Even the tidiest homes need a deep clean from time to time. Whether you’re cleaning before guests arrive or just getting around to a thorough job, a home-wide checklist is a big help. Breaking down the work into smaller chores helps you feel more manageable and make the most of your time.

House cleaning Phoenix prices expert Debbie Sardone recommends establishing a specific order for tasks so you don’t waste time running back and forth to accomplish the same chores. For example, don’t dust a room and then wipe down a coffee table—dust from the blinds will re-coat the freshly cleaned surface. Instead, she suggests starting at the top of a room, such as a ceiling fan, and then working down.

Get Ready for the Clean

Before you start any of your standard cleaning, remove as much clutter as possible to give your cleaner a clean slate. This also makes it easier to reach hard-to-reach areas.

Once the clutter is gone, vacuum and sweep the floors (if applicable) to pick up any loose dirt or debris that may have fallen since your last cleaning. Then, mop the floor and, if necessary, spray a deodorizer or disinfectant.

The next step is to clean the surfaces in your kitchen, bathroom, and living rooms. For example, wipe the counters and cabinets, clean the sinks and bathtubs and, if applicable, wash and disinfect the refrigerator, freezer, and microwave. Don’t forget to clean the outside of appliances, too. Once you’ve done these tasks, move on to your bedrooms and any other spaces that aren’t used frequently.