The Ultimate Holiday Cleaning Checklist for the Happiest Season of All

Preparing your home for holiday guests can feel overwhelming, but if you break it down by task, you’ll have everything done in two shakes of a reindeer’s tail. Follow this holiday cleaning checklist, check it twice, and enjoy some well-earned celebration time with your loved ones. Don’t forget to consider hiring a professional house cleaner if you need help preparing your home for the holidays.

Living Room

The living room is the go-to space for guests to chat, watch festive movies, and relax. Keeping the space clean and clutter-free creates a serene atmosphere for everyone to unwind and enjoy the seasonal gathering.

• Remove clutter

• Dust and polish all surfaces, including shelves, tables, and electronics.

• Disinfect doorknobs, remotes, light switch plates, and other commonly touched surfaces

• Place drink coasters on the tables

• Clean or spot-treat any stains on upholstery or carpets

• Vacuum and lint-roll furniture and upholstery

• Vacuum or mop the floors, including under furniture

• Fluff and arrange pillows and throw blankets to add a cozy and inviting touch

• Clean and polish glass surfaces like coffee tables and mirrors for a spotless look

• Check and replace any burnt-out light bulbs 

• Add a festive centerpiece or seasonal decor

Entryway

The entryway is the first impression your guests will have of your home, so it's essential to make it clean, neat, and welcoming. Keep functionality in mind by adding spots for guests’ shoes, coats, and other belongings. 

• Sweep and mop the floor to ensure it's clean and free of dirt and debris

• Wipe down surfaces, including tables, mirrors, and light fixtures

• Declutter by removing excess shoes, coats, and other items

• Add a doormat to catch dirt and snow from guests' shoes

• Add a small bench or seating area for guests to comfortably remove their shoes

• Place a shoe rack or mat for guests to store their footwear

• Hang a festive wreath or decoration on the door

• Ensure adequate lighting, replacing any dim or burnt-out bulbs

• Provide a designated area or basket for keys, purses, and other small items

Dining Room

The dining room is the gathering space for the big holiday meal, so you’ll want to give it a thorough cleaning so it sparkles and shines. If you don’t often use the space, prioritize dusting around the surfaces and lighting fixtures to make it look fresh. Remember to inspect the dishware and serving utensils and clean them if necessary.

• Declutter the tabletop, buffet, and any other surfaces

• Dust and clean the lighting fixtures, dining table, chairs, china cabinet, and shelves

• Disinfect doorknobs and light switch plates

• Wash plates, glasses, and serving trays

• Clean and polish your silver flatware, and serving utensils

• Vacuum rugs, carpeting, and upholstery

• Mop the floors

• Iron and set out table linens, such as tablecloths, napkins, and placemats

• Arrange seating and ensure enough chairs are available 

• Polish any glassware or mirrors to make sure they sparkle

• Set up the dining table with place settings to save time and create a welcoming atmosphere for guests

• Add a holiday centerpiece or seasonal decor

Kitchen

A clean and organized kitchen facilitates a fabulous feast and creates a welcoming atmosphere for guests to gather and mingle. This room can take more time and energy to clean, especially if your oven and microwave haven’t been cleaned in a while, so consider getting in touch with a local house cleaner if you need extra help.

• Clear away clutter

• Put away unnecessary countertop appliances 

• Disinfect doorknobs and light switch plates

• Wipe down walls, baseboards, and windowsills

• Clean and disinfect countertops and appliances

• Clean the fridge and toss expired items

• Vacuum upholstery

• Remove and beat dust out of rugs

• Launder oven mitts and potholders

• Add fresh towels

• Put out fresh sponges

• Stock containers for guests to take home leftovers

• Mop the floors

• Empty and clean the trash cans

• Replace trash can liners to ensure the kitchen stays fresh during cooking

• Polish stainless steel appliances for a sleek, spotless appearance

• Clean and organize the pantry to make ingredients easily accessible during meal preparation

• Wipe down cabinet doors and drawer fronts to remove any grease or fingerprints

• Sharpen knives and organize utensils to make meal prep more efficient

• Set up a coffee or beverage station for guests to easily help themselves

Bathrooms

It’s everyone’s least favorite job, but it’s one of the most important on your holiday cleaning checklist. A sparkling-clean bathroom not only looks impressive, but also helps minimize the transfer of germs and viruses. For easy spot cleaning, stash a box of antibacterial wipes and give surfaces a once-over throughout the day.

• Clean and sanitize the sink, walls, countertops, tub, and toilet

• Disinfect doorknobs, light switch plates, faucet handles, and hand soap dispensers

• Put away personal products and clutter

• Scrub the toilet with toilet bowl cleaner

• Wipe down mirrors and windows

• Stock extra toilet paper, facial tissue, hand soap, air freshening spray, and a plunger

• Put out clean hand towels

• Empty the bathroom trash and replace liners.

• Clean the baseboards

• Launder bathroom rugs

• Clean the shower curtain and liner

• Vacuum or dry mop the floor

• Mop the floors

• Check and refill toiletry supplies, such as hand lotion, cotton balls, and Q-tips

• Add a fresh scent, like a diffuser or scented candle, to keep the bathroom smelling pleasant

• Put out air freshener spray or matches for guests 

• Fold and display extra towels in an accessible location 

• Polish any metal fixtures, such as faucets and towel racks

Guest Room

Whether or not you plan on having any, it’s always a good idea to prepare for overnight guests. Give your guest room some attention so it looks fresh, clean, and inviting. For an extra touch of warmth and hospitality, leave out shampoo, body wash, and other personal care items for your guests.

• Clean mirrors and windows

• Wipe down walls and windowsills

• Dust furniture, light fixtures, and other surfaces

• Put on a fresh set of sheets

• Disinfect doorknobs, remotes, light switch plates, and other commonly touched surfaces

• Leave out additional blankets

• Add nightlights

• Clear the closet and dresser drawers

• Lay out fresh towels

• Stock toiletries 

• Clean the baseboards

• Vacuum carpeting or mop the floors

• Test all electronics, such as the TV and alarm clock, to ensure they’re working properly

• Set up a charging station with easily accessible outlets or a multi-port charger for guest convenience

Outside

The outside of the home sets the stage for the holiday gathering. Along with making it look festive and tidy, safety is another important factor. Make sure your walkways are free of obstacles, snow, and ice to minimize the chance of falls and other accidents on the way to the door. 

• Shovel and salt driveways and walkways

• Check outdoor lighting and replace any burnt-out bulbs

• Sweep the porch, walkways, entry paths, and back porch or deck

• Uncover and wipe down outdoor furniture 

• Add outdoor holiday lights and decorations

• Move cars to the street or garage to allow guest parking in the driveway

• Trim overgrown bushes or trees that might obstruct pathways or outdoor decorations

• Clean your gutters to prevent overflow, especially if there’s rain or snow in the forecast

• Secure any loose or wobbly steps or railings to ensure guest safety

• Place a festive doormat at the entrance to give guests a warm welcome

Closets

Closets are often overlooked but can be a lifesaver for keeping clutter to a minimum during holiday gatherings. A well-organized closet ensures that guests have a convenient place to store their coats and belongings for easy access.

• Clear out any unnecessary items to create space for guest coats and bags

• Organize shoes and other belongings to maximize floor space

• Place a basket or tray for small items like gloves, hats, and scarves

• Wipe down shelves

• Vacuum the closet floor

• Consider adding a fresh scent or air freshener to keep the closet smelling pleasant

Basement

The basement can serve as extra space for holiday gatherings, storage, or an area for guests to stay. If you plan on opening the space to your guests, be sure to spruce it up beforehand.

• Declutter the space by organizing or storing away non-essential items

• Sweep, vacuum, and/or mop the floors, especially in high-traffic areas

• Dust and wipe down surfaces, including shelving and furniture

• Check for any signs of dampness or mold, and address them promptly

• Set up a cozy area with seating if the basement will be used as an additional gathering space

• Ensure proper lighting, replacing any burnt-out bulbs