Keeping an apartment clean can feel like a never-ending task, but it can be manageable. Maintaining a tidy living space can become a manageable part of your lifestyle with a structured cleaning routine and the right tools. This guide provides a comprehensive apartment cleaning checklist to help you stay on top of your cleaning duties without spending endless hours scrubbing and dusting.

Having a clear plan can make all the difference whether you live alone or with roommates. From daily tidying tasks to deep cleaning sessions, this guide breaks down what needs to be done and how often. By following this checklist, you’ll ensure every corner of your apartment stays fresh and inviting.

This ultimate guide also includes essential cleaning supplies for different areas of your apartment. Plus, you’ll find useful tips and tricks to make your cleaning process more efficient and effective.

Cleaning Checklist for Apartments

Keeping your apartment clean can be a manageable task. By breaking down your chores into manageable segments, you can easily maintain a clean and comfortable living space. This section outlines a cleaning checklist every two or three days, ensuring your apartment stays fresh and organized.

Cleaning Tasks for Every Two or Three Days

All Rooms

1. Sweep and Mop Floors: Regularly sweeping and mopping the floors in all rooms prevents dust, dirt, and grime from building up. Use a broom to sweep the floors, reaching under furniture and corners. Follow up with a mop and appropriate floor cleaner to remove any lingering dirt and leave your floors sparkling.
2. Tidy Up and Put Away Items: Take a few minutes to tidy up common areas by putting away books, magazines, DVDs, and other items. This simple task helps to reduce clutter and makes your space look organized. Consider using baskets or shelves for easy storage and quick access to these items when needed.

Kitchen

1. Clean Appliances from the Outside: Wipe down the exterior of your kitchen appliances, including the fridge, oven, microwave, dishwasher, and coffee machine. Use a damp cloth and a mild cleaner to remove fingerprints, smudges, and spills. Keeping appliance surfaces clean enhances their appearance and helps maintain their functionality.
2. Clean and Disinfect Sink: The kitchen sink can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria. Clean it every few days by scrubbing it with a sponge and a gentle cleaner. After cleaning, use a disinfectant spray to kill any remaining germs. This practice keeps your sink hygienic and free from unpleasant odors.
3. Clean and Disinfect Countertops: Wipe down your kitchen countertops with a damp cloth and an all-purpose cleaner. Make sure to disinfect the surfaces to eliminate bacteria, especially in areas where food is prepared. Pay attention to corners and edges where crumbs can accumulate.

Bedroom

1. Fold Laundry and Put Away Clothes: Regularly folding and putting away laundry keeps your bedroom neat and prevents clothes from piling up. Please take a few minutes daily to fold clean laundry and store it in drawers or closets. This habit keeps your bedroom clutter-free and makes it easier to find what you need.

Bathroom

1. Clean Hair Out of Drains; Hair can quickly clog bathroom drains, leading to slow water drainage and unpleasant odors. Remove hair from the shower and sink drains every few days. Use a drain cover to catch hair and other debris, making cleaning and maintaining your plumbing easier.
2. Scrub Shower and Bathtub: Keep your shower and bathtub clean every two to three days. Use a non-abrasive cleaner and a scrub brush to remove soap scum, mildew, and grime. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of stubborn stains and keeps your bathroom looking fresh.

Weekly Cleaning

All Rooms

1. Vacuum and Mop All Floors: Start by vacuuming all floors to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Don’t forget to vacuum under furniture where dust tends to accumulate. After vacuuming, mop the floors with a suitable cleaner for your floor type. This combination helps keep your floors clean and hygienic.
2. Wipe Out All Surfaces: Use a microfiber cloth and an all-purpose cleaner to wipe down surfaces in each room. This includes TVs, shelves, tables, lamps, and other furniture. Microfiber cloths are effective at picking up dust and not leaving streaks, making them ideal for cleaning various surfaces.
3. Take Out the Trash: Empty trash bins in every room to prevent unpleasant odors and potential pest problems. Replace with fresh liners to keep the bins clean. Recycle appropriately and dispose of hazardous materials according to local regulations.

Kitchen

1. Clean the refrigerator. Remove all items from your refrigerator and discard expired or spoiled food. Wipe down the shelves and drawers with a mild cleaner. This prevents odors and keeps your food storage area clean and safe.
2. Clean Inside Appliances; Clean the inside of your oven, microwave, coffee maker, and toaster. Use specific cleaners for each appliance to ensure you don’t damage surfaces. Regular cleaning of these appliances keeps them functioning efficiently and extends their lifespan.
3. Clean the dishwasher: Remove any debris from the dishwasher filter. Wipe down the interior and run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner to remove buildup and odors. Keeping your dishwasher clean ensures your dishes come out spotless.
4. Wipe shelves, cabinets, and drawers: Wipe down the exterior and interior of kitchen shelves, cabinets, and drawers. This removes dust, crumbs, and spills that can attract pests and create a messy appearance. Use a gentle cleaner to avoid damaging finishes.

Bedroom

1. Clean Faucets, Shower Head, and Shower Track: If your bedroom has an en-suite bathroom, clean the faucets, shower head, and shower track. Use a bathroom cleaner to remove soap scum and hard water stains. This keeps your fixtures shiny and functioning well.
2. Change the floor mats, Rug, and wastebaskets: Replace the floor mats and rugs with clean ones. Empty and clean wastebaskets to prevent odors and bacteria buildup. Fresh mats and rugs also enhance the appearance of your room.
3. Clean and disinfect the toilet, plunger, and toilet brush: Thoroughly clean the toilet bowl, seat, and exterior. Disinfect the plunger and toilet brush to prevent the spread of germs. Regular cleaning keeps your bathroom sanitary.
4. Wipe Down Cabinets and Vanity Stand: Use a microfiber cloth and cleaner to wipe down cabinets and vanity stands. This removes dust, makeup residue, and spills, keeping your bathroom surfaces clean and tidy.
5. Clean the Mirrors: Use a glass cleaner to wipe down mirrors. Ensure they are streak-free for a clear reflection. Clean mirrors brighten up the space and make it look larger.
6. Mop the Floor: Finally, mop the bathroom floor with an appropriate cleaner. Pay attention to corners and edges where dirt can accumulate. Clean floors, prevent slips and maintain hygiene.

Bathroom

1. Dust All Surfaces in the Bedroom: In the bedroom, dust surfaces such as nightstands, mirrors, dressers, lamps, and decorations. Use a microfiber cloth to capture dust effectively. Dust-free surfaces improve air quality and aesthetics.
2. Change Sheets and Linens: Replace bed sheets and linens with fresh ones. This promotes better sleep hygiene and a more comfortable sleeping environment. Launder the used linens promptly.
3. Clean the Floor: Vacuum and mop the bedroom floor. This removes dust, dirt, and allergens, creating a cleaner and healthier space. Clean floors also enhance the overall look of your bedroom.

Monthly Cleaning

All Rooms

1. Steam Clean Carpets: Use a steam cleaner to clean your carpets deep. This removes embedded dirt, allergens, and stains that regular vacuuming might miss. Move furniture to clean underneath and allow carpets to dry completely before replacing items.
2. Replace Air Filters: Replace the air filters in your HVAC system. Clean filters improve air quality and efficiency, ensuring your system works effectively. Regular replacement also helps reduce allergens and dust in the air.
3. Dust Walls and Corners, Remove Cobwebs: Use a long-handled duster to reach high walls and corners, removing dust and cobwebs. Pay special attention to ceiling corners and light fixtures where cobwebs often form. This keeps your home looking clean and prevents dust buildup.
4. Clean Remote Controls: Wipe down remote controls with a disinfectant wipe. These often-overlooked items can harbor germs and bacteria. Regular cleaning helps maintain a hygienic living environment.
5. Clean Upholstery – Couches and Armchairs: Vacuum and spot clean upholstery on couches and armchairs. Use an upholstery cleaner for any stains, and ensure the fabric is properly dried to prevent mold or mildew. This keeps your furniture looking fresh and extends its lifespan.
6. Clean Windows and Doors: Wash windows and doors inside and out with a glass cleaner. Make sure to clean the window sills and tracks as well. This improves the appearance of your apartment and allows more natural light to enter.
7. Clean Door Mats: Shake outdoor mats to remove dirt and debris. Wash them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean mats reduce the amount of dirt tracked into your home and enhance its entrance.

Kitchen

1. Dust the High Surfaces, on Top and Behind the Appliances: Dust high surfaces, including the tops of cabinets and behind appliances. These areas often collect grease and dust. Regular cleaning prevents buildup and maintains a hygienic kitchen.
2. Wash Kitchen Cabinets and Shelves Inside and Out: Empty cabinets and shelves, then wash them with warm soapy water. Wipe down the exterior and dry thoroughly before replacing items. This prevents pests and keeps your kitchen organized.
3. Deep Clean Refrigerator, Oven, Microwave, Dishwasher, Coffee Maker, and Toasters: Perform a deep clean on all major kitchen appliances. Remove shelves and drawers from the refrigerator and wash them. Clean the oven’s interior with a suitable cleaner. Run an empty cycle with a dishwasher cleaner. Descale the coffee maker and clean the toaster’s crumb tray. Regular deep cleaning keeps appliances working efficiently and prolongs their life.
4. Deep Clean and Disinfect the Sink: Use a scrub brush and disinfectant to clean the kitchen sink deep. Pay attention to the faucet and drain area. This prevents bacteria buildup and keeps your sink hygienic.
5. Dust Off the Blinds: Use a duster or vacuum attachment to remove dust from the blinds. Clean each slat individually to ensure thorough dust removal. This keeps your window coverings looking neat and reduces dust in the air.

Bedroom

1. Clean Tile Grout on Floor and Walls: Scrub the tile grout on the floor and walls with a grout cleaner. Use a brush to remove any mildew or stains. Clean grout enhances the appearance of your tiled areas and prevents mold growth.
2. Replace Toothbrush Heads: Change the heads on electric toothbrushes or replace manual toothbrushes. Regular replacement ensures effective cleaning and reduces bacteria buildup.
3. Wash Out All Drawers and Shelves Inside and Out: Empty all bedroom drawers and shelves. Wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild cleaner. Dry thoroughly before putting items back. This prevents dust accumulation and keeps your storage areas clean.

Bathroom

1. Wash Pillows, Bedding, Cushions, and Blankets: Launder pillows, bedding, cushions, and blankets according to the care labels. Clean bedding improves sleep hygiene and freshness. Ensure all items are completely dry before using them again.
2. Clean Mattress: Vacuum your mattress to remove dust and allergens. Spot-clean any stains with a suitable cleaner. Consider using a mattress protector to keep it cleaner for longer. A clean mattress promotes better sleep and extends its lifespan.

Once or Twice a Year Cleaning

All Rooms

1. Clean Out Fireplace: If you have a fireplace, clean it thoroughly to remove soot, ash, and debris. Start by removing the logs and ashes. Use a vacuum to clean up any loose ash. Scrub the interior with a stiff brush and a fireplace cleaner. This ensures safe and efficient use during colder months.
2. Wash Out Shoe Shelves and Cabinets: Empty shoe shelves and cabinets. Wipe down the surfaces with a damp cloth and mild cleaner. Remove any dirt, dust, and scuff marks. Allow them to dry completely before placing the shoes back. This keeps your footwear storage clean and organized.
3. Dust Vents and Ceiling Fans: Use a duster or a vacuum attachment to clean vents and ceiling fans. Dust accumulates on these surfaces over time, affecting air quality. Make sure to clean the fan blades and the area around the vents. This helps maintain good airflow and reduces allergens.
4. Clean Drapes and Curtains: Remove drapes and curtains for cleaning. Follow the care instructions—machine wash, hand wash, or dry clean. Dust the curtain rods and window frames while the drapes are being cleaned. Clean window treatments enhance the look of your windows and improve air quality.

Kitchen

1. Clean and Organize Pantry: Empty the pantry and sort through items. Discard expired and old products. Wipe down the shelves with a damp cloth and mild cleaner. Group similar items together and place them back in an organized manner. This keeps your pantry clean and makes it easier to find what you need.
2. Clean Grease from Exhaust Hood: Grease can build up on the hood over time. Use a degreaser or a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the hood. Make sure to clean the filters as well. Removing grease improves the efficiency of your exhaust system and keeps your kitchen smelling fresh.

Bathroom

1. Clean Inside Drawers and Cabinets: Empty all bathroom drawers and cabinets. Wipe down the interiors with a damp cloth and mild cleaner. Remove any dust, spills, or residue. Dry thoroughly before replacing items. This prevents mold and keeps your storage areas hygienic.
2. Throw Out Old Cosmetics, Medicines, and Other Products: Sort your bathroom products and discard expired cosmetics, medicines, and other items. Check expiration dates and dispose of items safely. This declutters your space and ensures you only keep usable products.
3. Clean the clogs: Check drains for clogs and clean them out. Use a drain cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clear blockages. Regularly clearing clogs prevents slow drainage and reduces the risk of plumbing issues.

Outside

1. Sweep and Wash Porches and Patios: Sweep porches and patios to remove dirt, leaves, and debris. Use a hose or pressure washer to wash the surfaces. Pay attention to corners and hard-to-reach areas. Clean outdoor spaces enhance your apartment’s curb appeal and provide a relaxing location.
2. Clean the Gutters: Clean out gutters to remove leaves, twigs, and other debris. Use a ladder to access the gutters, and wear gloves for protection. Flush the gutters with water to ensure they are clear. Regular gutter maintenance prevents water damage and keeps your home’s exterior in good condition.

Cleaning Essentials for Apartment

Having the right cleaning essentials makes maintaining your apartment much more accessible. Here’s a detailed list of the cleaning supplies you should keep on hand, categorized by area of use.

General Cleaning Essentials

1. Duster: A duster is essential for removing dust from surfaces, including shelves, countertops, and furniture. Choose one with a long handle to reach high places like ceiling fans and light fixtures. Microfiber dusters are especially effective as they trap dust particles rather than just moving them around.
2. Floor Cleaner & Mop: A Good floor cleaners suitable for your floor type (wood, tile, laminate) are necessary. Pair it with a quality mop. A microfiber mop head works well for all floor types and is machine washable. For convenience, consider a mop with a built-in wringer.
3. Vacuum: If you have carpets, a vacuum with strong suction and a beater bar is ideal. A vacuum with a soft brush attachment for hard floors will prevent scratches. A handheld vacuum is also handy for quick cleanups and reaching tight spaces.
4. Window Cleaner: A streak-free window cleaner helps keep your windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces spotless. Use a squeegee or microfiber cloth to achieve a clear, smudge-free finish.
5. Microfiber Clothes: Microfiber cloths are versatile and practical for various cleaning tasks. They can be used dry for dusting or dampened for wiping down surfaces. They are durable, reusable, and highly effective at trapping dust and dirt.

Kitchen Cleaning Essentials

1. Counter Top Spray: A multi-surface countertop spray is crucial for keeping kitchen surfaces clean and sanitized. Look for a safe product for food contact surfaces that is effective against grease and grime.
2. Dish Soap: Quality dish soap is essential for hand washing dishes, pots, and pans. Choose one that cuts through grease but is gentle on your hands. It’s also useful for cleaning other kitchen items and surfaces.
3. Stainless Steel Cleaner: To keep your stainless steel appliances looking their best, use a stainless steel cleaner. It removes fingerprints, smudges, and streaks, leaving a shiny finish.
4. Steel Wool Pads: Steel wool pads are great for scrubbing tough stains and burnt-on food from pots, pans, and grills. They should be used with care to avoid scratching surfaces.
5. Dish Sponges: Keep a variety of dish sponges on hand. Use soft sponges for delicate surfaces and abrasive ones for stricter cleaning tasks. Regularly replace sponges to maintain hygiene.
6. Disposal Cleaner: A disposal cleaner helps keep your garbage disposal fresh and odor-free. Use it to remove food buildup and deodorize the unit.

Bathroom Cleaning Essentials

1. Toilet Cleaner: A toilet cleaner is necessary for maintaining a clean and sanitary toilet bowl. Use it regularly to prevent stains and buildup. Consider a product with disinfecting properties for added hygiene.
2. Bleach Spray: Bleach spray is effective for disinfecting and whitening surfaces. Use it in the bathroom to clean tiles, grout, and other hard surfaces. Always follow safety instructions when using bleach.
3. Cleaning Gloves: Protect your hands from harsh chemicals and hot water with a good pair of cleaning gloves. They also help maintain hygiene by preventing direct contact with dirty surfaces.
4. Disinfecting Wipes: Disinfecting wipes are convenient for quick cleanups and sanitizing surfaces. Use them on sinks, countertops, and other high-touch areas to kill germs and bacteria.

Laundry Cleaning Essentials

1. Laundry Detergent: Choose a laundry detergent that’s effective at removing stains and odors while being gentle on fabrics. Consider a hypoallergenic option if you have sensitive skin.
2. Fabric Conditioner; Fabric conditioner helps keep your clothes soft and static-free. It also adds a pleasant fragrance and makes ironing easier.
3. Color Catcher: Color catchers prevent colors from bleeding during washing. Use them to protect your clothes and keep colors vibrant.
4. Stain Remover: A stain remover is essential for treating tough stains before washing. Choose one that’s effective on a variety of stains and fabrics.

Miscellaneous Items

1. Magic Erasers: Magic erasers are versatile cleaning tools that can remove tough marks and stains from various surfaces, including walls, floors, and appliances. They’re great for spot cleaning and quick touch-ups.
2. Carpet Stain Remover: Keep a carpet stain remover on hand to tackle spills and stains on carpets and rugs. Choose one that’s effective and safe for your carpet type.

Apartment Cleaning Tips and Tricks

Keeping your apartment clean can be manageable and enjoyable with the right approach. Here are some practical tips and tricks to help you maintain a spotless and organized living space.

Develop a Cleaning Routine

Creating a regular cleaning routine ensures that tasks don’t pile up. Divide chores into daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. For example, do light daily cleaning, like wiping down counters and washing dishes—reserve more intensive tasks, like vacuuming and cleaning bathrooms, for a weekly schedule. Deep cleaning can be done monthly or seasonally.

Declutter Regularly

Clutter can make your apartment feel messy even when it’s clean. Regularly go through your belongings and remove items you no longer need. Storage solutions like bins, baskets, and shelves are used to keep things organized. A decluttered space is easier to clean and maintain.

Use Multipurpose Cleaners

Invest in good multipurpose cleaners that can be used on various surfaces. This saves space and money. A reliable all-purpose cleaner can handle most of your cleaning needs, from kitchen counters to bathroom surfaces.

Clean as You Go

Adopt the habit of cleaning as you go about your day. Wipe down surfaces after use, put things back in place, and tackle small messes immediately. This prevents dirt and grime from building up, making deep cleaning sessions more manageable.

Focus on High-Traffic Areas

High-traffic areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and entryway get dirty quickly. Give these areas extra attention in your cleaning routine. Regularly sweeping and mopping floors, wiping down surfaces, and disinfecting doorknobs and light switches can make a big difference.

Use the Right Tools

Using the right cleaning tools can make your job easier and more efficient. Microfiber cloths are great for dusting and wiping down surfaces because they trap dirt and dust effectively. A good vacuum cleaner is essential for keeping floors clean, and a mop with a wringer can make mopping quicker and more effective.

Don’t Forget Hidden Spots

It’s easy to overlook hidden spots like under furniture, behind appliances, and inside cabinets. Make it a point to clean these areas regularly to prevent dust and dirt buildup. Use a vacuum attachment to reach tight spots and a damp cloth to wipe down surfaces.

Freshen Up with Natural Scents

Keep your apartment smelling fresh by using natural scents. Essential oils, like lavender or lemon, can be used in a diffuser to add a pleasant aroma to your home. You can also simmer citrus peels and herbs on the stove for a natural air freshener.

Tackle Stains Immediately

Address stains as soon as they happen to prevent them from setting. Quick action can save you a lot of effort later, whether it’s on your carpet, upholstery, or clothing. Blot stains with a clean cloth and use an appropriate cleaner for the surface.

Make Cleaning Fun

Turn cleaning into a fun activity by playing your favorite music or listening to a podcast while you work. Set a timer to challenge yourself to complete tasks quickly. Breaking up the monotony can make cleaning feel less like a chore.

Involve Everyone

If you live with others, involve them in the cleaning process. Divide chores evenly to lighten the load. Assigning specific tasks to each person can help ensure that everything gets done and no one feels overwhelmed.

Regularly Air Out Your Home

Open windows to let fresh air in and reduce indoor air pollutants. Good ventilation helps keep your apartment smelling fresh and can prevent moisture and mold buildup. Aim to air out your home for at least a few minutes daily.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your apartment clean doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You can maintain a spotless and comfortable living space with a clear plan and the right tools. Regularly scheduled tasks, along with a few daily habits, will keep your home in top shape. Remember to declutter often, use multipurpose cleaners, and tackle high-traffic areas regularly. Cleaning as you go and involving everyone in your household can make the process easier and more efficient. Enjoy the process by adding music or a podcast to your routine. By following these tips and sticking to your checklist, you’ll create a healthy and inviting environment you can be proud of.