We love our backyards, porches, decks, pools, etc but when it comes time to cleaning, those perks become daunting tasks really quick.  A lot of first-time homeowners or folks who first move out to the suburbs aren’t used to the added chore of cleaning the outside of the home, not just inside. Here are some tips to help you get started on deep cleaning your home!

Walls, Windows, Outside of Home

You’d be surprised how often people forget to wash their windows, inside AND outside. Some people don’t see the value of deep cleaning outside their homes at all, but dirt and dust and dead bugs build up.

• Take a thick towel or brush and dust and dry wipe off as much debris or build-up before adding liquid of any kind.
• Use a microfiber cloth and a soap mixture to gently wipe down glass surfaces.
• Thoroughly wipe down the exterior of your house with a hose or mop scrub.
• Be sure to check the right cleaning solution for your exterior so you don’t do any unnecessary damage.

Porch, Deck, Outdoor Seating Area

POWER WASHING IS YOUR FRIEND. First and foremost, sweep and dust off as many surfaces as you can to prepare for the intense hosing down you’re about to give your porch, deck or other miscellaneous outdoor area on a raised platform.

• Spray down every surface for at least 2-3 min, a few min at a time. Allow for the water to drain off before you continue spraying. 
• Apply a mixture of soap and water to get any hard-to-remove scum.
• Inspect furniture for wear and tear and other damage from the elements.

Front and Backyard 

Maintenance of the yard can be so tedious but clean-up is crucial to keeping mold, critters and other unpleasant things from creeping from outside to the inside. Out-of-control vines or tree branches in need of a trim can start to affect the outside of your home, destabilizing the integrity.

• Rake any dead leaves, twigs. Pick up trash and any other debris that may have blown onto your lawn.
• Mow the lawn! Or pay someone else to do it. Either works.
• Trim the bushes, prune and water the flowers, cut off any low-hanging branches on the property.

These are basic but essential tips to help you get the outside of your property looking just as gorgeous on the inside. All it takes is some soap, willpower and help from a family member or two. Happy mowing!