Prepare well for renovation to reduce cleaning afterward
The better you protect the space from dust and debris, the easier it will be to clean later. Move furniture and equipment to a safe place, and cover what remains with protective plastic sheets. Use them as well to separate the renovated area from the clean part of the house. At the entrance to the renovation zone, place a doormat or damp cloth to wipe dusty or paint-covered shoes. Remember to clean up daily after renovation works if possible — it also improves safety.
It's also crucial to protect the floors during preparation. It’s not just about dirt, but also preventing permanent damage. If you plan to install floor panels, do it as the final stage of the renovation. If you’re keeping the same floor, protect it from the beginning. You can use thick plastic sheets, cardboard, or protective felt. Plain plastic tears easily and may allow accidental scratches. Protective felt is more expensive but reusable and much more convenient — better for larger renovations.
How to clean up after renovation? Two main rules
When it's time to plan how to clean up after renovation, keep in mind two key rules that will speed up the process:
1. Dry cleaning first, wet cleaning later
First, remove debris, then vacuum thoroughly, and only after that wash with water. This is the correct order for cleaning after renovation. For dry cleaning, an industrial vacuum cleaner works best — it removes dust, debris, and even small rubble. At home, you can use a regular broom and dustpan, but for major renovation works, renting an industrial vacuum is worth it.
2. Top to bottom
Start from the ceiling and finish with the floor. Always clean from the highest elements to avoid dust or debris falling on areas you've already cleaned. This applies to both vacuuming and wet cleaning. Vacuum the ceiling, walls, and all nooks before moving to the floors.
How to clean floor panels after renovation
Cleaning floor panels after renovation is similar to regular cleaning — provided they were properly protected. Vacuum thoroughly, paying special attention to dust and debris in the so-called V-grooves. Then use a well-wrung, damp mop and professional cleaning liquid designed for floor panels. Avoid products containing wax. After renovation, you may need to repeat cleaning due to lingering dust settling later.
If protection wasn’t enough to prevent paint stains, gently soak them with warm water and cleaning liquid before wiping. Never scrape them with sharp or metal objects that could leave scratches or damage the floor's surface.
