Top tips to deep clean for health and safety

While in the past cleaning might have been more about simply dusting hard-to-reach corners and cleaning out the fridge, this year it's also about deep cleaning and disinfecting for health and safety.

Here are a few tips to deep clean for anyone tackling the task.

Focus on high-use areas first

It may not be realistic to deep clean your whole home in one weekend so consider targeting busy areas of your home first. Bedrooms, bathrooms, family room, kitchen and entry areas likely get the most foot traffic, so start there and leave lesser used areas of the home for later. Gather some helpers and set a timeframe to establish a clear goal and end time. Consider a second round of cleaning if you're unable to complete the task.

Clear out the clutter

Create a system that works for you to clear out the clutter and make space to deep clean. Set up boxes or bags clearly labeled "Trash," "Recycle," "Donate," and "Belongs elsewhere." Go through each target room, putting anything that shouldn't be there in one of the labeled containers.

Be sure to get these boxes or bags where they belong to avoid additional house clutter (we've all been guilty of moving a pile from one room to another!). You'll feel lighter and happier just seeing those boxes and bags head out the door. Consider tasking a family member with trash or donation drop-off.

Prioritise large surface areas

Once you've cleared the excess clutter, wipe down the room from top to bottom. Clean the dust accumulated on top of bookshelves or ceiling fans first, then wipe down walls from top to bottom to remove dust and grime, using a microfiber mop or cloth. Prioritise large surfaces like countertops and tables as well as potential germ hotspots like the kitchen sink. Finish up with the floors by vacuuming carpet or by using a cleaner tailored for your hardwood or hard-surface floors.

Disinfect

At every opportunity look for areas that can be disinfected. Focus on high-use items and areas like remote controls, doorknobs, drawer pulls, and keypads. Consider using products that use hydrogen peroxide, a proven, healthier way to kill germs. Make sure to properly sanitise your home.

Finishing touches

Once you've thoroughly cleaned and refreshed your rooms, brainstorm other ways to improve your living space:

· Donate excess, little-used furniture to create more space

· Identify tasks best left to professionals, like exterior window cleaning or hardwood floor refinishing

· Display brightly coloured artwork to renew your walls

· Set out a vase or two of colourful flower arrangements

Let your deep cleaning bring a little renewal and brightness to your home. A clean home is also a healthy home for family, pets and friends. -BPT