Deep clean: Hard-core cleaning: Now that the clutter is gone, move on to hard-core cleaning. The goal is to make your house shine. Be meticulous. Tidy each room from top to bottom. For a good deep cleaning, you should do the following: • Get rid of cobwebs first. This keeps you from getting dust bunnies all over freshly cleaned floors and furniture. • Dust ceiling fans and lighting fixtures while you clean the cobwebs. • Replace any burned out bulbs. • Dust your blinds. • Wash walls, unless you plan on painting. • Clean all glass surfaces: mirrors, television screens, patio doors, and windows. • Polish all wooden surfaces, including wooden floors. • Dust baseboards and window trim. • Polish door hardware—especially remove paint drips. • Wipe down any leather furniture. • Clean out and reorganize closets and cabinets. • Attack all appliances with cleaning fervor. Make them shine! • Sinks, toilets, tubs, showers, faucets, and countertops need to be impeccable. Every room is important, but the kitchen and bathrooms will take you over the top. They need to be eat-off-the-floor clean. • Vacuum rugs, shampoo carpets, and mop as if your life depends on it. A professional steam cleaning is a good idea. Depersonalize: Remove anything that makes the home uniquely your own, so a buyer can imagine his life in your house. Remove
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