Post-Renovation Clean-Up Checklist for Your Home

Post-Renovation Clean-Up Checklist for Your Home

Few things are as satisfying as living in a newly renovated home that looks stylish and feels unique. But home renovations are notorious for being messy and leaving behind a lot of dust. Whether it’s a minor or major project, you can rest assured that everything will be dirty once the process is complete. It’s not only unpleasant but also harmful to pets, small children and those suffering from asthma and allergies. Since prevention is better than cure, consider these tips on how to clean your home post-renovation.

Home Cleaning Tips Post-Renovation

Renovation usually leaves behind a lot of dust, wood particles and garbage, necessitating that your house get a thorough cleaning before you can settle down and appreciate it. For example, your bookshelf may be caked in dust and your hardwood floors may be stained. Here are a few things you can do to ensure a clean and safe home post-renovation.

Some Basic Tips:

• As you clean your furniture and appliances, go from top to bottom so dust accumulates on the floor.
• When removing covers and wraps, do it gently to avoid spreading dust.
• Clean all hardware, including door hinges and handles.
• Wear a dust, flu or allergy mask to reduce exposure to allergens while cleaning.

Clean the Walls

Most renovation work leaves behind a lot of dust and/or dirt on walls. The safest and most effective way to clean them is by dry dusting, especially if you’ve recently painted them. However, if the walls weren’t painted during the renovation, you can simply use a damp towel. You can also use a mild detergent or cleaning agent to avoid any damage to the wall surface. If you have wallpaper, use a vacuum cleaner.

Sweep the Floors

There are many things you may find on the floor after your renovations are complete, such as electric cables, metal sheets and wood particles. These can be dangerous if left unattended. Use a broom, duster and dry rags to remove dust and garbage. Do this as soon as possible, because once the dust is exposed to water, it can stick to the nearest surface and become harder to remove. Use a wide-angle broom with straight bristles for sweeping and a dustpan to pick up dirt and dust.

Vacuum Carpets

Sweeping by itself can’t completely remove dirt and dust; you have to use a vacuum cleaner afterwards as well. Since carpets catch dust, dirt and other airborne particles from the renovation process, strong suction vacuuming is an essential method to get rid of trapped allergens. Just make sure there are no leaks, because any trapped dust or wooden particles will shoot right back into the room. Check the filter for dirt and change if required. Also, have some spare parts on hand in case you need to replace them right away.

Clean Bulbs and Other Light Fixtures

Light bulbs, just like furniture and windows, accumulate dirt and dust during renovations. While it’s not necessary to change them (unless they’re broken or damaged), it’s important to clean them. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the light fixtures and simply pat them dry. You may also use a mild detergent, if required. Before cleaning the fixtures, make sure they’re not connected to any electrical outlets. Taking down the fixtures before dusting will ensure safety and effective cleaning.

Clean Windows and Doors

Doors and windows can easily build up dust and dirt during renovations. Make sure you clean them thoroughly in order to enjoy fresh indoor air post renovation. First, use a clean cloth to wipe away dust. Then gently clean them using a damp cloth. You can also employ disinfecting wipes to clean windowpanes. If you have ventilators, clean them too. Do you live in a high rise? Hiring professional window cleaners is a good option.

Dust, dirt and air pollution can cause significant health hazards, including rhinitis and asthma. Keeping your home clean and dust free is essential to keeping your family and pets safe. Following these cleaning tips can help ensure a safe and healthy living environment after a home renovation.