When was the last time you lifted your refrigerator to check what’s hiding underneath? If the answer is “never” or “I don’t want to think about it,” you’re not alone. Most Minnetonka homeowners understand the basics of keeping house—weekly vacuuming, bathroom scrubbing, kitchen countertop wiping—but the difference between regular cleaning and deep cleaning often gets overlooked until spring arrives or houseguests are on their way.
At MJM Cleaning Service, we’ve helped thousands of Minnetonka families understand when surface-level maintenance isn’t enough and when it’s time to dig deeper. After a decade of cleaning homes around Lake Minnetonka and the surrounding neighborhoods, we’ve learned that timing your cleaning approach to Minnesota’s distinct seasons can save you time, protect your health, and extend your home’s lifespan.
Let’s break down what your home really needs and when.
Understanding the Difference: Regular vs. Deep Cleaning
Regular cleaning focuses on maintaining day-to-day livability. Think of it as preventative care—the weekly or bi-weekly tasks that keep visible surfaces clean and hygienic. This includes vacuuming floors, wiping down counters, cleaning toilets, dusting furniture, and taking out trash.
Deep cleaning goes far beyond surface maintenance. It’s the intensive approach that targets accumulated grime, hidden bacteria, and those forgotten spaces that regular cleaning misses. Deep cleaning tackles baseboards, inside appliances, light fixtures, vents, and areas under furniture.
The key difference? Regular cleaning maintains your current level of cleanliness, while deep cleaning resets it.
What Regular Cleaning Covers in Your Minnetonka Home
Your weekly or bi-weekly regular cleaning routine should include:
- Kitchen: Counter and appliance surface cleaning, sink sanitizing, stovetop wiping, floor mopping
- Bathrooms: Toilet cleaning, shower/tub wiping, mirror cleaning, floor mopping
- Living Areas: Vacuuming carpets, dusting furniture, organizing surfaces
- Bedrooms: Making beds, light dusting, floor care
- General: Trash removal, light switch wiping, quick decluttering
This maintenance approach works well for busy families and keeps your home guest-ready on short notice.
When Deep Cleaning Becomes Essential
Deep cleaning addresses what regular cleaning leaves behind:
- Behind and under appliances: Refrigerator coils, stove grime, dishwasher filters
- Detailed bathroom work: Grout scrubbing, shower door descaling, vent cleaning
- Overlooked areas: Ceiling fans, light fixtures, window tracks, baseboards
- Fabric and upholstery: Carpet deep-cleaning, curtain washing, cushion refreshing
- Inside spaces: Cabinet interiors, pantry deep-clean, closet organization
Seasonal Deep Cleaning Schedule for Minnetonka
Minnesota’s climate creates specific cleaning challenges that change throughout the year. Here’s when your home needs extra attention:
Spring Deep Clean (March–April)
After months of closed windows and winter grime, spring is prime time for a comprehensive reset.
Priority areas:
- Windows and window treatments: Remove winter buildup and prepare for pollen season
- HVAC system: Clean vents and replace filters after heavy furnace use
- Carpet deep cleaning: Extract embedded salt, sand, and winter debris
- Basement and storage areas: Address any moisture issues from snow melt
Why spring matters: Pollen counts spike in Minnesota during late spring. Deep cleaning before allergy season helps reduce indoor allergens.
Summer Maintenance (June–August)
Summer’s high humidity and increased outdoor activity create different challenges.
Focus areas:
- Bathroom deep sanitizing: Combat humidity-related mold and mildew
- Kitchen appliance interiors: Deep-clean refrigerators and ovens used heavily for entertaining
- Outdoor cleaning prep: Pressure wash entryways and clean stored outdoor furniture
Fall Preparation (September–October)
Fall deep cleaning prepares your home for months of closed-window living.
Essential tasks:
- HVAC preparation: Clean ducts and vents before heating season begins
- Moisture control: Deep-clean bathrooms and check for drafts
- Holiday prep: Deep-clean guest areas and entertaining spaces
Winter Spot Cleaning (December–February)
Winter isn’t ideal for major deep cleaning, but specific areas need attention.
Target areas:
- Entryways: Weekly deep cleaning to manage salt and slush
- Air quality: Extra attention to dusting and air purifier maintenance
- High-touch surfaces: Increased sanitizing during cold/flu season
How Often Should You Deep Clean?
The frequency depends on several factors unique to your household:
Every 3–6 months:
- Homes with pets or family members with allergies
- High-traffic households with children
- Homes near busy roads (more dust accumulation)
Every 6–12 months:
- Adult-only households with minimal clutter
- Homes with good regular cleaning routines
- Newer homes with less wear
Seasonal triggers for immediate deep cleaning:
- Before and after hosting events
- After illness in the household
- Following home repairs or renovations
- When moving in or preparing to sell
DIY vs. Professional Deep Cleaning
When to DIY:
- You have the time (deep cleaning takes 6–12 hours for average homes)
- You own or can rent specialized equipment (carpet cleaners, steam mops)
- You’re comfortable moving heavy furniture and appliances
When to hire professionals:
- You lack time for thorough deep cleaning
- Your home has specific challenges (pet odors, stubborn stains, mold concerns)
- You want guaranteed results without the physical strain
- You need specialized equipment and eco-friendly products
Signs Your Minnetonka Home Needs Deep Cleaning Now
Don’t wait for your scheduled seasonal clean if you notice:
- Persistent odors that regular cleaning doesn’t eliminate
- Increased allergy symptoms among household members
- Visible buildup in grout, around fixtures, or in corners
- Carpet stains that keep returning after spot cleaning
- Dusty air vents or reduced HVAC efficiency
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
The decision between regular maintenance and deep cleaning isn’t either/or—it’s both, strategically timed. Regular cleaning maintains your daily comfort, while seasonal deep cleaning protects your investment and health.
For most Minnetonka homes, the ideal schedule combines:
- Bi-weekly regular cleaning year-round
- Quarterly deep cleaning aligned with seasonal changes
- Targeted deep cleaning for specific challenges (post-holiday cleanup, pre-guest preparation)
Ready to create a cleaning schedule that works for your Minnetonka home? Contact MJM Cleaning Service for a free consultation. We’ll assess your home’s specific needs and craft a customized plan that balances regular maintenance with seasonal deep cleaning—keeping your space healthy, comfortable, and guest-ready all year long.
