Cover photo courtesy of Nicole Rasmussen.
Traveling can be an exhilarating experience, but returning home to a messy, disorganized house can quickly dampen that post-trip glow.
After seeing this video by one of our favorite content creators Brandon Chou (@withbrandon), we felt inspired to put together a list of 10 creative ways to clean your home before traveling. These tips will not only make your cleaning routine efficient but also infuse your space with a touch of personal style. Check out our tips below!
@withbrandon if i have a bad travel day at least i come home to a peaceful space
♬ Tin Tin Por Tin Tin
Declutter and Donate
Begin your pre-travel cleaning journey by decluttering your home. Sort through your belongings and set aside items that you no longer need or use. Consider donating them to local charities or thrift stores. Not only will this give you a cleaner space, but it also helps those in need.
Set Up a Laundry Station
Before you leave, gather all the laundry and create a designated laundry station. Sort your clothes into separate hampers for whites, colors, and delicates. This way, when you return, you'll have clean, sorted laundry ready to be put away.
Freshen Up with Natural Scents
Infuse your home with delightful scents by placing small bowls filled with dried lavender, cinnamon sticks, or citrus peels in various rooms. As time passes, the natural aromas will gently waft through your home, creating a fresh and inviting atmosphere.
Invest in Smart Storage Solutions
To maintain a tidy and organized home, invest in smart storage solutions. Consider decorative baskets, storage ottomans, and wall-mounted shelves to keep items neatly stored away. Opt for stylish pieces that seamlessly blend with your existing interior design.
Utilize Aromatherapy
Before leaving, add a few drops of essential oils to your vacuum cleaner's filter or attach a scented sachet to the intake vent. As you vacuum upon returning, the fragrance will be released, filling your rooms with a pleasant aroma.
Implement a Self-Watering System
For your indoor plants, set up a self-watering system to ensure they receive the proper care in your absence. There are many affordable options available that allow you to control the water flow, keeping your plants healthy and vibrant.
Create a Faux Hotel Room Experience
Make your bedroom feel like a luxury hotel suite by setting up fresh linens, fluffed pillows, and a small welcome basket with essentials like water, snacks, and toiletries. Returning to a beautifully prepared space will instantly make you feel pampered!
Enlist the Help of Robotic Cleaners
Consider investing in robotic cleaners such as robotic vacuums and mops. Set them on a cleaning schedule so they can keep your floors sparkling while you're away. Coming back to pristine floors will make your return home that much sweeter.
Digitalize Your To-Do List
Streamline your cleaning routine by digitalizing your household to-do list. Use productivity apps to create reminders and schedules for routine cleaning tasks. This way, you can stay organized and ensure that everything is taken care of before your departure.
Welcome Back with Fresh Flowers
Finally, if you're going on a shorter trip, prepare a small vase of fresh flowers to greet you upon your return. Place them in a prominent spot, such as the entryway or the kitchen counter. The vibrant colors and sweet fragrance will instantly lift your mood!