If you’ve ever hosted a get-together at your Austin home, you know that “Oh no, the guests are coming” feeling all too well. You’ve got the menu planned, the decorations ready — but somehow, the floors, mirrors, and kitchen counters didn’t get the memo. Suddenly, cleaning feels like another full-time job.
As someone who’s helped thousands of Austin homeowners prepare for holidays, birthdays, and family gatherings over the past 21 years, I can tell you this: hosting doesn’t have to feel stressful. With a little structure and a clear timeline, you can have your home looking spotless and still have energy left to enjoy your guests.
This pre-event cleaning plan will walk you through exactly what to do — from decluttering a week in advance to that next-day reset. Whether you’re in South Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, or Leander, this guide gives you simple, proven steps (plus local pro tips!) to help your home feel calm, clean, and guest-ready.
Step 1: One Week Before – Declutter and Prepare the Space
Why It Matters:
Decluttering is the foundation of a clean home. Clear surfaces make dusting and wiping faster while creating a calm, open feel.
How to Do It:
- Focus on guest areas: entryway, living room, kitchen, and bathroom.
- Sort items into keep, donate, or toss bins.
- Replace dim bulbs and open windows for fresh air.
Example:
If your coffee table is cluttered, remove half of the items and add a simple candle or plant.
Pro Tip from Our Team:
Don’t aim for perfection. Focus on removing visual clutter so deep cleaning feels manageable later.
Step 2: Four to Five Days Before – Deep Clean Common Areas
Now that surfaces are clear, start deep cleaning shared spaces where guests will gather.
Living Room & Lounge Areas
- Dust fans, shelves, and baseboards.
- Vacuum under cushions and spot clean stains.
- Polish wood and glass surfaces.
- Fold blankets and fluff pillows.
Dining Area
- Wipe tables, chairs, and light fixtures.
- Wash tablecloths early.
- Add a centerpiece like fresh flowers.
Why It Matters:
Guests notice the cleanliness of shared spaces first. A bright, tidy room creates a lasting impression.
Step 3: Three Days Before – Deep Clean the Kitchen and Bathrooms
These two spaces define how clean your home feels.
Kitchen Cleaning Checklist:
- Scrub the sink with baking soda and rinse with hot water.
- Wipe down counters, cabinets, and appliances.
- Clean fridge shelves and microwave interiors.
- Sweep and mop floors.
- Empty trash cans and replace liners.
Bathroom Cleaning Checklist:
- Scrub sinks, faucets, and toilets.
- Wipe mirrors and vanity tops.
- Restock towels and soap.
- Add air fresheners and clean floors.
Professional Tip:
If you’re short on time, professional party cleanup services like The Boardwalk Cleaning Co. can deep clean your kitchen and bathrooms quickly. We serve homes across Austin, Round Rock, and Cedar Park.
For health and safety standards, refer to the CDC Cleaning Guidance.
Step 4: Two Days Before – Bedrooms and Entryway
Even if guests won’t see every room, fresh linens and clean hallways improve comfort and scent.
Bedrooms:
- Change sheets and pillowcases.
- Dust furniture and windowsills.
- Vacuum floors.
- Place clean towels and bottled water for overnight guests.
Entryway:
- Sweep or vacuum.
- Wipe doors, handles, and light switches.
- Shake out doormats.
- Keep it well-lit for safety.
Pro Tip:
A small tray by the door for keys keeps your entry tidy and functional.
Step 5: One Day Before – Final Surface Clean & Staging
Surface Cleaning:
- Wipe counters, mirrors, and tables.
- Vacuum or sweep floors.
- Empty trash cans.
- Refill soap dispensers and check lighting.
Home Staging:
- Arrange furniture for easy movement.
- Set the dining table.
- Use warm lighting for a cozy atmosphere.
- Add a subtle scent like vanilla or citrus.
A well-staged Austin home feels inviting, whether you live downtown or in Lakeway.
Step 6: Event Day—The Final Touches
Focus on details that make your home sparkle.
Morning-of Checklist:
- Vacuum entryways and visible floors.
- Wipe kitchen counters.
- Polish mirrors and glass.
- Replace trash liners.
- Set out fresh towels.
- Adjust lighting and play soft music.
Scent Refresh Tip:
Boil lemon slices and cinnamon sticks before guests arrive for a clean, natural scent.
See EPA Home Air Quality Tips for guidance on indoor air safety.
Step 7: During the Event – Stay Tidy Without Stress
You don’t need to clean constantly. Keep it light:
- Designate one tray for dirty dishes.
- Label trash and recycling bins.
- Use coasters and napkins.
- Keep wipes nearby for quick spills.
Hosting back-to-back events? Book a house cleaning in Austin between gatherings to reset quickly.
Step 8: After Guests Leave – Same-Night Reset
Do a light reset before bed so the morning feels easier.
Quick Tasks:
- Take out trash and recycling.
- Load the dishwasher.
- Soak pots and pans.
- Wipe spills and sweep floors.
- Start a small laundry load.
Step 9: The Next Day – Full Post-Event Cleaning
Now it’s time to refresh completely.
Kitchen: Wipe counters and appliances, remove leftovers, and mop floors.
Living Room: Dust surfaces, vacuum rugs, and rearrange furniture.
Bathrooms: Disinfect all surfaces and restock supplies.
Laundry: Wash linens and treat stains early.
For large events, book a move-out cleaning in Austin for a professional-level reset.
The Boardwalk Cleaning Co. specializes in after-party cleaning across Austin and Cedar Park.
Step 10: Keep Your Home Guest-Ready All Year
Stay ready with a few small daily habits:
- Keep wipes and cloths in a basket.
- Store extra hand towels and soap.
- Wipe kitchen counters nightly.
- Do a quick laundry or dish load before bed.
Scheduling recurring cleanings with a trusted Austin company like The Boardwalk Cleaning Co. keeps your home consistently fresh.
FAQs
- When should I start pre-event cleaning?
Start at least one week before your event. Declutter early, deep clean three days out, and do final touch-ups the day before. - Which rooms matter most if I’m short on time?
Focus on the kitchen, bathrooms, and entryway. These areas make the strongest impression. - What’s the easiest way to manage post-party cleanup?
Do a light reset the same night, then a full clean the next morning. - When should I hire professionals?
Hire party cleanup services for large or holiday events. They save hours of work and deliver a spotless finish. - How do I make my home smell fresh before guests?
Open windows briefly, clean fabrics, and use natural scents like lemon or vanilla.
Conclusion
Hosting is about connection — not chaos. When your home feels clean and organized, you can focus on what truly matters: spending time with the people you love.
At The Boardwalk Cleaning Co., we’ve been helping Austin homeowners shine for more than two decades. With over 1,400 five-star reviews, insured and background-checked cleaners, and trusted service across South Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, and Lakeway, we make it easy to feel confident before, during, and after your event.
Whether you need a pre-event deep clean, after-party reset, or recurring service to stay guest-ready year-round, our team has you covered.
Ready to enjoy your next event without the stress?
Book your pre-event cleaning today and come home to that “wow” moment your guests will notice the second they walk in.
