If you're hosting Thanksgiving, you've got a lot to do to get ready. And while you might think it's the turkey and stuffing that makes you tired after the big feast, it might actually be all the cleanup. But don't worry, we're here to help.
If we've learned anything after years of hosting, it's that a little preparation can make holiday clean-up a whole lot easier. So don't wait until the last minute — that's a surefire way to end up a stressed-out host. You want to spend as much time as possible with friends and family, so here's how to plan ahead and enjoy the festivities too.
Check out our before and after Thanksgiving cleaning checklists, along with tips for tackling all kinds of surfaces and stains, so you've got everything covered. That way, when the turkey comes out of the oven, you can sit down, relax, and enjoy the holiday.
You've probably been going over your Thanksgiving menu in your head for weeks — dietary restrictions, recipes, grocery lists. But do you have a cleaning and house-prep plan? Without one, chances are you'll forget a few things and end up scrambling. Armed with these Thanksgiving checklists, you're leaving nothing to chance.
Before Thanksgiving Cleaning Checklist
The first thing to consider is whether you'll have overnight guests. If so, start on the guest room a few days ahead — the last thing you want is to be hunting for sheets and air mattresses on Thanksgiving morning. Plan to complete guest room tasks at least 3-5 days in advance.
IMPORTANT: If you're buying a frozen turkey, plan your thaw time now. A 12-16 lb. turkey takes 3-4 days in the fridge; a 16-20 lb. turkey takes 4-5 days.
Guest Room Prep:
- Tidy up your guest bedroom(s) and make sure they're ready for guests.
- Clean your bedroom carpets or bedroom floors.
- Freshen up guest room comforters or duvets.
- Make sure you have plenty of clean blankets and bedding available.
- Dust thoroughly.
- Inspect curtains or blinds to see if they need a thorough cleaning.
- Check to be sure you have enough pillows, and clean any that may need it.
- Give your guest bathroom a thorough scrubbing.
- Make sure you have enough hand towels and prepare toiletries for your guests.
Once your guest rooms are ready, turn your attention to the rest of the house. Any space where people will gather needs to be cleaned and decluttered. Spend extra time on the kitchen and dining room, since that's where most of the Thanksgiving activity happens. These tasks can be done 1-3 days in advance.
Living Room, Bathroom and Patio Prep:
- Walk through common areas where guests will mingle and declutter those spaces.
- Vacuum and dust common areas and be sure there's plenty of seating for guests (you may have to get those extra folding chairs out of storage).
- Spot clean your couch.
- If you plan to use your fireplace, be sure it's clean to avoid chimney fires.
- Scrub your main bathroom with Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner to cut through soap scum without leaving harsh fumes behind before guests arrive.
- Be sure the bathroom is stocked with towels, soap, and plenty of toilet paper.
- If people will be gathering outside (weather permitting), clean your deck and patio furniture.
- Clean any windows that look dirty or dingy.
- Clean out a convenient closet or entryway so guests have a place to store coats, umbrellas, and handbags.
Kitchen and Dining Room Prep:
- Make sure you have enough place settings and chairs for everyone coming to dinner.
- Wash any holiday-specific laundry such as tablecloths, placemats, and cloth napkins.
- Polish silver and clean any baking pans and serving dishes you will need.
- Clean and organize your kitchen and pantry.
- Take inventory to see if you have all the spices and condiments you will need.
- Clean out your fridge.
- Wipe down your dining room table and any extra tables you may need.
- Make a shopping list and go to the grocery store.
Day-Of Thanksgiving Hosting Checklist
The big day has finally arrived! Here's your day-of checklist to ensure everything goes smoothly when your guests walk in.
- Figure out cooking times for all dishes so you know when to put them in the oven.
- Chill beverages in the fridge.
- Be sure you have plenty of ice for drinks and an ice bucket.
- Empty all your trash cans.
- Do a last-minute wipe-down of any surfaces in your bathroom, living room, kitchen, and guest rooms.
- Set and decorate your Thanksgiving table.
- Set out glassware and drinks so that guests can help themselves.
After Thanksgiving Cleaning Checklist
First off, take a moment to congratulate yourself — you pulled off the ultimate Thanksgiving dinner without a hitch, and everyone had a great time. Now it's time to tackle the after-dinner cleanup.
- Pack away leftovers in take-home containers or food-storage bins.
- Collect all the plates, silverware, and glasses. Load and run the dishwasher.
- Hand wash any dishes that are too delicate or won't fit in the dishwasher.
- Spot treat any stains on holiday laundry, like tablecloths. Wash all your party linens and put them away for the next get-together.
- Clean your stovetop, kitchen countertops, and backsplash.
- Vacuum and clean the carpets and floors where any eating or food prep took place.
- Strip the guest room beds and wash any bedding, blankets, or comforters.
Then sit back, relax, pour yourself a drink, and raise a toast to a well-organized, stress-free Thanksgiving. You've earned it.
