Differences between standard and deep cleaning checklists

Scope

Standard cleaning focuses on visible surfaces and daily upkeep, such as dusting furniture, vacuuming floors, and wiping counters. Deep cleaning extends to hidden or hard-to-reach areas like behind appliances, inside ovens, and under furniture.

Thoroughness

Standard cleaning maintains surface-level tidiness through quick tasks like mopping floors and sanitizing high-touch spots. Deep cleaning involves intensive scrubbing, such as grout lines, baseboards, and vents, to remove embedded dirt and allergens.

Frequency

Standard cleaning occurs weekly or bi-weekly to keep homes tidy. Deep cleaning happens seasonally, post-renovation, or every few months for restoration.

Deep cleaning includes all standard tasks plus extras for comprehensive sanitation.

Sample checklist for standard home cleaning

Kitchen

• Wipe and disinfect countertops

• Clean sink and faucet

• Exterior of appliances (stove, microwave, fridge)

• Cabinet fronts

• Light switches and handles

• Sweep and mop floor

• Empty trash

Bathrooms

• Disinfect toilet (inside/out)

• Clean sink and vanity

• Wipe mirror

• Shower/tub surfaces

• Fixtures (showerhead, handles)

• Light switches and handles

• Sweep and mop floor

• Empty trash

Bedrooms

• Make beds

• Dust furniture tops

• Wipe lamps and frames

• Windowsills

• Baseboards

• Vacuum floors (under bed if accessible)

• Empty trash​

Living Areas

• Dust shelves and decor

• Vacuum upholstery and floors

• Coffee table and surfaces

• Windowsills

• Baseboards

• Light fixtures

• Empty trash

General Areas

• Dust baseboards throughout

• Wipe doorframes and handles

• Vacuum/mop entry floors

• Spot clean mirrors

• Straighten items

• Empty all trash cans