Seasonal Cleaning

The Ultimate January Cleaning Checklist

Tackling Winter Mess & Starting Off the New Year Fresh

January marks a fresh start. It’s the perfect time to hit reset and prepare your home for a new year of possibilities. However, the aftermath of winter celebrations, cold weather, and busy schedules can leave your home feeling anything but refreshed. Muddy footprints, pine needles, dusty heating vents, and general holiday clutter can create a mess that might feel overwhelming to tackle on your own.

Cue the ultimate January cleaning checklist. We’ll break down how to tackle common winter cleaning challenges with ease and discuss how Merry Maids® can help save time and get your home sparkling clean and ready for the year ahead.

Clear Out Holiday Clutter

If your home is still decked out in holiday cheer, the first step is packing it all away. Carefully organize ornaments, lights, and décor in labeled bins for easy access next year. Don’t forget to check hidden spots—like under the couch or behind furniture—for leftover wrapping paper scraps or stray decorations. While dismantling your décor, give your furniture surfaces a good dusting as pine needles and glitter tend to settle in hard-to-reach places.

Tackle Muddy Entryways

Winter brings its own set of messes straight to your doorstep. Snow, rain, and sludge mean muddy shoes and soggy coats. To reclaim your entryway, consider the following:

Shake it out: Remove rugs and shake them outside to release dirt and debris from the fibers. For more intense cleaning, machine-wash mats and spot-clean others according to washing instructions.
Sweep and scrub: Thoroughly sweep and mop floors to get rid of dirt and salt stains that can damage surfaces over time. Use a mix of warm water and mild detergent to lift tough marks without harming tile or wood.
Organize winter gear: Assign a spot for wet boots, coats, and scarves. Boot trays and hooks can deter muddy messes from spreading into other parts of your home.

Refresh Carpets and Upholstery

Winter is tough on carpets and furniture. Whether it’s from muddy paws, spilled holiday drinks, or increased indoor activity, these surfaces often bear the brunt of winter mess. Start by vacuuming regularly, paying attention to high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms. Spot-clean stains with a fabric-safe cleaner—but for more difficult stains, a professional touch might be needed. Merry Maids’ expert cleaning team can breathe new life into your carpets and upholstery, saving you time and stress in the new year.

Dust Heating Vents and Radiators

With heating systems running constantly during winter, dust tends to settle in vents and around radiators. If left unchecked, this can contribute to poor air quality in your home. Be sure to consider the following tips:

Remove vent covers and gently vacuum the inside with an attachment.
Wipe vent covers clean with a damp, soapy cloth.
Use a narrow brush to clean radiator crevices.

This is one task homeowners often overlook, but it makes a world of difference. Not a fan of tackling heating systems? Merry Maids goes above and beyond with attention to detail, handling pesky cleaning spots so you don’t have to.

Deep Clean Your Kitchen

From baking marathons to family feasts, kitchens end up in serious need of a reset by January. A deep-cleaned kitchen not only looks great but also reduces the chance of lingering odors from cooking. Focus on these key areas to help get your kitchen back to its former glory:

Oven and stovetop: Scrub away baked-on grease and food drips with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
Fridge and pantry: Dispose of expired items and wipe shelves clean. Don’t forget to vacuum fridge coils, which can accumulate dust and reduce cooling efficiency.
Sink and countertops: Pay attention to hidden nooks behind sinks and appliances.

Wash Windows and Treat Winter Grime

Although it might be chilly to wash exterior windows, interior ones still require attention. Grab a streak-free glass cleaner and wipe down windows, including sills and tracks, for that spotless touch. Merry Maids’ trained professionals can help you achieve crystal-clear results, leaving you free to enjoy more sunlight and a brighter home.

Don’t Forget Baseboards, Ceilings, and Corners

There’s something about winter that makes dust bunnies multiply in impossible places. Grab a duster and wipe down neglected areas, such as baseboards, ceiling fans, and door frames. This step can instantly make your home feel lighter and cleaner.

Set Yourself Up for Success with Merry Maids

After the deep clean is done, maintaining your home becomes much easier. Consider these quick tips for a cleaner, stress-free year:

Stick to a daily decluttering routine—even five minutes a day can make a big difference.
Set up a weekly schedule for tasks like vacuuming and dusting.
Treat yourself to a recurring cleaning service from Merry Maids so you can focus on the things that truly matter to you.

Cleaning is more than just a chore—it’s about creating a healthy, welcoming space where you can focus on what really matters. Our professionals provide personalized cleaning options, making sure your unique needs are met. The new year is a chance to hit refresh in every area of your life, starting with your home.

Take back your time and make a fresh start this January with the help of Merry Maids—because a clean house isn’t just a goal, it’s the foundation for a brighter year ahead. Contact our team to get started.