The deep clean checklist: what “properly” actually means

“Deep clean” is used for everything from a wipe-round to a full reset. This is the list I work through in every house, so you know what to expect and what to ask any other cleaner for.

Kitchen

• Worktops and splashback degreased, not just wiped.
• Cupboard fronts, handles, cupboard tops (where the grease-dust lives).
• Hob top, extractor hood exterior, sink and taps descaled, draining board.
• Appliance exteriors; inside microwave.
• Bin, bin area, floor washed including edges and under the table.
• Add-ons: oven inside (€55–65), fridge inside (€30, emptied), extractor filters (€40).

Bathrooms

• Limescale removed from taps, shower screen, tiles and toilet bowl, not softened, removed.
• Grout and silicone treated for mould.
• Shower tray, bath, basin, toilet inside and out including the base and the hinges.
• Mirror, light fittings, extractor grille, window sill.
• Floor washed, behind the toilet and the door.

Bedrooms and living rooms

• Skirting boards, door frames, door tops, light switches and sockets.
• Radiators, curtain rails, picture frames, lampshades dusted.
• Furniture polished; under and behind moveable furniture.
• Inside windows, sills and tracks.
• Floors: hoovered edge to edge, hard floors washed.

Hall, stairs and landing

• Banisters and spindles, skirting up the stairs, radiator, light fittings.
• Front door inside, glass, mat area.
• Stairs carpet hoovered; extraction if marked (€120 for stairs and landing).

What isn’t in a deep clean

Outside windows, carpet extraction, inside cupboards and drawers unless emptied, walls beyond spot marks. All available on the same visit and priced into the one quote.

How long it takes

A 3-bed semi is usually 5–7 hours; on bigger houses I bring a second pair of hands so you’re not living around it all day. Deep clean prices and details.