Planning a vacation is exciting, but nothing beats coming home to a clean, organized, and well-maintained space after your trip. A little preparation before you leave can make all the difference, ensuring that you return to a fresh and stress-free home.
From essential maintenance tasks to home security and scheduling a cleaning service, here’s your guide to prepping your home for vacation the right way.
And who better to share expert tips than our very own Wendy Clark, owner of Carpe Diem Cleaning? Watch her video for practical advice on preparing your home before heading out.
Set Yourself Up for a Smooth Return
After days (or weeks) away, the last thing you want is to come home to unpleasant odors, stale air, or unnecessary chores. Follow these simple maintenance tips to make your return as smooth as possible.
- Go Through Your Refrigerator: Check expiration dates and remove any perishable items that could spoil while you’re away. No one wants to come home to a fridge full of mystery odors. If you’re leaving for an extended period, consider freezing leftovers or donating food to a neighbor or friend.
- Take Out the Trash and Recycling: Empty all indoor trash cans and recycling bins before you head out the door. This prevents lingering odors, fruit flies, or unexpected messes upon your return.
- Change Your Sheets: There’s nothing like coming home after a long trip and sinking into fresh, clean sheets. Wash and replace your bedding before you leave so you can enjoy a restful night in a cozy, clean bed.
- Change Your Air Filter: A clean air filter keeps your home’s air fresh and helps your HVAC system run efficiently while you’re away. This is especially important if you’ll be gone for an extended time, as it prevents dust buildup and keeps indoor air quality at its best.
Think About Home Security While You’re Gone
Keeping your home safe while you’re away is just as important as preparing for a smooth return. Here are a few security measures to give you peace of mind.
- Use Light Timers or Smart Plugs: A dark, silent home for days on end can signal that no one is home. Set up lamps with timers or smart plugs to turn lights on and off in the evening, making your home appear occupied.
- Hold Your Mail and Newspapers: An overflowing mailbox or newspapers piling up on your doorstep is a clear sign that you’re away. Request a hold on your mail through USPS and pause any newspaper subscriptions while you’re gone.
- Don’t Hide a Key Outside: It may seem convenient, but leaving a key under the doormat, flowerpot, or porch light is an invitation for unwanted visitors. Instead, give a spare key to a trusted friend or neighbor who can check on your home if needed.
Schedule a Professional Cleaning Before Your Return
One of the best ways to ensure you come home to a fresh, welcoming space is to schedule a professional cleaning service a few days before your return. Imagine walking in the door to sparkling floors, dust-free surfaces, and a kitchen that’s ready to be used—without having to lift a finger.
At Carpe Diem Cleaning, we offer deep cleaning, recurring cleaning, and pop-in services to make sure your home is spotless when you arrive. Booking a cleaning before your return means:
- No post-vacation cleaning stress
- A fresh-smelling, tidy home after your travels
- More time to relax and unpack
Book your cleaning today at CarpeDiemCleaning.com so you can seize a clean day when you return.
Carpe Diem Cleaning's Cleaning Services
By prepping your home before your vacation, you’re setting yourself up for a stress-free return. With a little planning and the help of Carpe Diem Cleaning, you can fully enjoy your time away knowing your home will be fresh, clean, and ready for you when you get back.
Keep your home clear year-round with regular cleaning services. We offer weekly and monthly cleanings, deep cleanings, move-in cleaning services, and pop-in cleanings to help you keep your home clean year-round.
Contact us today for a free home cleaning quote. We proudly serve Durham, Raleigh, Cary, Chapel Hill, and the surrounding area.
We’re reliable, responsive, and we do things right.
