Thanksgiving in South Carolina brings not just a day of feasting and gratitude but also the inevitable aftermath of spills, stains, and clutter. As the last guest leaves and the quiet settles in, homeowners might find themselves facing the big clean-up challenge. But fear not! With these comprehensive and engaging post-Thanksgiving cleaning tips from ServiceMaster of the Upstate, transforming your home back to its pre-feast glory can be easier and more efficient than you think.
#1: Start with a Plan
Determine the areas that require immediate attention. Prioritize tasks such as dealing with leftovers, washing dishes, and tackling stains on carpets and upholstery. Ensure you have all the necessary cleaning supplies like detergents, stain removers, and garbage bags within reach.
#2: Kitchen Clean-Up
Start by soaking pots and pans with baked-on food. Use hot, soapy water to cut through grease and make scrubbing easier. Clean countertops, stovetops, and other surfaces. Don’t forget to disinfect areas where raw food was prepared to prevent bacteria from spreading. Store leftovers in airtight containers and rearrange your fridge to accommodate them efficiently.
#3: Dealing with Leftovers
Ensure leftovers are stored in the fridge within two hours of serving to prevent foodborne illnesses. Consider innovative recipes to repurpose your leftovers, reducing waste and providing delightful meals for the following days. Find more advice at FoodSafety.gov.
#4: Living and Dining Area Restoration
Start by clearing away decorations, plates, and glasses. Check for spills and stains on upholstery. Blot spills gently and use appropriate cleaners for different types of upholstery.
#5: Focus on Floors
Address spills on carpets immediately. For tough stains, consider steam cleaning or a professional carpet cleaning service. Sweep and mop hardwood or tile floors, paying special attention to areas where guests were dining or cooking. ServiceMaster of the Upstate provides professional wood floor care and tile and grout cleaning in South Carolina. Contact us for help!
#6: Bathroom Blitz
Bathrooms used by guests should be cleaned thoroughly. Sanitize surfaces, including door handles, faucets, and toilet handles.
#7: Refresh and Air Out
Open windows to air out your home, and consider using room fresheners or scented candles to eliminate food odors. Wash table linens, kitchen towels, and any other fabrics that were used during the festivities.
#8: Next-Day Exterior Check
A quick check of your yard, especially if you hosted outdoor activities, can help in picking up any trash or decorations left outside.
#9 Plan for Next Year
Jot down what worked well and what could be improved for next year’s Thanksgiving. Consider any additional tools or supplies that could make your post-holiday cleanup even more efficient.
Post-Thanksgiving cleaning in South Carolina doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these tips, you can methodically tackle the cleanup, making the process manageable and even satisfying.
Remember, the key to effective post-Thanksgiving cleaning lies in organization, proper planning, and the right tools at hand. By following these steps, you’ll not only restore your home to its usual state but also relish the sense of accomplishment that comes with it. Until next year’s Thanksgiving feast, enjoy your beautifully refreshed home!
Schedule Your Cleaning Service Today
ServiceMaster of the Upstate is a trusted disaster restoration and cleaning company in Greenville, SC. Our cleaning professionals are available at (864) 310-7891 and online. We use state-of-the-art equipment and methods to help you with:
Don’t know what to do next? We do. ServiceMaster of the Upstate also services the following areas: Pickens County, Blacksburg County, Saluda County, York County and Cherokee County, South Carolina and Polk County, Henderson County, Transylvania County, and Rutherford County, North Carolina. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.