How to Clean an Apartment: A Step-by-Step Room Checklist

A good cleaning order saves an hour and stops dirt spreading onto clean surfaces. Here is the routine professionals use.

Golden rules

• Work from top to bottom: dust on shelves first, then tables, floors last.
• Start in the farthest room and finish at the door.
• Dry cleaning first (dust, vacuum), wet cleaning after.
• Give the product 5–10 minutes to work on grease and limescale.

Bedroom and living room

Clear surfaces, wipe lamps, shelves, nightstands and sills, make the bed, vacuum upholstery and textiles. Vacuum and wash the floor last, including baseboards.

Kitchen

Soak the dishes, wipe cabinet fronts, handles and switches, clean the stove and backsplash, then the sink. The floor is the final step.

Bathroom

Apply product to the sink, bath and toilet and leave for a few minutes, wipe mirrors and glass, then rinse and wash the floor.

Hallway

Mirrors, door handles, shoe rack, floor. Don't forget the entrance mat.