5 Cleaning Tips for Your New Home

You’ve got that new Kelly Construction home. It’s fresh with that “new home smell.” Then life happens. The kids leave their trail. Dogs and cats shed their hair. Then add in hosting holidays at your new home. Now your new home isn’t feeling so new. Luckily we’ve got 5 cleaning tips for you to keep your home shining bright.

1. Cabinets

Since the kitchen is often the center of the home, these surfaces are the first to catch a visitor’s eye. Their frequent use makes them the prime target for dirt and clutter. Cabinets above the stove or other appliances get grease buildup. Food, water spots and fingerprints also collect on panels and hardware. Wipe down panels and hardware with a damp microfiber cloth. Regardless of color a quick wipe down enhances the shine.

2. Countertops

Most of the Kelly Construction homes come with quartz countertops. Quartz countertops are extremely durable and heat resistant. They do a wonderful job of brightening up the space, however, they can get fingerprints and stubborn water spots from time to time. Typically, our vendors recommend a little dish soap on a damp microfiber cloth to clean them. As far as stains, you can apply the Bar Keepers Friend on the stain with a non-abrasive sponge.

3. Stainless steel Appliances

There are beginning to be many options for the finish on appliances. It is always best to be sure what is recommended for your exact model and finish of appliances. Some basic suggestions to keep them show ready are a stainless steel cleaner for the stainless portions and a glass cleaner for the glass portions.

For electric stoves, the food buildup is usually minimal and clean up is easy. Kelly Construction homes often feature open gas stove tops. These can be a little trickier to keep clean. We suggest taking the grills off and washing them in a mild soapy water with a soft cloth. Use a soapy sponge or towel to lift food and grease off the bottom of the stove top. Make sure to dry these thoroughly so the flame from the burners is not affected.

4. Floors

Keeping floors clean is a sure way to keep that “new home feel.” Carpets and tiles are pretty easy to clean, but hardwood floors require a little more thought. Dry cleaning by dusting or sweeping daily is the best option. Also make sure to blot liquid spills immediately. For a deep clean, Therapy by Kentwood Spray Cleanser is a good option. Avoid too much water as it can be damaging. Soap and wax cleaners can leave a filmy residue as well.

5. Trim and Baseboards

Thick white trim is the style right now and we don't see that changing anytime soon. Dust tends to build up on the top and in the corners of homes. On white paint, scuff marks may be more noticeable as well. Vacuum all the edges and wipe up the dust to make every room look sharp. Mr Clean’s Magic Eraser is excellent at removing marks on the white trim.

I hope these tips are helpful and keep you loving that home for even longer. Tag us in your Facebook and Instagram stories when you apply these cleaning tips.

All my best,

Stephanie

Stephanie Vostad

Design & Client Experience