Deep Clean: Living Room

Step 1: Start with a clean slate. First vacuum and dust all of your furniture, spot clean if necessary. Next, clear it out of the room! Remove everything if possible including furniture, books, electronics, plants, etc… The emptier the better! Next, take down window treatments and throw them in the wash (check labels and be careful about shrinkage) or hang outdoors to air out.

Step 2: Start at the top. Use your vacuum or a damp towel on a broomstick to dust ceiling and walls. If you have blinds dust those too or purchase new ones to replace. New blinds are relatively inexpensive and can make your room sparkle. Next, wash windows and sills. After that, grab a rag and bucket of water with your choice of diluted cleaner and start scrubbing the walls. (This may also be a great time to paint since your walls are clean and everything is moved out!)

Step 3: Flooring. Thoroughly vacuum any area rugs or carpet. Roll up area rugs and place outdoors to air out or in another room.

If you have hardwood, tiles, or other hard surface flooring, cleanse it thoroughly with your choice of cleaner.

For carpet: steam clean. If you do not own a steamer you can rent one at your local hardware store. Some grocery stores have them too!

Make sure your floor is completely dry before moving to step 4.

Step 4: Time to rebuild. Now that you have a sparkling clean room it’s time to rebuild. First, hang your window treatments. Now bring your furniture back in. Study your room and work out a floor plan that suits you. Look online or in books for tips on furniture placement. Leave out furniture that does not fit in well or you do not love.

Next, bring back any accessories you want in your room. If it does not belong in this room leave it out! This is a great time to declutter and evaluate what you want in the room. If necessary, make a pile of things to donate or throw out.

Step 5: Drop off your donation items. Take your items to your local Goodwill or other appropriate place.