Attention, troops! Thanksgiving is full of delicious meals, family gatherings, and shared joy. But once the feast is over, you’re often left with a battlefield of dishes, spills, and crumbs. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! With these smart, simple tips—plus some DIY solutions and eco-friendly product recommendations—you can have your home sparkling again in no time.
1. Start with the Dishes: Get Them Out of the Way First
The sight of an overflowing sink can feel like a disaster zone, but knocking out the dishes first makes the rest of the clean-up mission easier.
• DIY Home Solution:
• Baking Soda for Stubborn Grease: Add a sprinkle of baking soda to your dishwater for handwashing.
• Why it works: Baking soda naturally cuts through grease and helps lift stuck-on food without harsh chemicals.
• Eco-Friendly Product Alternative:
• Made with plant-based ingredients, it’s tough on grease but gentle on hands.
• Why it’s great: Biodegradable and free from sulfates, parabens, and synthetic chemicals.
Bonus Tip: If you have a dishwasher, run it while enjoying dessert! The first load will be done by the time you’re ready to clean the rest.
2. Wipe Down Surfaces & High-Traffic Areas
With all the action during Thanksgiving, tables, countertops, and high-traffic areas need attention.
• DIY Home Solution:
• Vinegar & Lemon Spray: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, with a few drops of lemon essential oil for a fresh scent. Spray and wipe with a microfiber cloth.
• Why it works: Vinegar cuts through grease while lemon disinfects and adds a pleasant scent.
• Eco-Friendly Product Alternative:
Seventh Generation All-Purpose Cleaner
• Plant-based, it’s safe for most surfaces and tough on post-Thanksgiving messes.
• Why it’s great: Leaves surfaces clean without harmful residue and has a light scent.
3. Sweep, Vacuum & Mop the Floors
Crumbs and spills are inevitable, so give the floors some attention.
• DIY Home Solution:
• Baking Soda for Carpet Freshening: Sprinkle baking soda on carpets before vacuuming. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum.
• Why it works: Absorbs lingering odors naturally.
• Eco-Friendly Product Alternative:
Better Life Natural Floor Cleaner
• Safe for hardwood, tile, or laminate floors, leaving them streak-free.
• Why it’s great: Biodegradable and free from synthetic fragrances, making it a smart choice for families with kids and pets.
4. Tackle Leftover Food Stains & Spills
Act quickly to handle food stains, especially from cranberry sauce or gravy.
• DIY Home Solution:
• Club Soda for Stains: Pour club soda onto fresh food stains and blot with a clean cloth.
• Why it works: Carbonation lifts stains, making it effective on fabrics and carpets.
• Eco-Friendly Product Alternative:
Biokleen Bac-Out Stain Remover
• Uses live enzymes to break down organic stains like food and drink spills.
• Why it’s great: Plant-based, non-toxic, and powerful on stubborn stains.
5. Freshen Up the Air: Eliminate Lingering Food Smells
After hours of cooking, lingering smells can make your home less inviting.
• DIY Home Solution:
• Simmering Potpourri: Simmer a pot of water with cinnamon sticks, orange peels, and cloves.
• Why it works: Naturally releases a warm, holiday scent without artificial sprays.
• Eco-Friendly Product Alternative:
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Room Freshener
• Made with essential oils, available in scents like peppermint and pine.
• Why it’s great: Provides a quick, eco-friendly air refresh.
6. Final Touch: Shine Up the Silverware
If you used special silverware or serving dishes, give them some extra care.
• DIY Home Solution:
• Baking Soda & Aluminum Foil: Line your sink with aluminum foil, fill it with hot water, and add baking soda. Soak silverware for a few minutes.
• Why it works: The reaction lifts tarnish, making silver shine without harsh polishes.
• Eco-Friendly Product Alternative:
• Gently removes tarnish and leaves a protective coating.
• Why it’s great: Non-toxic and leaves silver sparkling.
Need Help With Your Post-Thanksgiving Clean-Up?
Feeling overwhelmed by the holiday mess? Let The Cleanery Co. handle it! Schedule a post-Thanksgiving clean-up, and we’ll have your home back to parade-ready condition in no time.
Conclusion
Cleaning up after Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With these DIY tips and eco-friendly products, you can restore your home to its sparkling glory in no time. Whether you choose the DIY route or opt for sustainable products, you’ll have your home back in shape and ready for the next holiday.
Affiliate Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission when you purchase products through these links, at no additional cost to you. All products recommended are eco-friendly and designed to help you clean your home safely and effectively.