Bringing a new baby home is one of – scratch that – it is THE most exciting milestone in any person’s life. Still, joyful as the occasion may be, it also comes with a lot of challenges – and making your home clean, safe, and healthy for your newborn is the most important one to tackle.
However, with all that beautiful chaos happening, even getting started on cleaning can be overwhelming. So, how do you do it? If you want the “easy way out”, hiring professional cleaners from Napa, CA is the way to go. However, if you’re a proud DIY-er who doesn’t mind getting their hands dirty, then this guide is exactly what you need!
How clean should your house be for a newborn?
While your home doesn’t need to be spotless or sterile like a hospital room, it does need to be hygienic – especially those areas where your baby will eat, sleep, and play. The reason why you want to elevate cleanliness levels beyond the standard is that newborns’ immune systems aren’t fully developed.
This makes them more vulnerable to bacteria, viruses, dust mites, mold spores, and chemical residues which, in turn, increase the risk of respiratory issues, skin irritation, and infections during those first precious weeks. Fortunately, that’s nothing that a bit of mindful housekeeping cannot solve.
How do I prepare my house for a newborn?
Fun as it may be to fold tiny onesies, set up the crib, and sprinkle plush toys all over the house, getting your home baby-ready requires cleaning with care – and confidence – both of which can be achieved with a systematic approach. Let’s check out your game plan!
Start with high-touch surfaces
Wipe down doorknobs, light switches, drawer handles, remotes, and banisters using a non-toxic disinfectant. These spots are germ centrals of every home and should be cleaned regularly, even after baby arrives.
Go gentle on cleaners
Avoid harsh chemical products, especially in areas where your baby will spend a lot of time. Look for plant-based, fragrance-free, non-toxic cleaners labeled “baby-safe” or “hypoallergenic.” If you want an all-natural, DIY-friendly, and cheap alternative, white vinegar and baking soda are a proven combo, especially for non-porous surfaces (just be sure to avoid using them on marble or natural stone).
Dust like never before
Dust is more than an annoyance – it’s a mix of dead skin cells, pollen, mold spores, and sometimes even insect droppings. Gross, right? Use a microfiber cloth to effectively remove dust from shelves, baseboards, blinds, ceiling fans, and behind furniture. Be sure to follow the golden rule of cleaning for maximum efficiency: start high, end low.
Clean the air
Believe it or not, indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Therefore, before the baby arrives, definitely change HVAC filters, wipe down vents, and consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter in the nursery and main living spaces.
Tackle mold and mildew
Bathrooms, laundry areas, and basements are havens for mold, which can cause a host of issues for infants. Scrub away visible mold with baby-safe products (like diluted hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar), and check for leaks or moisture buildup that could cause issues down the road.
Prep the baby zones
These are the areas where your baby will reside every day, multiple times a day. As such, they deserve a bit of extra attention:
- Nursery: Clean the crib, mattress, changing table, and storage bins. Wash all baby linens, clothes, and soft toys using fragrance- and dye-free laundry detergent.
- Feeding areas: Sanitize bottle parts, breast pump equipment, and pacifiers. Set up a drying station for after washing.
- Living room: Clear clutter, vacuum rugs, and wipe down surfaces where your baby might lie or roll.
- Car: Don’t forget to vacuum and wipe down your car’s interior, especially the backseat and car seat.
Don’t stress over perfection
Babies don’t need perfection – they need love, attention, and a reasonably clean space to thrive. So don’t put all that extra pressure on yourself. Simply focus on the essentials and create cleaning routines that you can manage. Not only will doing so take a massive load off your shoulders, but it will also give you more time to dedicate to your little bundle of joy – which is all that really matters.
How can I find top cleaners near me in Napa, CA?
If you want to make the most of your cleaning services – and your free time – turning to Valencia Pro Cleaning is your best choice. Whether you’re prepping your home for a big event or a standard, everyday upkeep, we can help you discover cleaners in the North Bay area best suited for your needs. Reach out to us today!
