Traveling is exciting—whether it’s a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, the thrill of exploring new places is unmatched. But before you zip up your suitcase and head out the door, there’s one crucial step many people overlook: cleaning.
A clean home before traveling ensures you return to a fresh, welcoming space rather than a messy, stressful one. Plus, it prevents unpleasant surprises like moldy dishes or funky smells. To help you prepare, here are six things you should always clean before you travel.
1. Your Fridge – Avoid Coming Home to a Science Experiment
Nothing ruins post-vacation bliss like opening your fridge to the stench of spoiled food. Before you leave:
✔ Toss perishables – Milk, leftovers, and anything that will expire while you’re gone should go.
✔ Wipe down shelves – A quick clean prevents sticky spills from hardening.
✔ Leave an open box of baking soda – This absorbs odors, keeping your fridge fresh.
✔ Set reminders – If you have food that will expire soon after you return, note it so you can replace it.
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling for a long time, consider unplugging your fridge (after emptying it completely) to save energy.
2. Your Trash Cans – Don’t Let Odors Linger
Even if you take out the trash before leaving, lingering smells can attract pests or create a nasty welcome when you return.
✔ Empty all bins – Kitchen, bathroom, bedroom—everywhere!
✔ Wash with soap and water – A quick scrub removes residue and bacteria.
✔ Sprinkle baking soda – Helps neutralize any remaining odors.
✔ Use fresh liners – Coming home to clean trash bags feels so much better.
Bonus: If you’re leaving for an extended period, ask a neighbor or friend to take out your trash bins on collection day.
3. Your Sheets & Towels – Fresh Bed = Happy Return
After a long flight or road trip, the last thing you want is to collapse onto musty sheets.
✔ Wash bedding – Clean sheets and pillowcases ensure a cozy return.
✔ Hang towels to dry – Avoid mildew by ensuring they’re completely dry before leaving.
✔ Consider a mattress spray – A light spritz of linen spray keeps your room smelling fresh.
Pro Tip: If you’re traveling in winter, flip your mattress and air out your pillows for extra freshness.
4. Your Sink & Garbage Disposal – Prevent Nasty Surprises
Leftover food particles in the sink or disposal can lead to foul smells—or worse, fruit flies.
✔ Run the disposal with ice & citrus – Cleans blades and deodorizes.
✔ Scrub the sink – Use baking soda and vinegar for a deep clean.
✔ Check for leaks – A small drip can turn into a big problem while you’re away.
Bonus: Pour a little cooking oil down the drain to prevent evaporation and sewer smells.
5. Your Laundry – No One Wants Moldy Clothes Waiting
That half-full hamper might not seem urgent, but damp clothes can develop mildew fast.
✔ Wash all dirty clothes – Don’t leave sweaty gym clothes or wet towels sitting.
✔ Empty the lint trap – Reduces fire risk and improves dryer efficiency.
✔ Leave the washer door open – Prevents mold growth inside the machine.
Pro Tip: If you have time, change and wash your travel clothes as soon as you get home—it helps reset your routine.
6. Your Floors – Come Home to a Spotless Space
Walking into a clean, vacuumed home after a trip feels amazing.
✔ Sweep & mop hard floors – Removes crumbs and prevents pests.
✔ Vacuum carpets & rugs – Pick up dust, pet hair, and debris.
✔ Place doormats strategically – Reduces dirt tracked in when you return.
Bonus: If you have pets, a last-minute vacuum ensures fur doesn’t pile up while you’re gone.
Final Thoughts: A Clean Home Awaits You
Taking a little extra time to clean before traveling pays off immensely. You’ll avoid coming home to unpleasant smells, pests, or messes—and instead, enjoy that post-vacation glow in a fresh, relaxing space.
Do you have any pre-travel cleaning rituals? Share your tips in the comments!
