The Ultimate Guide to Maintaining a Show-Home Ready Property: Professional Secrets Revealed
At Mulberry Housekeeping, we've transformed thousands of homes from lived-in spaces to showcase properties. Today, we're sharing our professional blueprint for maintaining that coveted show-home standard every day of the year.
1. The Science of Daily Maintenance
Morning Routine (15 minutes):
Make your bed using the hotel-style technique:
- Pull sheets taut and fold corners at 45-degree angles
- Plump pillows vertically before laying flat
- Layer decorative cushions in odd numbers for visual appeal
Kitchen reset:
- Wipe counters with a microfibre cloth and appropriate cleaner
- Empty dish rack and put away clean items
- Quick-clean coffee maker and kettle to prevent mineral buildup
Evening Reset (20 minutes):
Living space organisation:
- Implement the "one-touch rule": handle items only once when tidying
- Use the "triangle cleaning method": work in triangular sections
- Reset cushions and fold throws using the thirds technique
2. Weekly Maintenance Schedule
Monday: Bathroom Deep Clean
Professional technique breakdown:
- Start with shower walls (top to bottom)
- Use vinegar solution for limescale prevention
- Apply bathroom cleaner and allow 10-minute activation
- Focus on grout lines using specialised brushes
- Don't forget often-missed spots:
* Toilet brush holders
* Behind taps
* Shower door tracks
Tuesday: Kitchen Excellence
Detailed cleaning sequence:
- Degrease cabinet fronts using appropriate cleaners
- Clean microwave using steam method (water + lemon)
- Sanitise sink and drains
- Advanced tip: Use toothbrush for tap bases and drain edges
Wednesday: Living Areas
Systematic approach:
- Dust using the "top-down" principle
- Tackle corners first (spider web prevention)
- Use proper furniture polish techniques:
* Apply in circular motions
* Buff with clean microfibre cloth
* Work in small sections
Thursday: Bedroom Refresh
Professional bedroom maintenance:
- Rotate mattress (monthly)
- Vacuum under bed using proper attachments
- Clean headboards based on material type:
* Fabric: Vacuum with upholstery attachment
* Leather: Specialist leather cleaner
* Wood: Appropriate wood cleaner
Friday: Floor Care
Material-specific techniques:
- Hardwood:
* Dry clean first
* Use appropriate wood cleaner
* Work with wood grain
- Carpet:
* Regular vacuum patterns for even wear
* Spot clean immediately using proper solutions
* Professional deep clean quarterly
3. Monthly Deep Clean Protocol
Week 1: Windows and Mirrors
Professional glass cleaning secrets:
- Use newspaper for streak-free finish
- Clean on cloudy days for best results
- Apply in Z-pattern for thorough coverage
Week 2: Appliance Deep Clean
Detailed process for:
- Oven (natural cleaning methods)
- Refrigerator (including coil cleaning)
- Washing machine (maintenance wash)
- Dishwasher (filter cleaning)
Week 3: Soft Furnishings
Upkeep guidelines for:
- Sofa cleaning based on material
- Curtain maintenance
- Carpet spot treatment
- Rug rotation and cleaning
Week 4: Often Forgotten Areas
Professional checklist:
- Light fixtures and bulbs
- Door frames and tops
- Skirting boards
- Air vents and filters
- Switch plates and door handles
Pro Tips from Our Gold Service Team:
• Use colour-coded cloths for different areas
• Invest in professional-grade cleaning tools
• Create a cleaning caddy for each floor
• Keep a maintenance log for tracking deep clean tasks
When to Call the Professionals:
While this guide helps maintain daily excellence, some tasks benefit from professional expertise. Our Gold Package includes all these elements plus our expert touch, ensuring your home maintains that show-home standard year-round.