards, door frames, high-touch switches, buildup around fixtures, and hard-to-reach corners. That’s why deep cleans are ideal before guests arrive, after a busy season, or when you’re moving in or out.
Below is a practical deep cleaning checklist, broken down room by room, plus a quick guide on when it’s smarter to hire a professional team.
What a deep clean includes (quick definition)
A deep clean typically includes everything in a regular cleaning, plus extra detail work like:
Hand-wiping baseboards, door frames, and light switches
Scrubbing kitchen and bathroom surfaces more thoroughly
Cleaning interior windows (where accessible)
Extra focus on high-touch and neglected areas
If you’re doing DIY, this checklist will help you move faster, avoid re-cleaning, and get that “reset” feeling.
Before you start: 10-minute setup
Declutter surfaces (countertops, sinks, nightstands).
Put a trash bag + donation bag nearby.
Work top to bottom (dust falls).
Work dry first, wet last (dust before mopping).
Set a timer: 45 minutes per room, then move on.
Deep cleaning supplies (simple + effective)
Microfiber cloths (at least 6)
All-purpose cleaner (eco-friendly if possible)
Degreaser (kitchen)
Glass cleaner
Scrub brush + old toothbrush (grout/edges)
Vacuum with attachments
Mop + bucket
Gloves
If you have pets or kids, choose pet- and family-safe products and ventilate the room while cleaning.
Whole-home checklist (do these first)
Dust ceiling corners + vents (as reachable)
Wipe light switches, doorknobs, handles
Clean mirrors and glass (as needed)
Hand-wipe baseboards and door frames
Vacuum edges and under furniture where possible
Finish with: mop hard floors / vacuum carpets thoroughly
Kitchen deep cleaning checklist
Surfaces & fixtures
Degrease backsplash and behind appliances (if accessible)
Scrub sink + faucet (including base/handles)
Wipe cabinet fronts (especially near handles)
Appliances
Microwave: steam-clean inside, wipe outside
Stove/cooktop: remove grates, scrub buildup
Fridge exterior: handles + seals
Dishwasher exterior + filter area (quick wipe)
Floors
Vacuum edges, then mop slowly (two passes if needed)
Pro tip: If you’re moving out, add “inside cabinets (in & out)” and a full appliance wipe-down—those are common inspection points.
Bathroom deep cleaning checklist
Spray shower/tub and let sit 5–10 minutes
Scrub grout lines and corners
Clean showerhead and faucet base
Disinfect toilet (bowl, seat, outer base)
Wipe vanity + drawer fronts
Clean mirror and any glass
Mop floor last (especially around toilet base)
High-impact detail: baseboards + door edges—bathrooms show grime fast.
Bedrooms deep cleaning checklist
Change linens; wash pillow covers if needed
Dust headboard, lamps, picture frames
Wipe nightstands (inside top drawer if dusty)
Vacuum under bed edges
Clean mirrors and closet door tracks (quick pass)
If allergies are a concern, consider a professional carpet & upholstery steam clean to help remove embedded dirt and allergens.
Living room + common areas checklist
Dust high shelves and décor (top to bottom)
Wipe remotes, handles, switches
Vacuum couch seams and under cushions
Spot-clean fingerprints on doors and trim
Vacuum edges; finish floors
Entryway + laundry area checklist
Wipe door + handles
Clean scuff marks (gentle)
Vacuum mat and edges
Wipe washer/dryer exterior and lint area
Quick mop
How often should you deep clean?
Most homes benefit from a deep clean:
Seasonally (every 3–4 months), or
Before starting recurring maintenance cleanings, so weekly/bi-weekly visits are easier and more consistent afterward.
DIY vs hiring a professional deep clean (DMV)
DIY is great if:
Your home is small/medium
You have a full uninterrupted block of time
Buildup is light
Hiring pros is worth it if:
You’re moving in/out and need a “market-ready” finish
You’re short on time (work, kids, travel)
You want detail-level consistency (baseboards, frames, high-touch areas)
You want a team that’s trained, trustworthy, and insured
Home Always Clean serves Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia, including areas like Rockville, Bethesda, and Arlington, and offers deep cleaning, move-in/move-out, Airbnb turnover, commercial cleaning, and carpet/upholstery steam cleaning.
FAQ
How long does a deep clean take?
It depends on home size, buildup level, pets, and whether you’re adding details like interior windows, baseboards, and move-in/out tasks.
Do I need to be home during a cleaning?
Not necessarily, many clients provide access instructions so cleaning can happen while they’re out.
What’s the difference between deep cleaning and regular cleaning?
Regular cleaning maintains a baseline. Deep cleaning resets the baseline by addressing overlooked areas like frames, baseboards, high-touch surfaces, and corners.