PROPERTYSPARK ARTICLE

Everything Property Managers Need To Know About Deep Cleaning A Property

Essential Equipment and Supplies

Equipping yourself or your cleaning team with the right tools is fundamental to an effective deep clean. While specific needs may vary depending on the property, some essential items include:

• Commercial-grade vacuum cleaner with HEPA filtration
• Steam cleaner for carpets, upholstery, and hard surfaces
• Microfiber cloths and mops for efficient dust and dirt removal
• Extendable dusters and scrubbers for hard-to-reach areas
• Appropriate cleaning solutions for various surfaces (all-purpose, glass, wood, stone, etc.)
• Protective gear such as gloves, masks, and safety goggles
• A ladder or step stool for accessing high areas safely

Invest in high-quality, commercial-grade equipment when possible. While the initial cost may be higher, these tools tend to be more durable, efficient, and effective for large-scale cleaning tasks, ultimately saving time and money in the long run.

Tackling Different Areas of the Property

Kitchen Deep Clean

The kitchen often requires the most intensive cleaning effort due to its frequent use and exposure to food particles, grease, and moisture. Begin by emptying all cupboards and drawers and wiping them down inside and out. Pay special attention to handles, knobs, and other high-touch areas.

Clean appliances thoroughly, including often-forgotten areas like the inside of the oven, refrigerator coils, and the space behind and under large appliances. Use a degreaser on range hoods and backsplashes to remove built-up cooking residue.

Don’t neglect the sink area. Clean and sanitize the sink basin, faucet, and drain. Consider using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to freshen drains and remove minor clogs.

For tiled areas, pay close attention to grout lines, which can harbor significant amounts of grime and bacteria. A steam cleaner can be particularly effective for this task, or use a specialized grout cleaner and brush for stubborn stains.

Bathroom Sanitation

Bathrooms require meticulous attention to ensure proper sanitation. Start by addressing any mold or mildew issues, particularly around shower areas, window frames, and other moisture-prone spots. Use a mold-specific cleaner and ensure proper ventilation during and after cleaning.

Descale shower doors, faucets, and showerheads which can accumulate mineral deposits over time. Clean out drains to prevent blockages and eliminate odors.

Pay close attention to often-overlooked areas such as behind the toilet, under the sink, and inside medicine cabinets. Ensure all surfaces are not just clean but also properly disinfected, including light switches, doorknobs, and toilet flush handles.

Living Areas and Bedrooms

In living areas and bedrooms, focus on deep cleaning carpets, upholstery, and window treatments. Move furniture to clean underneath and behind, and don’t forget to clean ceiling fans, light fixtures, and vents.

For carpeted areas, consider professional steam cleaning to remove deep-seated dirt and allergens. This is particularly important for properties that allow pets. For hardwood or tile floors, use appropriate cleaning methods to avoid damage while ensuring a thorough cleaning.

Dust and clean all surfaces, including baseboards, crown molding, and window sills. Pay special attention to electronics like televisions and sound systems, which can accumulate dust and affect performance.

Windows and Walls

Clean windows inside and out, including frames and sills. For multi-story properties, consider hiring professionals with the proper equipment to safely clean exterior windows.

For walls, dust and clean from top to bottom, paying attention to corners and areas behind furniture where dust and cobwebs tend to accumulate. Address any scuff marks or stains on the walls, and consider repainting if necessary to freshen up the space.

Don’t forget about light switch plates, electrical outlets, and heating/cooling vents. These areas can accumulate a surprising amount of dirt and are often overlooked in routine cleaning.

Exterior Considerations

The exterior of the property is just as important as the interior when it comes to deep cleaning. Start by cleaning gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water drainage. Inspect the roof for any debris or potential issues.

Power wash driveways, walkways, and exterior walls to remove dirt, algae, and stains. Pay attention to outdoor living spaces such as patios, decks, or balconies, ensuring they are clean and inviting.

Don’t neglect landscaping during your deep clean. Trim bushes, remove weeds, and ensure lawn areas are well-maintained. A tidy exterior sets the tone for the entire property.

Safety Is Crucial

When undertaking a deep clean, safety should be a top priority for both cleaning staff and future occupants. Ensure all cleaning personnel are properly trained in the use of equipment and chemicals. Provide necessary protective gear such as gloves, masks, and eye protection.

Be particularly cautious when working with ladders or in confined spaces. Ensure proper ventilation when using strong cleaning agents, and never mix different cleaning products, as this can create dangerous chemical reactions.

Implement proper procedures for handling and disposing of cleaning waste, especially when dealing with potentially hazardous materials like old paint or cleaning chemicals.

It’s also important to make sure that all your electricals being used for the deep clean are in proper working order. You can find capacitors and other essentials at McCombs Supply. Get in touch to find out more.

Consider the safety of future occupants as well. Ensure all cleaning products are thoroughly rinsed, and surfaces are safe to touch. If using pest control measures, follow all safety guidelines and inform tenants of any necessary precautions.

Eco-Friendly Approaches to Deep Cleaning

As environmental consciousness grows, many tenants and property owners are placing increased value on eco-friendly practices. Consider implementing green cleaning methods and products where possible. This might include:

• Using biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning solutions
• Opting for microfiber cloths and mops to reduce paper waste
• Choosing energy-efficient cleaning equipment
• Implementing water-saving techniques during the cleaning process
• Properly disposing of or recycling cleaning waste

The Green Seal organization offers certification for cleaning products and services that meet rigorous environmental standards. Consider using their guidelines to inform your choices of cleaning products and methods.

Documentation and Quality Control

After completing the deep clean, conduct a thorough inspection to ensure all areas have been addressed to the required standard. Document the cleaning process with photographs and detailed notes. This documentation can be valuable for demonstrating the property’s condition to incoming tenants, for your own records, and for quality control purposes.

Consider implementing a checklist system for your cleaning staff to ensure consistency across all properties. Regular training sessions can help maintain high standards and introduce new cleaning techniques or products.

Maintaining Cleanliness Between Deep Cleans

While deep cleaning is crucial, maintaining a high level of cleanliness between these intensive sessions is equally important. Implement a regular cleaning schedule that addresses day-to-day needs while preventing the buildup of dirt and grime.

Educate tenants on proper cleaning and maintenance practices. Provide guidelines on regular cleaning expectations and how to report issues that may require professional attention.

Consider offering or requiring professional cleaning services for tenants, especially in multi-unit properties. This can help maintain consistent standards across all units and prevent the need for more intensive cleaning between tenancies.