Must-Have Housecleaning Checklist
for Seniors

Cleaning an aging adult’s home can be quite the task. But just knowing how to clean a senior’s home can go a long way in tackling the chore. When you’re ready, here’s a cleaning checklist to help:

• Throw away expired food in refrigerator/freezer and pantry

• Dispose of outdated medications, expired cleaners, and health and beauty products

• Clear objects off of stairways and walkways

• Ensure handrails are securely anchored to walls, all carpets are secured to the ground, and rugs lay flat on the floor

• Wash or replace soiled bedding, mattress pads and pillows

• Clean mold and mildew in bathroom (Click here for a checklist on How to Clean Mildew)

• Look for water damage and mold throughout the house

• Wash or replace musty curtains, blinds and draperies

• Dusty and moldy walls, ceilings and corners of rooms can cause respiratory problems along with dusty ventilation and ceiling fans. Be sure to clean and service furnaces yearly.

Involve your aging loved one in the process, but remember it’s just as overwhelming for them as it is for you. The battle of donating/selling/tossing items versus keeping can be challenging, especially when it’s more about the memories than the physical items. Try snapping a photo of the item. After the memory is captured, it may be easier to donate the item. You could also create a fun photo album with some old and new photos to recreate the memory.

For those pile of special knickknacks, try some elegant boxing. Get sturdy boxes, carefully label the contents and relocate to a basement or storage unit. Your loved one will feel reassured knowing they are in a safe place.

For more information, or to inquire about help with your cleaning tasks, please contact The Maids at 800.843.6243 or request a free estimate online.