Vacation-Ready Home: What to Clean Before You Leave (and When You Get Back

Vacations are meant for relaxing, not worrying about what you forgot to clean at home. Whether you’re heading to the beach, the mountains, or a cozy cabin in the woods, taking the time to tidy up before you leave (and knowing what to tackle when you return) makes a big difference.

Here’s your go-to guide for creating a clean, low-stress sendoff—and a fresh, welcoming return.

🧼 Before You Go: The Pre-Vacation Cleaning Checklist

You don’t need to deep clean your entire house before heading out the door, but a few targeted tasks can help prevent smells, pests, or coming home to chaos.

1. Empty the fridge.

Toss anything that will spoil while you’re gone (goodbye, half-used lettuce and old leftovers). Wipe down shelves if you have time.

2. Take out the garbage (and compost and recycling).

You don’t want to return to mystery odors or fruit flies.

3. Do the dishes.

Don’t leave dirty dishes sitting in the sink or dishwasher—run the cycle and empty it before you go.

4. Clear the laundry.

Wash, dry, and put away any lingering loads. Coming home to an empty hamper = vacation success.

5. Make the bed.

It’s such a small thing, but climbing into a made bed after travel is one of life’s underrated joys.

6. Quick tidy-up.

Spend 15–20 minutes clearing clutter from countertops, putting things away, and giving the floors a fast sweep or vacuum.

7. Check the toilets.

Flush and do a quick wipe down to avoid any build-up or musty smells.

8. Lock up and unplug.

Unplug small appliances, check windows and doors, and adjust your thermostat for energy savings.

✨ When You Return: The Post-Vacation Freshen-Up

After travel, your house might feel a little stuffy or stale, especially if it was closed up for a while. Here’s how to ease back into routine without overwhelm.

1. Open the windows.

Let in fresh air as soon as you walk in—especially in summer heat.

2. Sort laundry immediately.

Toss your suitcase contents straight into the hamper or washer. Don’t let it sit and grow musty.

3. Wipe down surfaces.

Even if no one was home, a quick wipe of counters and frequently touched areas helps refresh the space.

4. Do a floor reset.

Vacuum or sweep to catch any dust or dirt tracked in during unpacking.

5. Refill the fridge.

Restock your essentials with a simple grocery run so you’re not scrambling for your next meal.

6. Schedule your next clean.

Vacations are the perfect reminder of how nice it is to come home to clean. If things feel overwhelming, let us help take cleaning off your to-do list.

💡 Bonus Tip: Book a Cleaning Before or After You Travel

Want to come home to a spotless space? Many of our clients love scheduling a pre- or post-vacation clean so they can enjoy that hotel-fresh feeling at home. It’s the perfect way to extend your vacation mood just a little longer.

Headed out soon? We hope your vacation is full of sunshine, rest, and zero chores. And when you’re ready for a refresh—we’re here to help. 🌿