Cleaning Tasks You Should Always Do Before Leaving For Vacation
Leaving for a trip is exciting, but nothing takes the joy out of returning home like walking into a mess. A little effort before you leave can make all the difference. Cleaning up ahead of time isn’t just about comfort either, it can prevent odors, pests, mold, and even unexpected home damage. Here are the key cleaning tasks to prioritize before locking the door behind you.
Empty All Trash Bins
Every garbage bin in your home should be emptied, not just the one in the kitchen. Forgotten waste in bedrooms, bathrooms, or office spaces can start to smell and attract bugs. Even if something seems harmless, it doesn’t take much for bacteria or mold to form while you’re gone. Give bins a quick rinse or wipe before replacing the liners too, just to make sure they’re extra clean.
Clean Out the Refrigerator
Anything that might spoil while you’re away should be removed. This includes produce, dairy, leftovers, and even half-used sauces if you’re leaving for more than a week. Wipe down the shelves to catch any drips or crumbs. Leave a box of baking soda inside to absorb any lingering odors that might build up and you’ll come home to a crystal clean, fresh-smelling fridge.
Run and Empty the Dishwasher
Dirty dishes left behind can quickly grow mold and/or smell. Before you leave, make sure your dishwasher has been run and fully emptied. Even clean dishes left in a sealed machine for days can develop a musty scent. Leave the dishwasher door cracked slightly open to help prevent moisture buildup (which can also lead to funky smells) while you’re away.
Vacuum and Sweep Floors
Dust, crumbs, and pet hair don’t take a vacation. If left alone, they can invite bugs or build up more than expected while you’re gone. Give your floors a quick once-over with a vacuum or broom before you leave, a deeper clean if you have time. Focus on high-traffic areas, under the table, and around entryways. Even a light sweep will help keep the mess at bay until your return home.
Wipe Down Countertops and Sinks
Even a small amount of residue on kitchen or bathroom counters can grow mold or attract bugs while you’re gone. Wipe everything down with an all-purpose cleaner, including around faucets and under soap dispensers. Check for wet sponges or cloths and remove or dry them, since they can sour in your absence. Leave everything dry and clear to avoid any slimy surprises waiting for you at home.
Flush Toilets and Pour Water Down Drains
Stagnant water can smell. Before you leave, flush all the toilets and run water in any drains that haven’t been used recently. If you’re going away for more than a few days, pour a small amount of vinegar or diluted bleach down infrequently used drains to help block any smells. This is especially helpful in guest bathrooms, laundry rooms, or basement sinks.
Check and Clear the Garbage Disposal
Food residue stuck in your disposal can start to smell in just a day or two, let alone if you’re gone for a week. Run the disposal with cold water and a bit of dish soap or citrus peel to freshen it up. Make sure it’s clear of any lingering scraps, too. If you forget this step, you might return to a kitchen that smells worse than any trash bin.
Take Care of Laundry
Don’t leave damp clothes or towels sitting in the hamper. They’ll start to smell quickly and can be a breeding ground for mildew. Aim to wash and dry what you can before leaving. If you don’t have time to fold, that’s fine. The key is not letting anything sit wet or sweaty. This also means you’ll come home to clean clothes and one less task waiting for you.
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These small tasks don’t take long, but they all add up to a cleaner, safer, and more comfortable return home. You don’t have to make your house spotless, just about preventing problems while you’re away. Whether you’re gone for a weekend or a month, giving your home a quick once-over before you go will save time, hassle, and stress when you walk back through the door.
Daniel Mitchell
