The short answer
Before dinner, start with an empty dishwasher and sink. After dinner, food away first, then a full dishwasher load, then soak pans. Wipe counters and take out the trash before bed; leave floors for the morning.
From homes along Middlebury Road (Route 64) and Whittemore Road to the neighborhoods near Lake Quassapaug, many Middlebury families host the big holiday dinner. The meal is the highlight. The cleanup afterward can take the shine off the next morning unless you plan it.
Before dinner
- Empty the dishwasher and the sink.
- Line trash and recycling bins, with spare bags nearby.
- Set out containers for leftovers.
- Fill a basin with hot soapy water for pans.
After dinner
- Put food away within two hours.
- Scrape plates and run a full dishwasher load.
- Soak roasting pans and serving dishes.
- Hand-wash delicate glasses and china.
- Wipe counters and the stovetop.
- Take out trash and recycling.
Leave for the morning
Floors, the second dishwasher load, and the dining room can wait. Enjoy the holiday, then finish when you are ready.
Accept help
Give guests clear jobs: clearing, drying, or packing leftovers. It goes faster and nobody hovers.
After the holidays
A January reset clears out the season. See our holiday pack-up guide and our January reset guide.
House cleaning in Middlebury
We serve homes throughout Middlebury. Learn more on our house cleaning page for Middlebury, CT.
Holiday dinner questions
How soon should leftovers be put away?
Within two hours of serving, following common food safety guidance.
Should I hand-wash good glasses?
Yes, delicate crystal and trimmed china are safer hand-washed.
Can I book a cleaning right after the holidays?
Yes. The days after the holidays fill quickly, so request your date early.
Do you clean before holiday dinners?
Yes. Many hosts book a cleaning a day or two before.