Prepare Your Home for Vacation 

Ironically, getting ready to go on vacation can be really stressful. Aside from figuring out how not to overpack, Prescott Maid to Order offers these suggestions to help Prescott homeowners leave the house relaxed, worry-free and ready to have some fun.

Clean

No one ever wants to come home from a beautiful, relaxing and fun vacation to a mess. A dirty house is no one’s idea of “welcome home.” It’s not necessary to perform a spring-cleaning ritual before you leave, but every room should be addressed. Before you leave, clean sinks and toilets, vacuum – and definitely clean out the fridge and toss out any food that could spoil.

Take Out the Trash

Of course taking out the trash is also a part of cleaning, but sometimes “out of sight is out of mind.” Make sure you don’t clean out the fridge only to leave spoiling food breeding in a dark can somewhere in your kitchen. Forgetting to take out the trash could mean returning home to ghastly odors and uninvited pests.

Double-Check the Washer/Dryer

In your last-minute efforts to get everything in order, don’t overlook the washer and dryer. Before you lock the door behind you, check to make sure you’re not leaving a load of wet clothes in the washer or dryer. Mildew is no one’s friend.

Check Fire Hazards

Don’t leave the house without unplugging electronics like your computer, router, TVs and any countertop appliances that don’t need to be on while you’re gone. Not only will you lower the risk of potential electrical fires, but you will also save money on energy costs.

Put Lights on Timers

Whether your home has a smart lighting system or not, one of the easiest steps to deter a break-in is by using lighting. Use your smart lighting app or plug-in timers throughout your home to vary the lighting every day you are away. Putting your lights on timers so that they turn off and turn on various times of the day will make it look like people are actually home.

Have a Friend Keep an Eye Out

Let a trusted neighbor know when you’ll be gone and when you’re returning. Make sure they have your number and the number of an emergency contact. If they are willing, have them collect any packages that get delivered on your doorstep and pick up papers and ads left by your door. Items left too long by your door or in the driveway announce your absence.

A bonded and insured company like Maid to Order can be hired to check on your property for extended trips and come in prior to your return to do a “freshen up” clean.

With a little effort and a little planning, you can go on vacation confident that you have left your Prescott home safe and secure and ready for your return. If you would like, Prescott Maid to Order can help you get ready to relax and check cleaning off your list of things to do. QCBN

By Lucy Leyva

Lucy Leyva is the owner of Prescott Maid to Order.