Weekly House Cleaning Checklist

A weekly house cleaning checklist for your home's high-touch hot spots. Using a cleaner-disinfectant saves time because it combines two steps, completing the dirty jobs more quickly.

Just make sure to read the product's label for the correct way to do this. It takes just a minute to read directions on the label of any cleaner or disinfectant you're using.

Alternatively, you can battle the germs the time-tested way by first cleaning sticky spots or areas in the kitchen and bathroom with warm, soapy water (dishwashing liquid works well here) to remove surface grime before disinfecting.

Even if you don't have a lot of time to spend cleaning, you can do it right—and fast. Once a week, follow these 11 steps to eliminate germs that have taken hold in your home.

11 Weekly House Cleaning Checklist Chores For Germ Control

1. Clean Kitchen Countertops

From serving as a sandwich-making station to sorting mail, kitchen countertops see a lot of action—and can harbor a lot of germs.

Clean and disinfect counter surfaces frequently, especially before and after preparing meals or snacks, using a disinfecting wipe or spray.

We give the main countertops attention each day, but there are likely places we neglect in the daily rush. Each week, perform a more thorough cleaning of the countertops.

Remove all items from your counters and wipe them down with a non-abrasive all-purpose cleaner and disinfectant. Let the counters dry, then put everything back.

Check the manufacturer's directions for specialty countertops on your weekly house cleaning checklist.

2. Freshen the Refrigerator

Check for any spills that need cleaning up inside your refrigerator. Check the shelves for any food past its prime and toss it.

If you're unsure, resist the urge to taste test. This guide on how long refrigerated foods keep can help.

3. Clean the Coffee Maker

Clean the coffeepot and filter with a soak of water and some dishwashing liquid. Wipe down the exterior of the coffee maker with a disinfecting wipe.

4. Disinfect the Microwave

Clean the interior and exterior of the microwave with an all-purpose cleaner and disinfectant, following the appliance's instructions.

Don't forget the keypad. Remove the turntable and wash it with dish soap and water. Or send it for a spin in the dishwasher if it is dishwasher safe.

5. Remove and Wash Stove Knobs

Our stove knobs see a lot of grime and germs from splattered food and hands used for food preparation.
Hand-wash the knobs or oil the sink with hot soapy water to soak them in for 15 to 20 minutes.

6. Change Out and Wash Kitchen Dishcloths

Kitchen towels, like kitchen sponges, are a haven for germs. To prevent the spread of germs, as part of your weekly house cleaning checklist, change out your kitchen dish towels at least once a week.

Wash towels in the washing machine, using hot water, and dry on high heat. Make sure the towels are completely dry before using them. Most bacteria thrive in moisture.

7. Clean and Disinfect Bathroom Sinks, Tubs, and Toilets

Gloved hand cleaning inside toilet bowl with brush.

You can save time by spraying cleaners on areas that will benefit from extra soaking time, such as the toilet bowl and tub or shower, and tackling other surfaces while the cleaners do the dirty work.

8. Wash Bath Towels and Bed Linens

Round up your home's bathroom towels and bed linens. Take care not to fluff or shake them, as this can spread germs and dust around the house.

And don't just scoop them up in your arms: it's best to gather them in a laundry basket that you can clean and disinfect after starting the wash to avoid cross-contamination.

Wash towels and linens in the warmest water that is safe for the fabric.

9. Clean Toothbrush Holders

Wash or soak all toothbrush holders in warm, soapy water, then allow them to air dry. Wipe the surface of the toothbrush holder with a disinfecting wipe. Or place in the dishwasher on the top rack, if dishwasher safe.

10. Mop the Floors and Vacuum Carpets

Floors are more important than you first think when it comes to germ risk. Our kids play on the floor, and we set our bags down on the floor, which we then move around the house.

As part of your weekly house cleaning checklist chores, pull out the mop and vacuum, and give your floors the once-over.

11. Final Weekly House Cleaning Checklist Chore: Keyboard Duty

The final weekly house cleaning checklist chore: give computer keyboards some love. First, always ensure that you turn computers and components off before cleaning.

Turn the keyboard upside down, then lightly tap the bottom of the keyboard to dislodge crumbs. Turn back over and vacuum with a brush attachment.

You can also use a can of compressed air to blow the bits out. Wipe the keys with a disinfecting wipe that doesn't contain bleach, squeezing it first to remove excess moisture. Allow to air-dry.