Leave the Mess Behind: Pre-Vacation Cleaning & Prep Checklist (Free Download)
There’s nothing like walking back into a clean, cozy home after a vacation. Whether you’re gone for a long weekend or a few weeks, a tidy space can help extend that post-vacation calm. No dirty dishes, no full trash cans—just a home that smells fresh and feels welcoming.
With our trip just a few days away, I’ve been powering through my pre-travel checklist so the only thing I’ll need to worry about when we get back is laundry. I’ve learned over the years that winging it only leads to stress—especially when you’re also trying to pack, prep the kids, and double-check the pet sitter. That’s why I created a master list, and I’m sharing it with you below.
You don’t need to tackle every item on this list—but it’s a helpful guide to make sure nothing slips through the cracks. Below is a free printable version you can grab and keep on hand for future travel.
Let me know if there’s anything you always do before a trip—I’m always looking to improve the list and make prep even easier for the next time. Enjoy your trip, and even more importantly—enjoy coming home!
Want to know what worked well for these tasks? Here’s a breakdown of what I used—including tools, amounts, and tips.
Safety Note: Wear gloves when handling any cleaning products. Always ventilate with windows or fans during use.
🧼 Cleaning Products & Tools (Used for Reference)
Bathroom Cleaners:
Toilets: Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner + Toilet Brush → Apply around rim, let sit 10 mins, scrub and flush.
Sinks & Tubs: Fabuloso (¼ cup in 1 gallon warm water) + Sponge or Scrub Brush.
Mirrors: Windex + Paper Towels or Microfiber Cloth → Spray lightly, wipe in circular motion.
Floors:
Hardwoods: Zep Hardwood Floor Cleaner + Microfiber Mop → Spray and mop in sections—no rinsing needed.
Carpets: Bissell Advanced Pet Stain & Odor + Carpet Cleaner → Follow machine directions. Great for homes with pets.
Living Room:
Couches: DIY Mix → 1 cup warm water + 1 tbsp dish soap + 1 tbsp white vinegar. Dab with a sponge, test on small area first.
Kitchen:
Countertops: Lysol Wipes or Dish Soap + Sponge. Dish Drying Rack: Hot water + Dish Soap + Scrub Brush.
Microwave: 1 cup water + 2 tbsp vinegar in a bowl → Microwave 5 mins, let sit, then wipe clean.
Stovetop: Weiman Cooktop Cleaner + Non-Abrasive Pad.
Oven: Baking Soda + Vinegar Paste + Sponge → Let sit 20–30 mins, scrub, and rinse.
Fridge:
Cleaning: Hot soapy water + Sponge or Cloth.
Odor Control: Open box of Arm & Hammer Baking Soda inside.
Other Supplies:
Gloves
Microfiber cloths
Paper towels
Sponges & scrub brushes
Kirkland dish soap, laundry detergent, and dishwasher pods
