The Ultimate Home Maintenance Checklist by Frontdoor

Maintains cleanliness and prevents slips. Sweep for debris and mop with the right cleaner. If there's damage or wear to flooring, get professional advice for deep cleaning or repairs.

Clean the kitchen, including mopping the floors, countertops and major kitchen appliances.

Clean out the refrigerator getting rid of old food and uneaten leftovers to avoid contamination and illness.

Clean the bedroom overall, replacing dirty sheets, pillowcases and towels. Thinning fabric, fading colors, or loss of comfort suggest it’s time for an update.

Keeping surfaces clean and disinfected is crucial for preventing germs and mold. Use disinfectant cleaners on countertops, toilets, and fixtures. For persistent stains or damaged surfaces, seek deep cleaning services or advice on mold issues.

Dusting with a microfiber cloth removes allergens and maintains furniture. Notable wear or damage might require deep cleaning or restoration services.

Adjust the thermostat to ensure that you're running it at the ideal temperature, given the weather and personal variables of each week.

Vacuum the house thoroughly using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to get rid of tiny particles.

Charge your wireless security cameras and doorbell if they are not hard-wired. Make sure they are functioning properly.

Clean out litter boxes and wash/refresh pet bowls.

Wipe down drawers, shelves and compartments with warm, soapy water.

Take out the racks and silverware slot from the dishwasher, let them soak in warm, soapy water and rinse, place back into dishwasher, then clean dishwasher by running it on a hot water cycle with a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack.

Wipe off all grease and food build ups in microwave, toaster and coffee maker.

Check the filters in the refrigerator, ice maker or water filtration system (frequency will depend on the manufacturer and model).

Keeping floors clean reduces allergens and maintains the condition of your flooring. If you notice discoloration or damage, consider professional deep cleaning or floor repairs.

Maintaining cleanliness and removing potential pests involves moving furniture as needed and vacuuming or sweeping thoroughly. Damage to furniture or flooring signals it's time for a more thorough cleaning or pest control measures.

Natural light and window functionality are maximized by keeping glass surfaces and treatments clean. If you notice damage to window treatments or seal failures, it may be time for repairs or replacements.

Tackling detergent buildup and lint is crucial for preventing odors and fire hazards. Clean your appliances with specialized cleaners or home solutions. If you notice inefficiency or odd noise, it's wise to consult a repair service.

A clean sink prevents clogs and maintains hygiene. A mild cleaner or a baking soda and vinegar mixture can be used to scrub and rinse the sink. Persistent stains or damage should prompt a call to plumbing services.

Testing GFCI outlets ensures safety from electrical shocks in wet areas. If an outlet fails to reset or is non-responsive, it's time to consider outlet replacement.

Ensuring electrical safety and reducing hazards involves checking for frayed wires and overloaded outlets. Discoloration or exposed wiring require immediate electrical repairs or consultations.

Move all furniture, rugs and beds, and vacuum the floors underneath. Vacuum all upholstery, including sofas and chairs.

Clean all windows, mirrors, and glass picture frames with a window cleaner.

Inspect for signs of moisture or mold around walls, ceilings, and appliances. Visible mold or water stains warrant professional mold remediation or repair for leaks.

Flipping or rotating your mattress every few months promotes even wear and prolongs its life. If you notice sagging, discomfort, or visible wear, consider consulting a professional for advice on mattress care or replacement.

Maximizing space and maintaining organization is achieved by sorting items, donating what’s unnecessary, and organizing the remaining items efficiently. If you're running out of space or the storage solutions are damaged, it might be time to seek custom closet solutions or help with decluttering.

Reducing allergens and maintaining cleanliness in these less-frequented spaces requires using a vacuum with a HEPA filter and dusting with a microfiber cloth. For extensive cleaning needs or mold issues, professional services may be necessary.

To prevent damage and contamination, look for signs of pests like droppings, nests, or structural damage. Evidence of pests warrants an extermination service or sealing potential entry points to prevent further infestation.

This is very important to help the dryer run more efficiently and to avoid a potential fire hazard.

An efficiently running HVAC system is crucial for comfort and energy savings. Replace filters and schedule a professional check-up to clean and service the system. Unusual noises or a drop in efficiency indicate that expert servicing is needed.

Each new season brings the potential for pest infestation. Look for signs and seal entry points to prevent infestation. Droppings or damage from pests indicate the need for extermination services or pest control measures.

Checking and replacing worn weather stripping enhances energy efficiency and draft prevention. Visible wear or an increase in energy bills suggests it’s time for new weather stripping. Contact a professional for proper installation if needed.

Remove glass storm windows and install screens (in the summer).

To prevent hose damage from freezing temperatures, drain and store them properly. If you find cracks or leaks come spring, consider replacing them. Also, repair any outdoor faucets that may have been damaged.

Proper end-of-season care ensures the sprinkler system's optimal operation and prevents damage. After inspection and draining, shut off the water supply. Visible damage or subpar performance requires professional servicing or repairs.

Inspect the exterior of your home and roof for cracks or structural damage. If found you should immediately contact a professional for a detailed inspection and evaluation of the damage.

Pressure wash the driveway and exterior surfaces to remove the accumulated dirt, mold and debris. Be careful not to use a setting too high which can damage surfaces. See setting recommends in the user manual of your pressure washer.

If you have a lawn, mow as needed and do some light weeding (spring and summer months).

Shovel snow and sprinkle salt on stairs and walkways (winter months).

Blow leaves off the walkway, sidewalk, driveway, and lawn as needed (fall months).

Remove mineral buildup for proper water flow by soaking in vinegar overnight, then rinse and clean. Low water pressure or leaks suggest the need for fixture replacement or addressing plumbing issues.

Maintain effective moisture and odor removal by cleaning or replacing the fan filter and cleaning fan blades. Noisy operation or decreased efficiency indicates the need for electrical assistance or fan replacement.

Ensure water efficiency and prolong fixture life by descaling with a solution or vinegar, then scrubbing gently and rinsing. Fixture replacement may be necessary if constant dripping or poor water flow persists.

Maximize natural light and window function by cleaning glass surfaces and dusting or washing blinds or curtains. If there's damage to window treatments or seal failures, consider window repairs or treatment replacement.

Prevent leaks and water damage by checking hoses for cracks, bulges, or leaks. Visible damage or leakage requires hose replacement or professional advice if you're unsure about the condition.

Avoid fire hazards and maintain dryer efficiency by removing lint from the filter before or after each load. A torn or damaged lint filter necessitates immediate replacement.

Test the sump pump's functionality by pouring water into the pit until it activates to prevent flooding. Non-activation or unusual noises call for pump repair or replacement.

Ensure proper airflow and drainage by removing debris from vents and gutters. Clogged or damaged components should be addressed with gutter repair or professional cleaning.

Prevent water damage and mold by looking for water intrusion signs, like stains on the floor or insulation. Water stains or damp insulation necessitate roof repairs or waterproofing services.

Check for smooth operation and lubricate moving parts to extend the door's life. Noisy operation or jerky movements require professional adjustment or repair.

Ensure the auto-reverse feature and sensors function correctly by testing and cleaning them. A non-responsive opener or malfunctioning auto-reverse should be professionally repaired or replaced.

Prevent electrical hazards by checking for damaged cords and ensuring outlets aren't overloaded. Damaged cords or malfunctioning outlets need electrical repairs or new outlet installations.

Prevent water damage by ensuring gutters are clear of debris and water flows freely. Sagging, holes, or detached gutters require professional gutter repair, replacement, or guard installation.

Ensure early fire warning by pressing the test button and cleaning with an air duster; replace batteries as needed. Non-responsiveness or constant beeping warrants detector replacement or professional advice.

Effective ventilation and fire risk reduction start with clean range hood filters. Remove, soak in degreaser, rinse, and dry before replacing. If there's permanent damage or excessive grease buildup, investigate further to ensure your range hood functions properly.

Prevent clogs and odors by regularly running your garbage disposal with ice cubes and salt or vinegar, and avoid hard materials. Persistent odors or poor performance indicate a need for professional troubleshooting.

Protect your bathroom from water damage and mold by checking and sealing grout and caulking as needed. Cracking, peeling, or mold suggests it's time for more extensive repairs or regrouting.

Cleaning your dryer vent prevents fire hazards and boosts efficiency. Disconnect and clean using a vent brush kit or vacuum. Excessive lint buildup or vent hose damage should prompt a professional inspection.

Keeping garage ventilation clear prevents moisture buildup and protects stored items. If vents are blocked or humidity levels are high, consider new ventilation solutions.

Pressure washing siding and walkways maintains your home's appearance and removes dirt and mildew. Persistent stains or siding damage might require professional cleaning or repairs.

Regular roof inspections prevent leaks and structural damage. Look for issues with shingles or flashing and address any leaks or visible damage immediately, potentially with a professional roofer.

Curb appeal and plant health are supported by trimming, mowing, fertilizing, and mulching. Overgrown or dead vegetation calls for landscaping projects or professional tree removal.

To ensure the safety and longevity of your deck or patio, check for loose boards or railings and clean and seal as necessary. Signs of rot, instability, or weathering should lead to repairs, sealing, or replacement.

AC unit efficiency and lifespan are crucial for comfort. Clean or replace filters, and clean coils. If you notice poor performance or unusual noises, it's time for professional servicing or replacement.

Security and property boundary aesthetics are maintained by checking for and repairing fencing damage. Loose, damaged, or missing panels should be addressed with repairs or installations.

Optimal lighting and energy efficiency are achieved by keeping fixtures clean and bulbs updated. If you encounter flickering lights or outdated fixtures, consider seeking help for electrical issues or new installations.

Maximizing space and minimizing fire hazards can be accomplished by sorting, donating, or disposing of unnecessary items. For help with large-scale decluttering or organizing systems, seek expert advice.

Once a year is a great time to plan for home maintenance items and tasks you want to consider. Things like a home generator, new HVAC system, bathroom remodel, new home systems or appliances, landscaping, etc. Now’s the time to make a plan, research costs, and budget accordingly.

Maintaining efficiency and reliability in your home means assessing the performance of major appliances and considering updates for better features. High energy bills or frequent repairs indicate it's time to select and install new appliances.

A functional water heater is key for efficiency and preventing leaks. Drain the tank, disconnect power, remove the old heater, and follow the manufacturer's instructions to install a new unit. Rusty water, noise, or leaks signal the need for a replacement. Seek professional help for installation or advice on the correct model.

To prevent further deterioration and ensure safety, fill cracks, reseal surfaces, or replace sections as needed. Look out for cracks, potholes, or uneven surfaces that may require major repairs or resurfacing.

Protect your home's wooden exteriors from weathering and decay by prepping the surface, applying primer, and then paint or sealant. If you notice peeling paint or wood rot, you need a more extensive preparation or painting project.