Experts reveal the 7 things you shouldn't bother cleaning during a remodel

Remodeling your home can be an exciting but messy process. With dust, debris, and frequent foot traffic, it’s tempting to clean up as you go. However, are some areas of your home better left untouched until the project is finished?

Our cleaning and home renovation experts are here to explain all. From walls to windows, our pros reveal the seven things you shouldn’t bother cleaning during a remodel.

So make the most of your smart home cleaning tools by using them at the right time for your home renovation...

1. Light fixtures

Cleaning your light fixtures before planning a home addition is complete can be hard work that’s very quickly undone.

Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, ‘While it might seem like a good idea to keep light fixtures and ceiling fans clean during a remodel, it's actually a wasted effort. Dust and debris from construction will constantly settle on these surfaces, making it nearly impossible to keep them clean.

‘Instead, cover light fixtures and ceiling fans with plastic sheeting to prevent them from becoming overly dusty. Save the deep cleaning for when the remodel is complete.’

Toner recommends the 3M Hand-Masker M3000 from Amazon, adding, ‘This product is excellent for covering fixtures, windows, and furniture to protect them from dust and paint splatters. The masking film clings to surfaces, making it easy to apply and remove, and it helps reduce the amount of cleaning needed after the remodel.’

2. Baseboards

Baseboards are another area that will inevitably collect dust during a remodel. Contractors, tools, and building materials will also brush against them, leaving behind scuffs and grime.

Toner says, ‘Baseboards and trim tend to collect a lot of dust and debris during a remodel, especially if there is drywall sanding, painting, or flooring work being done. Any attempt to clean them during the process is likely to be undone almost immediately.

‘Wait until the end of the remodel instead to clean the baseboards and trim. If they are particularly dirty, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders after the dust has settled.’

Toner recommends using microfiber dusting cloths followed by a cleaning solution of diluted white vinegar, adding, ‘These cloths are ideal for post-remodel dusting as they capture fine particles without spreading them around. They can be used dry for light dusting or dampened with vinegar and water for a deeper clean, especially on baseboards and trim after the remodel is finished.’

3. Windows

Windows can get extremely dirty during a remodel, especially if they’re exposed to sawdust, paint splatters, or general debris. Cleaning windows without streaks can be particularly difficult until the construction team is long gone.

Toner says, ‘Windows and screens are magnets for dust and debris during a remodel. Cleaning them during the project is likely to be a futile effort, as they will become dirty again quickly.

‘Instead, cover windows with plastic to minimize dust accumulation, and plan to clean them thoroughly once the remodel is complete. Post-construction cleaning of windows – long after the dust has gone – will yield better results.’

4. Floors

Your floors are bound to take a beating during a remodel. Contractors will be walking in and out, and materials will be moved around, inevitably leading to dust and debris.

Other than a quick sweep or vacuum at the end of each day, it’s probably best to save the proper vacuuming, mopping, and polishing until the project’s conclusion.

Jon Christensen, CEO of Bidmii, which connects home renovators with contractors, says, ‘No matter how often you clean the floors during a remodel, they'll inevitably get dirty again. Especially in areas with heavy foot traffic or ongoing work, it’s best to hold off on cleaning until all the work is done.’

Christensen recommends this Ram Board Temporary Floor Protection from Amazon. He says, ‘Ideal for protecting floors during a remodel, Ram Board is a durable, temporary floor covering that can handle heavy foot traffic and equipment. It’s a solid investment to keep your floors intact.’

5. Walls

While it might be tempting to clean your walls if they look dusty, it’s best to wait until after the remodel is done.

Christensen says, ‘Like windows and floors, walls can accumulate dust and debris during a remodel, as well as marks from hands or tools.

'Avoid the temptation to clean them until after the remodel is complete, especially if you plan to repaint or refinish them afterward. Dusting too early can also prove unhelpful if it just redistributes the mess.’

Wait instead until the work is complete to wipe down the walls and touch up any areas that need repainting.

6. Electrical outlets

Electrical outlets often gather dust and debris during a remodel. However, attempting to clean them during the process is not only unnecessary but can also be hazardous. Wait until the project is finished, then gently vacuum or wipe them down with a dry cloth.

It can also be worthwhile investing in protective covers to shield your outlets and switches during construction. These Enerlites Blank Cover Wall Plates from Amazon will prevent filth and dirt from entering, allowing for an easier final clean.

7. Appliances

If your remodel involves work in the kitchen or laundry room, don’t bother cleaning your appliances until the end. Dust and debris can settle into crevices and cause you to redo the job.

The exception here is if you need to continue using appliances regularly. In this case, regularly vacuum the surface, followed by a wipe with vinegar solution and a microfiber cloth.

Toner says, ‘If you’re needing to vacuum, finding a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter is crucial both during and after a remodel to capture fine dust particles that regular vacuums might recirculate.’

The Shark AZ3002 Stratos Upright Vacuum is among those featured in our 5 best upright vacuums of 2024 buying guide, and comes with high-quality HEPA filtration.

So there you have it – the 7 things you shouldn't bother cleaning during a remodel. While it might be tempting to clean as you go, holding off on certain tasks will save you time and effort.

Toner adds, 'Ultimately, you'll achieve a more effective and last clean by waiting until the dust has settled – literally and metaphorically!'

Next, check out these expensive home renovation mistakes to avoid.