Stay Cozy and Organized with This Holiday Cleaning Checklist

There’s something about winter that makes us slow down and look around our space a little differently. It may be the cozy nights in or the extra layers of stuff that pile up when we’re home more often. Either way, this season is the perfect time to reset your apartment with a good, thorough cleaning. 

Having a holiday cleaning checklist is a great way to make your home feel calm, fresh, and ready for the festive season and beyond. 

1. Start with a holiday reset 

Before the decorating begins, clear the slate. 

• Declutter before you deck the halls. Put away fall items, donate what you no longer use, and create room for gifts or new decor. 
• Dust and wipe down all surfaces. Closed windows trap dust faster — pay attention to shelves, blinds, and baseboards. 
• Vacuum thoroughly, especially under furniture. You’ll thank yourself when guests drop by unexpectedly. 
• Clean windows and mirrors. Sparkling glass makes string lights and candles look even better. 

2. Prepare the kitchen for holiday cooking 

The kitchen is the heart of the holidays, from morning coffee to big dinners. Keep it neat and ready for action. 

• Clean your oven, stovetop, and microwave. Avoid burnt smells and smoke when baking. 
• Wipe down cabinets and handles. Sticky spots from cooking can build up fast. 
• Empty and sanitize the fridge. Make space for leftovers and fresh ingredients. 
• Scrub the sink and garbage disposal. Lemon slices and baking soda can help neutralize odors. 
• Disinfect trash and recycling bins. A simple vinegar rinse keeps bad smells away. 

Extra tip: If you’re hosting, create a “holiday cooking zone.” Clear a section of your counter for baking or meal prep to avoid chaos on busy days. 

3. Make the living room guest-ready 

Your living room sets the tone for the whole apartment during the holidays. 

• Dust shelves, decor, and TV stands. A quick clean before adding holiday decorations keeps everything fresh. 
• Vacuum rugs and upholstery. Wash throw pillow covers and blankets for a fresh scent. 
• Organize cords and remotes. You’ll save time when you’re setting up a movie night or playing holiday music. 
• Polish glass tables. They’ll make your space feel more festive. 
• Keep a small basket or cleaning supplies nearby. They can be useful for quick cleanups when guests are on their way. 

4. Create a calm, cozy bedroom 

Winter is all about comfort, so your bedroom deserves some extra care. 

• Wash bedding and blankets. Fresh, clean linens are perfect for chilly nights. 
• Rotate your mattress and vacuum under the bed. These steps improve both comfort and air quality. 
• Organize drawers and closets. Make space for new clothes or gifts you’ll receive. 
• Wipe down nightstands and lamps. Clean surfaces help you start and end your day peacefully. 
• Add cozy touches: Flannel sheets, soft throws, and warm lighting make the room feel holiday-ready. 

5. Deep clean the bathroom before guests arrive 

Nothing makes guests feel more at home than a fresh, sparkling bathroom. 

• Scrub tiles, grout, and fixtures. A vinegar and baking soda mix works wonders. 
• Clean mirrors and countertops. A little shine goes a long way. 
• Replace towels and wash bath mats. Go for warm colors or subtle holiday tones. 
• Stock up on essentials. Have spare toilet paper, soap, and hand towels ready for visitors. 
• Empty trash and air out the space. A few drops of essential oil can make it smell fresh and inviting. 

6. Focus on the entryway and apartment high-traffic areas 

With guests coming and going, your entryway deserves attention as well. 

• Clean floors and doorways. Winter slush and salt can leave messy marks. 
• Add a mat or boot tray. Keep dirt and water from tracking through the apartment. 
• Hang hooks for coats and scarves. Make it easy for guests to store their things. 
• Wipe down doorknobs and light switches. They’re high-touch spots that can spread germs fast. 
• Declutter shoes and bags. A tidy entry instantly makes your space feel more put-together. 

7. Check air quality and safety before you settle in 

With heaters running and candles burning, safety and air quality matter even more this season. 

• Replace or clean air filters. This helps your heater run efficiently and reduces allergens. 
• Dust vents and radiators. It keeps warm air flowing freely. 
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Always double-check before lighting the fireplace or candles. 
• Wipe humidifiers and air purifiers. Fresh filters mean cleaner, more comfortable air. 
• Open windows briefly. A few minutes of fresh air each day prevents stale indoor air. 

Add a little holiday magic 

After all the cleaning, reward yourself by creating a cozy, festive space. 

• Add soft lighting with candles or string lights. 
• Display a small tree or wreath to bring the holidays home. 
• Play music, light a seasonal candle, and enjoy the comfort of a clean space. 

The holiday season can be busy, but a clean, organized apartment makes everything smoother, from cooking and hosting to simply relaxing on the couch. With this cleaning checklist for the holidays, you’ll not only keep your space tidy but also build a warm, welcoming environment you’ll enjoy spending time in. 

Want to make cleaning easier? Download our free printable holiday cleaning checklist and keep it handy as you prepare your apartment for the holidays.