Key Home Maintenance Tasks for Homeowners: The Ultimate Checklist

Whether you’re a proud new homeowner or have been in your house for years, keeping it in tip-top shape is crucial. Some tasks might seem time-consuming or difficult, but neglecting them can lead to bigger headaches down the road. Here’s your ultimate checklist to maintain your home and keep everything running smoothly.

1. Clean the Dryer and Dryer Vent

Built-up lint can pose a serious fire risk. Dust and lint escape through small gaps and can ignite from a spark, spreading through the exhaust vent. Clean the lint filter after every load and get the vent professionally cleaned annually.

2. Keep Aerators Clean

Buildup in your kitchen and bathroom faucet aerators can reduce water flow and make the water unsanitary. Disassemble the aerators, soak them in vinegar for at least 30 minutes, and scrub with a brush.

3. Clean the Oven Door

Old food splashes can cause odors and smoke. Clean spills immediately and wipe down the oven door regularly. For neglected ovens, you might need to clean between the glass door panels.

4. Dust the Bath Fan

Dust and moisture combine into a film on bath fans. Clean the fan by removing the cover and using a brush. Vacuum if necessary.

5. Wash the Garbage Can

Liners and bags aren’t foolproof. Spray the inside of the can with disinfectant whenever you take out the garbage to avoid unpleasant odors.

6. Vacuum the Mattress

Changing sheets isn’t enough. Vacuum your mattress every few months and air it outdoors occasionally to disinfect and remove odors.

7. Wipe Down Walls

Dust your walls and trim with a Swiffer floor mop covered with a dry dust rag. This keeps your walls free of dust and cobwebs without the need for a ladder.

8. Clean the Back of the Fridge

Dust and grime accumulate behind the fridge. Clean this area a few times a year to keep your fridge running efficiently.

9. Wash the Deck

A power washer and a degreasing agent make washing your deck easier. Regular cleaning keeps it looking great and prevents buildup.

10. Clean the Dishwasher

Food bits can cause odors and dirty dishes. Clean the dishwasher regularly to keep it running smoothly.

11. Clean the Chimney

Hire a professional to clean your chimney annually to prevent dangerous creosote fires.

12. Wash the Siding

Hose down vinyl siding regularly to remove dust and prevent stubborn stains. Use a soft sponge with a household cleaner for tougher spots.

13. Clean the Fridge Interior

Regularly empty and wash the inside of your fridge with soapy water. This helps you rotate food and avoid mold and expired products.

14. Blow Soffit Vents Clean

Clear debris from soffit vents with a compressor or leaf blower to maintain good attic ventilation.

15. Wash Weep Holes

Keep window weep holes clear to ensure proper drainage. Use a hose, compressed air, or a wire hanger.

16. Wipe Down Doorknobs

Sanitize doorknobs and light switches with a bleach-based cleaner every few days to prevent the spread of germs.

17. Clean Outdoor Lights

Dust and pests can dim outdoor lights. Clean them regularly and replace burned-out bulbs to maintain your home’s curb appeal.

18. Clean Closets

Rotate seasonal clothes, dust shelves, and wipe down drawers during your seasonal rotation to keep closets organized.

19. Remove Sink and Tub Drain Buildup

Clear slow drains with baking soda and boiling water. Manually remove visible obstructions first.

20. Clean Range Hood Filters

Soak and scrub range hood filters regularly to keep your kitchen free of grease buildup and odors.

21. Clean Pillows

Wash pillows every three months to remove sweat stains and dead skin cells. Use clean tennis balls in the dryer to keep them fluffy.

22. Clean and Wipe Shower Curtains

Prevent mildew by wiping down plastic liners and washing fabric curtains regularly.

23. Keep a Paperwork Binder

Organize bills, repair receipts, and insurance papers in a binder for easy access and clutter-free countertops.

24. Make Appliances Smudge-Free

Apply car wax to stainless steel appliances to repel fingerprints and smudges.

25. Use Baking Soda to Clean Upholstery

Deodorize and clean upholstery stains with baking soda. Let it sit, then vacuum it off.

By incorporating these tasks into your routine, you can keep your home in excellent condition and avoid costly repairs. Happy home maintaining! 🏡✨