Back-to-School Cleanup

Back-to-school cleanup is more than a tradition; it’s a smart way to reset your home for the upcoming school year. As summer passes by, it’s the perfect time to declutter, reset routines, and get everything back in order before the backpacks, lunchboxes, and homework return in full swing. A clean, organized home can ease the transition and create a positive, learning attitude.
Remove the Summer Mess
For over two decades, I’ve noticed a pattern with our Great Touch Cleaning clients: mid-summer brings a wave of deep cleaning requests, especially from families with school-aged children. It makes perfect sense. When the kids are home all summer, the house sees more wear and tear, and suddenly needs a serious refresh.
Here are some of the trouble spots parents notice most:
- Floors – They almost always need extra scrubbing.
- Baseboards – Dust, markers, snack smears, and the occasional muddy splash—scrubbing required.
- Walls – Covered in handprints, mystery smudges, and food stains.
- Carpets – Mud, spills, and summer grime mean a professional carpet cleaner might be a good idea.
- Furniture legs – Ever looked at the legs of your dining table? They’re often covered in sticky surprises.
- Kitchen – That fishy smell? It could be a leftover from the last camping trip. The fridge needs a clear-out and a good wipe-down—after all, we need space for fresh school lunches.
As always, our team at Great Touch Cleaning, Inc. is happy to help with the heavy-duty scrubbing. Just call: 847-650-1531.
But if you’re looking to go beyond cleaning and get organized before the school year, at the same time here are a few tips to help your home run more smoothly this fall.
Back-To-School Cleaning and Organizing
Back-to-school season is a natural time to regroup. New grade levels bring fresh goals, and a clean, organized environment helps your kids—and you—start strong. With a little planning, you can create a calm, structured home that supports your family’s daily routine.
1. Declutter Before You Shop
Before you buy anything new, clean out kids’ closets, drawers, and shelves. Donate what’s outgrown, toss what’s broken, and take inventory. You’ll save time and money by only buying what’s really needed.
2. Clear off Desks and Other Work Areas
Summer memories are great, but school supplies need space, too. Clear desktops and make room for folders, laptops, and study time. It’s also a great opportunity to tidy up digital clutter on the computers the kids will use.
3. Schedule a Deep Cleaning
Whether you do it yourself or call Great Touch Cleaning, Inc., deep cleaning is best done before school starts. With fewer items on shelves and in drawers (thanks to your decluttering!), the cleaning will be more effective and faster.
4. Organize New Supplies
Once you’ve done your shopping, make sure everything has a home. Hang new outfits in empty closets, stock desks with supplies, and teach your kids where everything goes. Tidiness builds long-term habits.
5. Set up New School Year Routines
Now that everything is clean and in place, you can create a sustainable schedule:
- Assign daily or weekly chores for each family member.
- Designate a spot to showcase new trophies, art, or awards that will keep coming home during the year. Ask your kids to help with this project—so that they feel ownership and pride in this space.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning for wellness starts with small, consistent steps. Whether it’s decluttering, deep scrubbing, or setting up smart routines, each action supports a healthier, happier home for your family.
Want more seasonal cleaning and organizing tips? Check our blog soon for the upcoming post about “Organizing Your Home Office for Success”. Follow Great Touch Cleaning, Inc. on Facebook for updates, checklists, and free resources designed to make your life easier.
Here’s to a clean, organized, and joyful school year!
As for now, enjoy your Summer and…