Deep Cleaning Before a Long Holiday
Leaving an Ontario home for an extended period — a two-week vacation, a winter snowbird trip south, or an extended holiday — is a strong argument for a thorough clean before departure. A cleaned home holds better during absence and is vastly more pleasant to return to.
Why Clean Before Leaving?
Kitchen: Any food waste, organic matter, or moisture in the kitchen will develop into a serious odour and potentially a pest problem during a two-week absence. Empty the refrigerator of all perishables if leaving for more than a week. Clean the interior of the refrigerator and leave it running (or off with the door propped open slightly). Empty garbage bins completely, wipe them clean, and run the dishwasher empty before leaving.
Bathroom: Standing water in drains and toilet bowls can allow drain flies and other insects to breed in a closed-up home during summer. Run all faucets briefly before leaving, clean the toilet, and add a cup of bleach to slow toilet drain activity.
Countertops and surfaces: Any crumbs, food residue, or standing moisture on surfaces will attract insects (particularly ants in Ontario summer) within days. Wipe all food-contact surfaces thoroughly before departure.
Return-Home Priorities
Even with a pre-departure clean, an Ontario home left for two or more weeks in summer will need attention on return — dust settles, humidity affects surfaces, and any items missed will have amplified. Plan for a shorter post-return clean rather than assuming the home will be in perfect condition on arrival.