As summer winds down and the back-to-school season approaches, the shift in energy is real. Between purchasing school supplies, adjusting sleep schedules, and prepping for busy weekday mornings, the transition can feel a bit overwhelming.
To help ease into the new rhythm with a calm mind and a clean slate, a home reset is essential. Tackling those forgotten spots around the house now means less stress once sports practices, homework, and early alarms take over.
Here is a simple, room-by-room checklist to get your home refreshed and ready for a fresh start!
1. The Deep Clean Hotspots
These are the areas that often get overlooked during regular weekly cleanings, but clearing them out makes the whole house feel lighter.
- Under & Behind the Fridge and Stove: Pull out the big appliances to sweep up hidden crumbs, dust, and lost items. While you are at it, change your fridge filter as well.
- Top of Cabinets: Wipe down dust and grease buildup that accumulates on top of kitchen cabinetry. I also like to line mine with paper towels so that clean up is a breeze every time.
- Deep Clean the Dishwasher & Washer: Run cleaning tablets or vinegar cycles through your appliances so they’re running efficiently for the heavy load of school laundry and daily dish cycles.
- Wash Rugs: Give entryway, kitchen, and bath rugs a thorough wash or deep clean to refresh high-traffic areas. And sometimes I just buy new ones 😝.
2. Decluttering & Closet Preps
Getting organized now prevents the morning panic of "I have nothing to wear!" or lost lunchboxes.
- Closet Size & Fit Check: Go through closets to try on clothes, sort out outgrown sizes, and see what back-to-school wardrobe staples are actually needed.
- Declutter & Donate: Purge shoe collections, kitchen counters, and bedroom clutter. Set aside gently used items to donate before buying anything new.
3. Maintenance & Detail Work
Fixing up small details creates a streamlined environment for the busy months ahead.
- Detail the Cars: Vacuum out summer sand and crumbs, wipe down dashboards, and restock car essentials (hand sanitizer, tissues, emergency snacks) for smooth morning drop-offs.
- Paint Scuffs: Touch up high-traffic walls, baseboards, and doorways with leftover paint to quickly refresh the house.
- Change Toilet Seats: A great rule of thumb is to replace toilet seats every 2 years for optimal hygiene and a fresh look.
- Clean the Garage: Organize sports gear, flatten summer pool toys, and make sure there’s clear space for backpacks, bikes, and entryways.
Take It One Day at a Time
Don't feel pressured to complete this entire list in a single weekend! Pick 1–2 items a day leading up to the first week of school. A little preparation now goes a long way toward creating a calm, functional home for the entire family.
What’s on your back-to-school reset list this year? Share your favorite tips in the comments below!
X, Dijana
Here is a manageable, step-by-step 7-day schedule to help you check off every item on your list without getting burned out before school starts:
🗓️ 7-Day Back-to-School Reset Plan
Day 1: The Kitchen Heavy Hitters
- Focus: Deep cleaning under/behind appliances and cabinets.
- Tasks:
- Pull out the fridge and stove to sweep, vacuum, and mop underneath.
- Grab a step stool and wipe down the top of kitchen cabinets.
- Toss a cleaning tablet into the dishwasher and run a deep clean cycle.
Day 2: Laundry & Appliance Refresh
- Focus: Soft surfaces and washer maintenance.
- Tasks:
- Run a maintenance/clean cycle on the washing machine.
- Gather all entryway, kitchen, and bath rugs to wash.
- Line-dry or tumble-dry rugs and place them back once fresh.
Day 3: Closet Fit Check & Declutter Part 1
- Focus: Clothing and bedroom prep.
- Tasks:
- Go through closets with the kids—have them try on clothes to check sizes/fits.
- Set aside outgrown clothes and start a bedroom donate/declutter box.
- Make a list of any essential wardrobe gaps to buy before school starts.
Day 4: Declutter Part 2 (Shoes & Kitchen)
- Focus: High-traffic clutter zones.
- Tasks:
- Sort through the shoe collection (donate shoes that no longer fit or are rarely worn).
- Clear out kitchen counters, pantries, or cabinets to make space for lunchboxes and quick breakfast prep.
- Bag up all accumulated donations and put them in the trunk of the car.
Day 5: Quick Home Repairs & Touch-Ups
- Focus: Maintenance details.
- Tasks:
- Swap out toilet seats (if due for their 2-year replacement).
- Grab leftover paint and a small brush to touch up wall and baseboard scuffs in hallways, entryways, and kids' rooms.
Day 6: Detail the Cars
- Focus: Vehicles ready for the school drop-off line.
- Tasks:
- Trash sweep and deep vacuum seats, floors, and trunk space.
- Wipe down dashboards, cup holders, and steering wheels.
- Restock car console essentials (hand sanitizer, tissues, emergency snacks).
Day 7: The Garage & Final Reset
- Focus: Storage and final prep.
- Tasks:
- Sweep out the garage, organize sports gear, and clear an easy path for backpacks and bikes.
- Drop off your donation boxes at a local donation center.
- Take a breath—you’re officially prepped and ready for the new school year!