December 23, 2024
The holidays are a wonderful time filled with family, friends, and festive cheer. But once the celebrations wind down, you might find your home looking a little worse for wear. From leftover party messes to stray bits of tinsel, the post-holiday cleanup can feel overwhelming. With this easy-to-follow checklist, you can tackle the mess and refresh your space naturally. Let’s roll up our sleeves and welcome the new year with a clean, sparkling home! 1. Clear Out Holiday Decorations Begin your cleanup by carefully taking down holiday decorations. Organize and store: Pack ornaments, lights, and other decorations in labeled bins for easy access next year. Use recycled tissue paper or old newspapers to wrap fragile items. Recycle or compost: Dispose of your Christmas tree responsibly by checking local recycling programs or composting it. For natural wreaths and garlands, composting is a great eco-friendly option. 2. Clean High-Traffic Areas Holiday gatherings often leave high-traffic spaces like living rooms, kitchens, and hallways looking a bit worn. Vacuum and mop: Remove crumbs, dirt, and pet hair from floors and carpets using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Follow up with an organic floor cleaner for a streak-free shine. Dust surfaces: Wipe down shelves, baseboards, and tables with a microfiber cloth and an organic dusting spray to remove holiday glitter and dust. 3. Refresh the Kitchen After all the holiday cooking and baking, your kitchen deserves some TLC. Declutter and sanitize: Toss expired leftovers and wipe down shelves in the fridge and pantry with a mixture of water, white vinegar, and a few drops of lemon essential oil. Degrease appliances: Use a paste of baking soda and water to scrub ovens, stovetops, and greasy areas. Rinse with a damp cloth for a fresh finish. 4. Revive Bathrooms and Guest Rooms If you hosted guests over the holidays, give these spaces some extra attention. Launder linens: Wash and store any extra bedding or towels used by guests. Use an eco-friendly detergent for a fresh, chemical-free scent. Scrub and sanitize: Clean sinks, toilets, and shower areas with a natural scrub made from baking soda and liquid castile soap. Add a drop of tea tree oil for an antibacterial boost. 5. Eliminate Leftover Party Odors Holiday scents are lovely, but lingering odors from parties or cooking are not. Freshen the air: Simmer a pot of water with cinnamon sticks, orange peels, and cloves to naturally scent your home. Deodorize carpets and upholstery: Sprinkle baking soda on rugs and furniture, let it sit for 15–20 minutes, then vacuum thoroughly. Diffuse your favorite essential oils. 6. Tidy Up Outdoor Areas If you hosted outdoor gatherings or decorated your yard, don’t forget to clean these spaces too. Collect and recycle: Pick up stray party items like paper cups or decorations and recycle what you can. Sweep and wash: Sweep porches, patios, and walkways, and hose down outdoor furniture for a fresh start. 7. Reward Yourself with a Relaxing Space After all the hard work, treat yourself by creating a cozy, clean spot to relax. Light an organic candle, grab a warm drink, and enjoy the comfort of your refreshed home. With this checklist, you’ll have your home back in tip-top shape in no time. And if the post-holiday mess feels too overwhelming, let us help! In the Dallas-Fort Worth area? Organically Maid cleaning services can help keep your home or office sparkling naturally with organic and non-toxic cleaners and can save you time and energy! Contact us today for a free estimate. Disclaimer: The recommendations and recipes provided on the Organically Maid Blog are intended for informational purposes only. Please use caution and consult with a professional if you have any concerns or allergies. Organically Maid is not liable for any adverse effects or damages that may result from following the recommendations or recipes shared on this blog. Always follow manufacturer's recommendations and proceed at your own risk.