Renovating your space is an exciting endeavour, as it breathes new life into it. The fresh look and better functionality boost your motivation.
However, renovations also imply lots of dirt and dust, and the upkeep of a newly renovated space is no less than a challenge! So, to clean up post-renovation and maintain a beautiful space for years to come, you must start with these cleaning strategies!
1. Begin with dry cleaning
Even if you used plastic covers and the construction group cleaned up, some chunky dust particles and renovation residue will be left.
Start by dusting out all the surfaces, including walls, ceilings, table tops, furniture, hardware, and lastly, the floor with a soft broom.
After getting rid of the bigger particles, vacuum all surfaces to remove obvious traces of dust and debris from all the mentioned surfaces.
Don’t miss the upholstery, such as sofas, rugs, and curtains, as well. Make sure you use the correct attachment for different surfaces. It’ll ensure you eliminate all the dust stuck in corners and edges.
2. Wipe down all areas
Next, wipe down every surface and object in your home in appropriate ways, as follows.
Walls and ceilings
If your walls and ceiling have recently been plastered, wipe them with a dry microfiber cloth. If you want to soak the cloth, check whether the paint is water-resistant.
Hard surfaces
These include cabinets, windows, windowsills, door frames, kitchen countertops, handles, shelves, mirrors, picture frames, and hard flooring. Wipe them all from up to downward. If necessary, you may also have to polish certain surfaces, such as tiled floors.
Lights, fans, and other fixtures
These also accumulate a fair share of dust. Use a damp cloth to wipe away all dirt. Be gentle if it’s an intricate item to prevent damage. Don’t dust them if you’ve already cleaned the walls and floor.
Electronics
For televisions, computers, routers, and other electronic devices, turn them off, take out the plug from the socket, and wipe them with dryer sheets. Skip any liquid cleaner, even if they claim to be electronic-safe.
3. Use a steam cleaner for deep cleaning
A layer of dust and dirt is the perfect environment for dust mites, allergens, and bacteria to thrive. To get rid of all the germs, invest in a reliable and easy-to-operate steam cleaner that doesn’t require chemicals.
You can clean a range of surfaces using it, including hardwood and tiled floors, sealed marble, laminate, stone, and upholstered surfaces like couches, curtains, rugs, mats, and carpets.
If the renovations took place near or in the bathroom, you can also use it there. You can also steam-clean your space more often to prevent allergic reactions.
4. Clean the ventilation system
The ventilation system is probably full of dust. So, before you turn it on, change the air filters. Otherwise, dust will get into your home through air ducts, and all the cleaning will be done in vain.
Don’t judge the ventilation system based on visual inspection. Even if it appears clean, it’s better to change it ASAP. Otherwise, it might cause allergies and asthma. After all, 20% of Australians suffer from allergies at some point in life.
Further, remove the coverings over air vents. Mix warm water and liquid detergent and dip a cloth in it until damp. Clean the insides with the solution and let them dry completely. Afterward, attach the coverings back to their position.
5. Follow post-clean up protection strategies
After thorough cleaning, protect your newly-renovated place from further dirt and wear and tear with these strategies:
- Keep one doormat outside and one inside the main entry door, and follow a no-shoe policy indoors to minimize the amount of dirt entering your home.
- Put mats and area rugs with non-slip backing in entryways, living rooms, and hallways.
- Attach furniture pads under all furniture to prevent scratches on floors while moving them.
6. Address stains swiftly
Spills and stains are quite natural, even if you’re careful. Address them promptly to prevent damage.
- Blot spills on upholstered surfaces with a microfiber cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this pushes the spill deeper and spreads the stain.
- Use reliable stain removers for clean up, but test it in an inconspicuous corner first.
- Apply protective sealants on floors and stone countertops to prevent staining.
Conclusion
Besides these, tidy up the regularly-used spaces, such as kitchen, dining, living space, bedroom, and floors, daily. Deep-clean all appliances, furniture, doors, and windows monthly. Consistently follow these cleaning strategies, and your home’s beauty and functionality will stay for years!
Images courtesy of unsplash.com and pexels.com
