Domestic Details
I gotta tell ya, there’s nothing that will get you motivated to cleaning your pad like throwing a party, and you better believe it’s important. Ever been to someone else’s domicile and wondered how they could live like that? Well, don’t let your guests think the same of you.
Fortunately we have some helpful cleaning information that will not only make you look like Mr. Clean, it’s guaranteed to put a sparkle in her eye. And to make sure you don’t forget anything, use our Checklists when planning your next party. But first, read on …
Kitchen Cleaning and Prep
Take time to give your kitchen and refrigerator a good cleaning before you throw a party or have that someone special over for a romantic dinner. Nothing will give your guests reasons to question your culinary capabilities faster than a kitchen with dried-on food splatters all over the range and walls or moldy food in the refrigerator.
Clean out your refrigerator of old pizza boxes and outdated condiments. Using bleach water (1 tablespoon to a gallon of water), wipe down the refrigerator (inside and out), your counters, microwave and range, and remove any toasty morsels at the bottom of your oven. Use oven cleaner to clean your oven and make sure you burn off the cleaning residue well before you cook anything. It’s best to do this a few days ahead of time so the smell will be long gone before guests arrive.
Make sure your steak and kitchen knives are sharp and ready for cutting and that you also have plenty of kitchen supplies and pantry items so you won’t run out at the wrong time.
Bathroom check
Here’s another major miscue that could send her packing, and everyone else too. It’s an absolute must that the entire bathroom is clean. That includes the shower, bath, sink, floor and commode. Use cleaning products that put a shine on these fixtures and faucets. Don’t forget the fresh hand towels and bath towels if you’re expecting overnight guests. Oh, if there’s anything in the medicine cabinet you’d rather keep to yourself, better move it. Remember the commercial where the house guest is snooping in the cabinet when it comes crashing down? People actually do this, just so you know.
And guys, one more thing, don’t forget to put the lid down – at least for as long as the guests are present. I know, old habits are hard to break, but you must do it. Women notice this stuff and you either get points or have them taken away. Which would you prefer?
Halls, Walls and Floors
This shouldn’t take long, but just make sure that the entry and hallways are free of dust and cobwebs that tend to collect in every corner. Wash any windows, clean any carpet spots and straighten any pictures that need extra attention. Don’t forget to organize the hall closet if you intend to use it for coats.
Bedroom
The time you spend cleaning this room will depend on whether you expect someone may join you later. If so, make sure you have clean sheets and a well made bed. Pick up your clothes and give your closet a quick run through. If dust is piling up, give your dresser and end tables a good wipe down. Look around and make sure everything is in its place and presentable. A fresh candle bedside may not be such a bad idea either. You can use a tea light that lasts about 4 hours, provided that’s long enough.
Guest Bedroom
Whether you’re expecting weekend guests or want to provide a room for a “tired” friend, it’s best to make sure this room is picked up and presentable too. Weekend guests could be afforded additional attention by providing fresh flowers, toiletries and assorted tasty treats. A bathrobe and slippers would be a nice touch if you have an extra set. They’ll appreciate it when they need to use the hall bathroom at night and in the morning.
Living/Family/Dining Room
When it comes to these rooms, it’s best to get ahead start a few days in advance, since they tend to get pretty messy. The key here is to dust, have clean windows, light fixtures and floor, and all non-essential stuff put away and out of sight. Yes, that includes those neon beer signs and Heineken Girls poster if you still have them. Sorry, you’re in the big leagues now. You get the idea.
Other cleaning projects
If you have nice silver pieces and intend on using them for a formal dinner party, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to clean off all that tarnish. Even if you don’t intend to use it, shiny silver makes a nice impression. I’m familiar with this ritual every Thanksgiving or Christmas when the holiday parties begin. This is also a good time to clean seldom used platters, bar glassware and wine glasses. Dust and grime collects so quickly. Also, if you have kids, make sure their stuff is put away too.
T.E.B.
