How to Clean Everything in Your Home... Like a Pro!

When it comes to keeping your home clean, most people aren’t sure where to start — or what products to use. As a top-rated cleaning company in Bloomington, IN, Hoosier Cleaners has seen it all, and we know that every part of your home requires a slightly different approach to get real, lasting results. Our goal with this guide is to walk you through how to clean everything from your countertops to your couch, so your home stays healthy, fresh, and welcoming.

Let’s start in the heart of the home: the kitchen. For counters, use a mild, all-purpose cleaner that’s safe for food surfaces. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals on granite or quartz — instead, go for a pH-neutral solution or a vinegar-water mix for non-stone surfaces. Wipe in circular motions and don’t forget corners and backsplash grout lines. Our cleaning services include a full kitchen sanitization that leaves every surface gleaming and germ-free.

Stovetops require a bit more elbow grease. For gas ranges, remove the grates and soak them in warm soapy water, then use a degreasing spray for the cooktop. Glass-top stoves need a special glass cleaner or baking soda paste to remove burnt-on residue without scratching. As a professional cleaning company, we always bring non-abrasive tools to avoid damaging delicate finishes.

Move to your refrigerator — one of the most ignored yet most used appliances. Empty the contents, throw out expired items, and use a baking soda and water solution to wipe down all interior surfaces. For outside stainless steel, use a specialty stainless cleaner to avoid streaks and buildup. We include fridge wipe-downs in our deep cleaning services and recommend it every 2–4 weeks.

In the bathroom, it’s all about disinfection. Use a disinfecting bathroom cleaner for tubs, toilets, and sinks. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before scrubbing. For hard water stains, vinegar or lemon juice does wonders. Don’t forget to clean behind and around the toilet base — a spot many DIYers skip but that our cleaning professionals never miss.

Tile grout is notorious for trapping dirt. Use a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide with a stiff brush to lift grime. For larger or older stains, we recommend sealing grout lines after cleaning to prevent future buildup. As a Bloomington cleaning company, we’ve helped countless homeowners restore bathroom tile to like-new condition.

Living rooms may look tidy but collect massive dust. Start by dusting from the top down — ceiling fans, crown molding, window sills, and furniture. Use a microfiber cloth and non-toxic spray to capture dust instead of spreading it. Don’t forget electronics — screens and remotes should be wiped down with alcohol-based wipes.

Your couch needs more attention than a quick vacuum. Use a brush attachment to vacuum debris, then check the tag for the right cleaning solution: water-based, solvent-based, or dry clean only. For most fabric couches, a mild dish soap solution works well. For leather, use a leather-safe cleaner and conditioner. We include upholstery care as part of our premium maid services.

Floor cleaning depends on the type. Hardwood should never be soaked — instead, use a slightly damp microfiber mop with a wood-safe cleaner. Tile and laminate can handle a stronger solution, but avoid bleach, which can discolor grout. Our cleaning team uses commercial-grade products that sanitize without harming finishes.

Let’s talk about bedrooms. Strip all bedding and vacuum mattresses with a HEPA filter vacuum to remove dust mites. Wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets weekly. Wipe down nightstands, headboards, and lamp bases. A dust-free bedroom means better sleep and improved air quality — something our cleaning services are designed to support.

Closets are dust magnets too. Pull out shoes, boxes, and items, then vacuum the floor and shelves. Wipe everything down with a damp cloth, and use cedar blocks or baking soda to control odors. A clean closet helps you stay organized and protects your clothes.

Baseboards are often skipped during routine cleaning. Use a microfiber cloth or sponge with warm soapy water to remove dirt and scuffs. For white baseboards, a magic eraser can lift years of grime in seconds. At Hoosier Cleaners, baseboards are always on our checklist — part of what makes us a detail-obsessed cleaning company.

Windows and mirrors need a streak-free approach. Use a 50/50 vinegar and water solution or a streak-free glass cleaner with a microfiber cloth. For blinds, close them fully and dust with a microfiber duster or vacuum with a brush attachment. For homes with multiple windows, our maid service can save hours of effort with professional tools.

Let’s not forget doorknobs, light switches, and other high-touch surfaces. These should be disinfected weekly with alcohol-based wipes or a disinfecting spray. These are common places for bacteria and viruses to linger and should never be ignored — especially in homes with children or elderly residents.

Trash cans and recycling bins should be cleaned monthly. Spray them with a disinfectant, let it sit, then scrub and rinse. Even with liners, gunk builds up over time. Our deep cleaning services in Bloomington always include sanitizing trash bins during full-home cleanings.

Lastly, air vents and filters play a huge role in your home’s cleanliness. Remove vent covers and vacuum inside with a hose attachment. Replace filters regularly — especially if you have pets or allergies. Clean air is part of a clean home, and we always remind our clients during their regularly scheduled cleanings.