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Want an easy, natural, and inexpensive way to clean your floors? These homemade recipes work wonders on wood, laminate, and tile. You can also pair them with smart cleaning tools like Dreame wet‑dry vacuums to save time and effort. Why Make Your Own Floor Cleaner? Store-bought floor cleaners are often packed with harsh chemicals, mysterious ingredients, and synthetic odors. Worse, they can be expensive, which is especially frustrating when you have multiple floor types to clean. DIY floor cleaners are a safer, budget-friendly alternative.  With a few simple ingredients, you can mix safe, effective solutions at home. They’re cost-friendly, kid- and pet-safe, and surprisingly powerful. That’s why more people in the U.S. are turning to homemade floor cleaner recipes.  What Is a Good Floor Cleaning Solution, Really? A true floor cleaning solution is crafted to clean without damaging the surface. Unlike all-purpose sprays, these solutions are designed specifically for floors and vary by material type. Some are made for manual mopping, while others are formulated for floor machines like wet-dry vacuums. Please make sure your vacuum is compatible with liquid-based cleaning solutions and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid damage or voiding the warranty. Common DIY ingredients: White vinegar Castile soap Essential oils Rubbing alcohol Baking soda Benefits of Using DIY Cleaners Making your own floor cleaner isn’t just a trendy life hack, it’s a smart, sustainable choice that offers benefits well beyond a sparkling surface. From saving money to protecting your family’s health, here’s why DIY floor cleaning solutions are worth mixing up. Budget-Friendly = Big Savings Many store-bought cleaners cost anywhere from $5 to $15 per bottle. By contrast, DIY cleaners use inexpensive ingredients you probably already have (like vinegar, baking soda, and dish soap). A single $2 bottle of white vinegar can make up to four gallons of cleaning solution. That’s the kind of math your wallet will love. Bonus: You’ll also reduce “cleaning clutter” in your cabinets by consolidating multiple products into just one or two all-purpose solutions. Safe for Kids and Pets Commercial cleaners often contain synthetic fragrances, sulfates, and ammonia. These ingredients can often irritate sensitive skin, eyes, and respiratory systems. This is especially concerning for babies who crawl on floors, toddlers who touch everything, and pets who lick paws. Important Always double-check essential oil safety if you have pets, since some oils like tea tree or eucalyptus may be harmful to cats and dogs in high concentrations. Customizable to Your Preferences Don’t love the sharp smell of vinegar? Add lavender or orange essential oil for a natural fragrance. Want more shine on your wood floors? Mix in a drop of olive oil. DIY cleaners are infinitely customizable, allowing you to control not only the scent but also the strength, ingredients, and purpose. Using the same base, you can make a stronger formula for high-traffic tile areas and a gentler one for delicate hardwood floors Pro-tip Try seasonal blends like cinnamon-orange for winter or mint-lime for summer. Cleaning doesn’t have to smell sterile. Eco-Friendly: Reduce Waste, Chemicals & Footprint When you make your own cleaning products, you're not just helping your floors, you're helping the planet. Most store-bought cleaners come in single-use plastic bottles and contain non-biodegradable chemicals that wash down the drain. DIY Floor Cleaner Recipes by Surface Type  Wood Floor Cleaner  Ingredients: 1 cup warm water ¼ cup white vinegar 1 tablespoon olive oil 5–10 drops essential oil (lemon or tea tree) Step-by-Step: Mix in a spray bottle. Lightly mist sealed wood floors. Mop with a damp microfiber pad to avoid puddling. Style Tip: The How to Clean Hardwood Floors post offers extra care tips, including how wet‑dry vacuums like Dreame H14 help maintain ideal moisture levels so that they prevent wood damage and deliver a streak-free shine. Natural All‑Purpose Floor Cleaner Ingredients: 2 cups warm water 1 tbsp Castile soap 1 tsp baking soda Step-by-Step: Shake ingredients lightly in a spray bottle. Spray and mop across vinyl, concrete, and sealed stone surfaces. Cleanup works with spray mops or as a homemade mopping solution. Laminate Floor Cleaner  Ingredients: 2 cups water ¼ cup rubbing alcohol 5 drops of lemon or eucalyptus oil Step-by-Step: Lightly mist laminate floors. Mop with a microfiber pad to avoid over-wetting. Dry with a soft cloth to prevent warping. Safety Tip: Learn more in Best Laminate Cleaning: Tools & Tips for ideal cleaning methods. Tile Floor Cleaner  Ingredients: 2 cups warm water 2 tbsp white vinegar 1 tsp liquid dish soap Step-by-Step: Mop with the mixture. Rinse with clean water to avoid residue. Important Try seasonal blends like cinnamon-orange for winter or mint-lime for summer. Cleaning doesn’t have to smell sterile. For more in-depth guidance, see How to Clean and Mop Tile Floors. Citrus-Infused Floor Cleaner This natural floor cleaner recipe adds a refreshing citrus boost, which makes it great for spring cleaning and odor control. Best for: All sealed floors Ingredients: Peels from 2–3 oranges or lemons 2 cups white vinegar 2 cups water Optional: 10 drops sweet orange essential oil Instructions: Soak citrus peels in vinegar in a jar for 5–7 days. Strain and dilute with water. Pour into a spray bottle, spray the floor, and mop as usual.  🍋 Eco-Friendly Bonus: Reuse citrus peels that would otherwise go to waste! Eco-Friendly Tips for DIY Floor Cleaning Small changes in your cleaning routine can make a big impact on both your health and the environment. These tips are not only sustainable but also smart, cost-effective, and easy to adopt in any household. Reuse Glass Spray Bottles Instead of buying new plastic bottles for every homemade solution, opt for sturdy glass spray bottles. They're reusable, non-toxic, and don’t leach chemicals into your mix over time like some plastics can. Bonus: they look great on open shelves. Fun Fact: A single reused glass bottle can prevent dozens of plastic bottles from entering landfills each year. Choose Biodegradable Materials Many conventional cleaning supplies, such as disposable mop pads, end up in landfills and take centuries to break down. Instead, go for biodegradable tools made from bamboo, cellulose, or coconut fibers. Look for: Compostable sponge cloths Bamboo mop handles Bioplastic scrubbers Add Citrus Peels for Natural Scent Store-bought cleaners often mask odors with synthetic fragrances that can irritate allergies and skin. Lemon, orange, or grapefruit peels can give your DIY solutions a natural and refreshing boost. They also contain natural oils with antimicrobial properties. How to use them: Soak peels in vinegar for a week to create an all-purpose citrus vinegar cleaner. Drop dried peels in your mop water for instant aroma. Beyond DIY: Are There Better Ways to Clean Floors? Method Best For Effort Level Surface Compatibility Eco Impact DIY Natural Mop Solution Budget-friendly cleaning with natural ingredients High (manual scrubbing, prep, and rinse) Tile, vinyl, laminate, sealed hardwood Low waste; reusable mop and minimal chemicals Wet/Dry Vacuum Powerful daily cleaning with minimal water mess Medium (plug in, empty tank occasionally) Hard floors, tile, laminate, low-pile rugs Moderately efficient; uses electricity and some water Robot Vacuum + Mop Combo Hands-free cleaning and scheduled floor maintenance Low (set it and forget it) Most sealed hard floors; check model guidelines Varies by model; energy-saving options available Expert Insight from Consumer Reports According to Consumer Reports, many conventional cleaning products contain hidden or undisclosed ingredients that may contribute to allergies, asthma, reproductive harm, or poor indoor air quality. Ingredients like ammonia compounds, artificial fragrances, and colorants are flagged as potential irritants or endocrine disruptors. FAQs Q: Will vinegar damage wood floors? A: Only if the wood is unsealed or exposed. Use small amounts on sealed floors. Q: Can I pour DIY solutions into a robot mop? A: Only if recommended by the manufacturer. Dreame robot vacuums like the X50 Ultra typically require plain water or approved solutions. Q: How often should I vacuum and mop? A: Vacuum daily and mop weekly, or more if you have pets or kids. Final Thoughts With simple homemade floor cleaner recipes, you can save money, stay eco-friendly, and keep your home fresh. The best approach? Mist your floors with a safe DIY solution, then let a Dreame smart vacuum do the heavy lifting. It’s the best of both worlds, DIY and tech working together.  

Whether spring cleaning, daily cleaning, or moving home, having the right cleaning supplies makes removing stains, odors, and dust faster and easier. But the huge selection of products and brands makes it hard to know which ones to buy. To help you, we’ve compiled a checklist of cleaning products that will leave every room fresh, tidy, and germ-free. After reading this guide, you’ll know which must-have household cleaning products are missing from your cupboard. You’ll explore the most powerful cleaning products and the eco-friendly options too. And as an added bonus, you’ll get tips on which cleaning products work best for each room, as well as tips for organizing and disposing of your cleaning products. Must-Have Cleaning Products for Every Home To start, make sure you’ve got the basics, as some household cleaning products should be a permanent fixture in every home. All-purpose cleaner Disinfectant spray/wipes Glass cleaner Microfiber cloths Scrub brushes Broom and dustpan Mop (spray or traditional) Vacuum cleaner Sponges and scouring pads Rubber gloves Toilet brush and bowl cleaner Trash bags Paper towels or reusable rags Eco-Friendly and Safe Household Cleaning Products When it comes to stocking must-have household cleaning products, there is no reason why they cannot be eco-friendly. Sustainable cleaning products are better for the environment, safer for children and pets (and adults too), and often just as unforgiving on dirt as synthetic chemical options. Environmentally Friendly Household Cleaning Products To find sustainable cleaning products, look for products labeled “biodegradable,” “cruelty-free,” or “made without phosphates or ammonia.” This way, you’ll ensure they’re not tested on animals and that they protect the planet, the atmosphere, and our wildlife. Some of the eco household cleaning product brands to consider include Seventh Generation and ECOS. Non-Toxic Household Cleaning Products Non-toxic household cleaning products may seem an obvious choice, but they are even more important if your household includes someone who likes to lick or chew surfaces (such as small children or pets). Check the ingredients in cleaning products for particularly strong chemicals, such as bleach or formaldehyde, and choose plant-based formulas where possible. DIY Cleaners Using Household Items Sometimes, an old natural trick or recipe from grandma really does work (and it can save you money, too). Some examples within cleaning include: White vinegar is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. Baking soda can deodorize carpets, fridges, and drains. Lemon juice removes grease and leaves a fresh scent. Castile soap is a gentle cleaning agent. Room-by-Room Cleaning Supply List Each room in a house is subject to a different type of dirt. For example, a kitchen is more prone to grease, a bedroom to dust, and the bathroom to hair and hygiene product stains. Here’s a breakdown, with a cleaning supplies checklist for each room: Kitchen Degreaser spray and/or white vinegar cleaning solutions Dish soap, sponges, and dishwashing gloves Dishwasher tablets and dishwasher salt (if you have a dishwasher) Stainless steel cleaner for pots, pans, and cooking appliances Garbage disposal bags Baking soda for cleaning the fridge and microwave Anti-bacterial spray and cleaning cloths/paper towels Floor mop and floor cleaner A vacuum Bathroom Toilet bowl cleaner and toilet brush Bleach-free shower and bathtub cleaner Disinfectant spray or wipes Mildew remover or hydrogen peroxide spray Glass cleaner (your vinegar solution will work wonders here!) and cleaning cloths Scrubbing brush for tiles and grout Living Areas Upholstery cleaner or spray foam Wax spray or wood polish for wooden furniture Duster and wiping cloths Carpet cleaner and stain remover Robot vacuum for constant automated cleaning For the full list in an easily printable format that you can take to the store, consult the cleaning supplies checklist table further down this article. Cleaning Tools That Make a Real Difference Sometimes, even the right products won’t help us keep a clean and tidy home. Why? Because we don’t have the time. This is where cleaning tools can make a real difference to a working household. Below you’ll find the top household cleaning products to shake up your cleaning routine and slash your cleaning time in half. Robot Vacuums The robot vacuum is a revolutionary cleaning product that will take care of the cleaning itself. And the best part? It’s affordable. Robot vacuums like the Dreame X50 Ultra Robot Vacuum will map your home and respond to a schedule, meaning your house will be cleaned at times that work for you (so there’s no need to trip over your vacuum helper when carrying a much-needed glass of red wine over to your white sofa). Robot vacuums are especially good for pet owners, as consistent cleaning can reduce dander, and thus allergic reactions. [product handle="x50-ultra-robot-vacuum" rating="4.7"] Wet and Dry Vacuums Using a traditional vacuum on a moist surface can result in the harboring of bacteria within the vacuum and even cause damage to the internal components; however, a wet and dry vacuum, such as the Dreame H15 Pro Heat Wet and Dry Vacuum, can tackle all surface types safely and efficiently. Using a wet and dry vacuum means better cleaning flexibility, since you can equally vacuum living areas and bathrooms, but it can also mean a longer usage period since it is less prone to breakage. [product handle="h15-pro-heat-wet-dry-vacuum" rating="4.7"] Cordless Vacuums Cordless vacuums offer a neat and compact vacuum experience for easy cleaning around the home; however, it’s important to check that your cordless vacuum of choice has a good battery life before you purchase it. The Dreame Z30 Cordless Stick Vacuum’s compact design and sturdy battery make it a great option for daily touch-ups and for reaching those high-up places that are out of reach for a traditional vacuum. [product handle="z30-cordless-stick-vacuum" rating="4.6"] Technology in cleaning is constantly evolving and offering new gadgets to simplify and speed up this sometimes-mundane task. If you’re interested in learning how to choose the right automatic cleaning tools, we’ve got a guide for that too. Cleaning Supplies Checklist To help simplify your shopping trip for cleaning products, we’ve compiled a household cleaning supplies checklist that is easily readable and printable. You could also stick it on the back of the cupboard door to encourage the other members of your household to do their bit! Item Use Area Eco Option Available All-Purpose Cleaner All rooms Yes Glass Cleaner Kitchen, Bath Yes Disinfectant Spray/Wipes High-touch areas Yes Baking Soda Kitchen, Bath Yes (DIY) White Vinegar Kitchen, All rooms Yes (DIY) Lemon Juice Kitchen, Bath Yes (DIY) Robot Vacuum Cleaner All rooms Energy-efficient Mop/Wet & Dry Vacuum Hard floors Yes Cordless Stick Vacuum All rooms Rechargeable Microfiber Cloths All rooms Yes Scrub Brushes Bath, Kitchen Yes Trash Bags All rooms Compostable options Toilet Bowl Cleaner Bathroom Yes Dish Soap Kitchen Yes Carpet/Upholstery Cleaner Living Areas Yes Cleaning Supplies Organization and Disposal Tips How to Organize Your Cleaning Closet Use separate boxes or clean bags to separate your cleaning products by room Label everything Store sprays the right way up and away from heat and moisture Where to Buy Household Cleaning Products Affordably Bulk buying is usually cheaper, so head to warehouse stores like Costco or Sam’s Club Buy your basics, such as gloves and scrubbers, at dollar stores Eco-conscious stores like Grove Collaborative often offer competitive pricing How to Dispose of Household Cleaning Products Safely Chemicals should NEVER be disposed of down drains or put in the trash Take chemical products to hazardous waste disposal sites Finish the product before recycling the container For additional guidance on how to safely dispose of chemical cleaning products, consult the EPA’s guide to disposing of cleaners. Where to Donate Unused Cleaning Products Community centers and local shelters often accept unopened cleaning products Ask at the local schools, churches, activity centers, and mutual aid groups Bonus: What NOT to Mix When Cleaning You may think that cleaning products are harmless, but remember that a lot of them are chemicals, and mixing them can cause strong (often unwanted) chemical reactions. Stay on the safe side and refrain from mixing the following ingredients: Bleach and ammonia can cause toxic chloramine gas Bleach and vinegar can cause chlorine gas Hydrogen peroxide and vinegar can cause peracetic acid, which can burn your skin Baking soda and vinegar placed together in a sealed container can cause a pressure buildup that can eventually blow up Stay safe by always reading product labels and don’t mix anything unless the instructions specifically ask you to. After reading this, you may wonder, “Are household cleaning products dangerous?” The truth is that they can be misused. So, handle them with care and don’t give chemical-based cleaning products to children. Conclusion Keeping a tidy home can seem like an impossible task, but when armed with a reliable cleaning supplies checklist of top household cleaning products, it gets a lot easier. In addition, today’s market means you can choose the cleaning products that align with your values (such as eco-friendly options) or the cleaning tools that will do the work for you (such as robot vacuum cleaners), meaning more clean surfaces with less stress. Now that you’re armed with the right cleaning products for you, you’re ready to go pro. Read our blog to learn cleaning strategies, including how to clean your room efficiently, and how to take care of specialty surfaces, such as how to care for hardwood floors.

Mold is one of those sneaky problems that can go unnoticed at first, but it can quickly become serious if left untreated. Maybe it’s the musty odor in your laundry room or a suspicious smudge on the ceiling after a week of heavy humidity. Whatever the case, mold isn’t something to overlook. This guide will walk you through how to clean mold in your house safely, completely, and with the help of the best tools and techniques to prevent future growth. Whether you’re tackling mold on drywall, behind the fridge, or along tile grout lines, these five steps will help you restore your home to a fresher, healthier state. Signs of Mold in the House Before you can clean mold, you need to identify where it’s hiding. Mold typically forms in warm, damp, and low-light environments. These conditions are common in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry areas, basements, and around poorly insulated windows. Here are some warning signs: Black, green, gray, or white patches on walls or ceilings Persistent musty smells, even after cleaning Peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper Sudden allergy symptoms or breathing issues that ease when you leave the room Pro-tip Mold often hides in places you don’t see. Behind drywall, under flooring, or inside HVAC vents are common locations. If there’s a strong odor but no visible signs, a mold detection kit or a professional inspection may be necessary. To get ahead of mold-prone messes, check out our guide on How to Clean Your Room Like a Pro in Just 1 Hour. It includes quick strategies to keep high-risk areas clean and dry. Health Risks Associated with Mold Mold is more than an eyesore. It can be a serious health hazard. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mold exposure can cause a wide range of symptoms. People with allergies, asthma, or compromised immune systems are especially sensitive. Common reactions to mold include: Nasal congestion and sneezing Chronic coughing or wheezing Eye irritation or skin rashes Fatigue and headaches In some cases, long-term exposure to mold spores can cause more severe respiratory problems. That’s why using proper protective gear and following safe removal techniques is essential. Preparing for Mold Removal Cleaning mold safely requires planning. Mold spores can travel through the air during cleaning, so the goal is to contain them and reduce health risks. What to Wear A tight-fitting N95 or KN95 mask to avoid inhaling spores Non-porous gloves to protect your skin Goggles or safety glasses to prevent eye irritation Long sleeves, pants, and clothing you can wash immediately after use Pro-tip Place a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter in the room before and after cleaning. This helps trap airborne spores that may escape during the scrubbing process. Cleaning Products for Mold Removal Not every mold cleanup requires harsh chemicals. You can often use household staples to treat small patches of mold, especially if you catch it early. Natural Mold Cleaners White Vinegar: Spray undiluted and leave  for at least an hour before wiping. Hydrogen Peroxide (3%): Ideal for porous surfaces like drywall. Apply and leave it for 10 minutes, then scrub and wipe. Baking Soda Paste: Combine baking soda with water to form a paste. Use this on grout and tight corners where mold lingers. Important Never mix vinegar with bleach or ammonia. This creates a chemical reaction that produces toxic fumes. Chemical Cleaners For larger infestations or tougher surfaces: EPA-registered mold removers Diluted bleach (1 cup bleach per gallon of water) for non-porous materials like tile and sealed concrete Isopropyl alcohol (70%) for electronics, tools, and smaller objects Dreame Take A Dreame wet-dry vacuum is ideal for this process. It can remove moisture and debris in one go while sterilizing the brush head for sanitary reuse. Step-by-Step Mold Cleaning Process Step 1: Contain the Area Open windows to allow airflow but close interior doors to prevent spores from spreading Seal off vents, doors, and nearby furniture with plastic sheeting if cleaning a larger mold patch Step 2: Apply Your Cleaner Spray your chosen mold-killing solution onto the affected area  Let it soak for 10 to 60 minutes, depending on severity Step 3: Scrub Gently but Thoroughly Use a stiff-bristled brush or a sponge to scrub surfaces  A toothbrush works great for grout lines.  Scrub lightly on drywall to avoid damage Step 4: Rinse and Wipe Use clean water and a fresh microfiber cloth to remove the cleaner and any remaining mold  Rinse all cleaning tools thoroughly after use. Step 5: Dry the Area Completely Use a fan, dehumidifier, or a wet-dry vacuum to dry the surface. Ensure the area is fully dry to prevent mold from returning Pro Tip: The Dreame H14 Pro not only cleans and dries but also sterilizes itself on its docking base, preventing mold from building up inside the machine. Want to learn how vacuuming helps protect the health of our loved ones at home? See our blog: How to Clean Carpet with Vacuum Cleaner. Can You Clean Black Mold with a HEPA Vacuum Cleaner? The answer is yes, but only if your vacuum includes a certified HEPA filter. Black mold is especially dangerous because it releases more potent spores. A HEPA vacuum traps these tiny particles, keeping them out of your air. Best Uses for HEPA Vacuums During Mold Removal After wiping or scrubbing, use a HEPA vacuum to clean nearby carpets or upholstery Vacuum curtains, rugs, and other soft materials near the affected zone Use it periodically in mold-prone rooms to reduce the buildup of spores Pro-tip Use a HEPA air purifier alongside your vacuum to double your defense. This is especially helpful in bathrooms, basements, or closets with limited airflow. How to Clean Mold Spores in House Mold spores can float through your air and settle in other rooms. Cleaning visible mold is only half the job. Here’s how to get rid of residual spores: Vacuum nearby upholstery, carpet, and drapes with a HEPA-filtered machine Wipe all surrounding surfaces (floors, trim, walls) with soap and water Use air purifiers to clean the air while scrubbing and afterward Replace HVAC filters and have ducts cleaned if you suspect internal spread Dreame Take Smart vacuums like the Dreame Z20 feature HEPA filtration and automatic dustbin emptying. This makes daily maintenance and spore removal nearly effortless. For step-by-step tips on keeping your vacuum effective in mold-prone areas, check out How to Clean Vacuum HEPA Filters. Post-Cleaning Measures and Prevention Reinspect the Area Look for discoloration, smells, or soft spots within 48 hours. Mold can regrow quickly in humid spaces if moisture wasn’t fully removed. Tips to Prevent Future Mold Growth Use dehumidifiers and fans in bathrooms and basements Fix leaks, drips, or condensation problems as soon as they arise Keep windows clean and open them for ventilation when weather permits Vacuum floors regularly with a HEPA-equipped robot vacuum to reduce debris and moisture buildup Store clothing, paper, and electronics in dry, cool areas Pro-tip Use Dreame wet-dry or robot vacuums weekly in kitchens, laundry areas, and bathrooms to maintain cleanliness and control humidity through targeted zone cleaning. Final Thoughts Mold cleanup doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right tools, protective gear, and proactive steps, you can keep your home clean, dry, and mold-free. Don’t wait for mold to spread. Act quickly, use HEPA technology where needed, and stay consistent with maintenance. Let Dreame help make your cleanup process safer and more effective, so your home stays fresh, healthy, and truly yours.

Going on vacation should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment. But the thought of returning to a messy house can cast a shadow over your holiday bliss. That's where pre-vacation cleaning comes in. A clean house before vacation not only ensures a welcoming return but also contributes to home security while you're away. But what about during your vacation, especially if you're enjoying a staycation? And how do you tackle the post-vacation cleanup efficiently? This guide will provide you with essential house cleaning tips before, during, and after your vacation, helping you maintain a clean and organized home no matter your holiday plans. Pre-Vacation Cleaning Tips Preparing your home before vacation is crucial for peace of mind. It ensures you return to a comfortable space. Begin by creating a comprehensive checklist. This helps ensure no crucial tasks are overlooked. Start with high-traffic areas. Focus on the kitchen and bathroom, as these spaces accumulate the most grime. Addressing these can prevent unwelcome odors and messes. Don't forget to do your laundry before departure. Fresh clothes and linens await, minimizing stress upon return. Completing these tasks promotes a smooth post-vacation transition. Make sure to dispose of expired food items and take out the trash. This prevents pests and unpleasant smells from greeting you. Secure your home by locking doors and windows, and set light timers for added security. Here's a quick list of priority areas to clean before leaving: Kitchen appliances and counters Bathrooms Laundry and linens Trash and refrigerator General tidy-up Declutter Your Space Decluttering is the first step in pre-vacation cleaning. A tidy home reduces stress, offering a serene space to return to. Start with visible surfaces and work your way to hidden areas. Sort items into keep, donate, and discard piles. This minimizes clutter and makes your home more organized. A clutter-free environment enhances the overall feel and security of your home. Deep Clean Tricky Areas Deep cleaning is an integral part of pre-vacation preparation. Target areas that need extra attention but are often neglected. Focus on kitchen appliances and bathroom tiles, as grime tends to accumulate there. Remember to dust surfaces and clean floors thoroughly. This reduces dust build-up and creates a more inviting space. Vacuum carpets and floors Clean kitchen appliances inside out Scrub bathroom fixtures and tiles For deeper cleans before (or even after) your trip, wet and dry vacuums, like the Dreame H15 Pro or H14, are a huge help. They can easily tackle liquid spills, mud, and fine dust on hard floors and carpets. They’re great for homes with kids, pets, or unpredictable messes. Many models now feature self-cleaning brush rolls and drying functions to keep things hygienic with minimal effort. Secure Your Home Security is paramount when you're on vacation. A clean exterior conveys that the home is well-maintained, deterring potential burglars. Here are the tips to follow: Ensure all doors and windows are locked tightly. Consider setting light timers to mimic your typical patterns of activity. This makes it seem like someone is home, enhancing security. Communicate with a neighbor about your absence. They can help watch over your home or collect mail if needed. Every precaution taken contributes to peace of mind. Pro-tip: If you use a robotic vacuum, like the Dreame X50 Ultra or X40, you can schedule a full floor clean the morning of your departure. These vacuums come equipped with powerful suction and mop functions to leave your floors spotless, even while you finish packing. How to Maintain a Clean House During Your Vacation While enjoying your getaway, you can still ensure cleanliness at home. Utilize tools and planning to maintain order. Smart devices can play a key role here. Use Automation and Smart Devices Smart home tech is your best ally while you’re away. Here are the devices that help monitor and maintain your space remotely: Robotic vacuums will help keep your space tidy. For instance, the Dreame X40 Ultra Complete offers hands-free floor cleaning with automatic dust emptying, mop cleaning, and recharging, so your home stays clean without lifting a finger. Schedule cleanings via the app to maintain dust-free floors while you're away. Smart air purifiers will help trap dust, pet dander, and odors with a smart purifier. Set cleaning schedules or activate air quality sensors remotely to maintain fresh, allergen-free air while you’re away. A smart thermostat lets you adjust temperature and humidity from anywhere: great for keeping pets, plants, or wood furniture comfy while saving energy. Arrange Proper Pet Care  If your pets are staying home, prep their care in advance. A pet sitter is ideal, they can feed, play, and clean up after your furry friends. But if you're going DIY: Set up an automatic feeder with portion control Use a self-cleaning litter box or indoor potty system Schedule your robot vacuum to handle fur and litter scatter Consider a pet camera with speaker/mic to check in and say hello (but some robot vacuums have this feature too) Pro-tip: Worried about robot vacuums and pets? Don’t be! Dreame vacuums are designed to navigate around animals and even avoid messes. Want to know more? Check out our guide on how to use robot vacuums in pet-friendly homes. Don’t Forget Your Plants  For houseplants, use self-watering systems or request a friend to care for them. This prevents wilting and maintains the freshness of your home's air.  Post-Vacation Cleaning Tips Returning home from vacation often means facing a messy house (especially if you didn't follow the tips above). A structured plan can swiftly restore order. Focus on key areas first to minimize stress and increase efficiency. Prioritize Start with a broad overview of your space. Make a priority list to tackle the most critical tasks. This organized approach ensures nothing gets overlooked. Here's a suggested order to maintain a clean return: Unpack luggage and sort items Begin laundry immediately Wipe down counters and kitchen surfaces Vacuum or sweep high-traffic areas Dreame Take: The Dreame X50 Ultra makes post-vacation cleaning easier. Its long battery life and strong brush design help collect dust and debris left behind while you were away. Tackle the Laundry One of the most daunting tasks is post-vacation laundry. Begin sorting dirty clothes as soon as you unpack. By quickly starting a load, you'll prevent a laundry pileup. Separate items into categories to maximize efficiency. Consider washing essentials like towels and bedsheets first, as these items often require immediate use after your return. Refresh Your Living Space A fresh environment is key to settling back in comfortably. Open windows to circulate air and reduce stale odors. This simple action invigorates your home with a refreshing breeze. Final Cleaning Checklist for Before, During, and After Vacation A checklist is essential for staying organized. It ensures you don't overlook important tasks before leaving. Consider it your go-to guide for a seamless clean-up experience. To maximize its effectiveness, tailor the checklist to fit your needs. Focus on priorities unique to your home and vacation plans. Regularly updating the list helps in managing unexpected events. Here's a basic checklist to get you started: Before Vacation: Declutter living spaces Deep clean kitchen and bathrooms Empty trash and clean refrigerator Schedule your robot vacuum to clean while away During Vacation: Use smart devices for monitoring Arrange for pet and plant care Check robot vacuum notifications for completed cleanings After Vacation: Tackle laundry promptly Refresh and air out rooms Vacuum high-traffic areas Embracing the Clean Home Mindset Developing a clean home mindset transforms your living environment. It starts with commitment and consistent practice. By focusing on efficiency, cleanliness becomes second nature. Smart cleaning tools like Dreame’s robot vacuums can give you time back before, during, and after your vacation, so you can focus on relaxing, not scrubbing.

A clean space improves sleep, focus, and mood. Smart vacuums help you stay on top of cleaning without stress or time pressure.

Are you vacuuming enough? Find out the secret to a cleaner home and better air quality with our must-know vacuuming frequency tips!