Besides 4th of July celebrations which are almost upon us, there are so many other summer holidays and events to host and plan this summer. And yes, here at Clean Couture cleaning company, we are often asked what are the best tips for cleaning outdoor areas in Miami heat and humidity and how to make them look pristine for the holidays. Our take is quite simple: just plan it into your party preparation, and if it’s too overwhelming, delegate to the pros.
So here is the plan for the week ahead for any big (or small) celebrations, so you don’t feel too stressed or exhausted by the time your guests arrive.
Week before: just as you plan your treats, music and entertainment, weave the cleaning of outside areas, or cleaning of living spaces indoors if you are planning to host inside as well as outside, and break them down by days.
Day 1: Declutter and Organize the outside areas
- Declutter the pool area, patio, and any other outdoor spaces. Decide what can be discarded, what needs a good scrubbing, and what should be outright replaced.
- Organize seating and dining areas. Always keep in mind the number of guests. Too much seating can make your place cluttered, and too little creates discomfort.
Day 2. Pool Area Preparation
- Clean the pool: skim the surface, vacuum the bottom, and check the chemical levels.
- Clean and arrange poolside furniture (lounge chairs, tables, umbrellas).
- Inspect and clean the pool deck. Make sure there are no areas that can be potentially hazardous.
Day 3: Outdoor Kitchen and Dining Area
- Clean the grill and any outdoor cooking equipment. We love using red juice by Speed Cleaning, which you may have seen our cleaners use in other areas in your home. It’s food-safe, effective, and any stubborn pieces can be removed with the help of pumice stone.
- Wipe down outdoor tables and chairs. And yes, it may feel too soon, but it’s better to wipe any stubborn grime and dust and just give a quick freshening up before the party.
Day 4: General Outdoor Cleanup
- Mow the lawn and trim bushes. (Or let a landscaper take care of it)
- Sweep and hose down the patio or deck.
- Set up outdoor lighting and larger decorations. Leave the final touches for the same day or day prior.
Day 5: Bathroom Preparation
- Clean and disinfect any outdoor restrooms or pool house bathrooms.
- Replenish toiletries (toilet paper, hand soap, towels).
- Add festive touches (e.g., themed hand towels, mini soaps).
Day 6: Final Touches
- Quick sweep/vacuum of outdoor areas.
- Set up decorations and arrange furniture.
- Prepping food and drinks.
And to the final day!
Maintaining Cleanliness
- Set up trash and recycling stations with clear labels.
- Provide easy access to napkins and wipes for quick cleanups.
- Encourage guests to clean up after themselves.
Quick Cleanups
- Tips for quick cleanups during the party (spills, trash removal).
- Assign family members or friends to help monitor and clean as needed.
Pool Maintenance
- Skim the pool regularly to remove debris.
- Ensure pool safety rules are followed.
We hope your party was a success! Just a few more steps to bring your outdoors to a great shape. While you may be too tired to do it the same day, definitely get to it the next day. And if you are too busy, we can help either before or after your party at any stage, just give us a call!
Immediate Clean-Up
- Collect and dispose of trash and recyclables.
- Clean the grill and outdoor kitchen area.
- Clean and store leftover food properly.
Deep Cleaning
- Clean and store decorations.
- Sweep and hose down the patio or deck.
- Check for and clean any spills or stains on outdoor furniture.
Pool Cleanup
- Skim and vacuum the pool again.
- Check and adjust the chemical levels.
- Store pool toys and equipment properly.