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As a general rule, you should clean your oven at least every three months, though this depends on how often you use it and the amount of residue buildup. A clear sign that your oven needs cleaning is if you notice smoke or a burning smell during use. Many ovens have a self-cleaning cycle, which heats the oven to an extreme temperature. If you use this feature, stay home while it runs and consider ventilating the room, as it can create smoke. For manual cleaning, you can make a paste of baking soda and water or use white vinegar before resorting to harsher, store-bought oven cleaners.

If you avoid deep cleaning, it can lead to a slew of issues for your health and home. Mold and mildew can grow in damp areas of the home, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms, which can cause allergic reactions and even structural damage to your house. A buildup of grime and dirt can allow bacteria and germs to thrive. A dirty home can also attract pests such as cockroaches, ants, and rodents.

Without regular proactive maintenance, your home and the things in it will wear out, break, or otherwise deteriorate much faster than they would with routine maintenance. Regular home maintenance also helps to prevent major problems down the road. For example, regular gutter cleaning will help avoid roof and foundation problems caused by pooling water and improper drainage. 

If you’re hiring someone to clean an empty and tidy house before you move in, there’s little prep work to do. Make sure to discuss your goals with the cleaning service, arrange entry to the house, and communicate any problem areas or special requests. If you’ve already moved into the house, or if it’s messy, it’s best to complete the following tasks before the cleaners arrive:

• Declutter things like clothes, toys, or cardboard boxes

• Do the dishes

• Put fragile items in a safe spot where they can’t be accidentally broken

• Keep pets away from cleaning areas