The short answer
Start with a clean, clear kitchen, clean as you go, and finish with a dry sweep before any wet wiping, because wet flour turns to paste. Soak bowls and beaters right away.
December in Yorktown Heights means holiday errands along Underhill Avenue and Commerce Street, the lights downtown, and, in many kitchens, a cookie day or two. Flour, powdered sugar, and sprinkles find every corner. A little planning keeps the fun part fun.
Before you bake
- Clear and wipe the counters.
- Empty the dishwasher and the sink.
- Set out a bowl of warm soapy water for tools.
- Lay a mat or old sheet under the work area if kids are helping.
While you bake
Put tools in soapy water as you finish with them. Wipe spills of egg or butter right away. Keep sprinkles in a tray with a lip.
The cleanup
- Dry first: brush flour and sugar off counters into your hand or a dustpan.
- Then wet: wipe counters with warm soapy water.
- Tools: wash bowls, beaters, and sheet pans.
- Appliances: wipe the mixer, stovetop, and oven handle.
- Floor: sweep or vacuum before mopping.
Sticky spots
Dried icing and caramel soften with a warm, damp cloth left on for a minute. Avoid scraping counters or cabinet finishes.
The rest of the season
For a full holiday plan, see our holiday cleaning timeline. For the January reset, see our January reset guide.
House cleaning in Yorktown Heights
We serve homes in Yorktown Heights and Mohegan Lake. Learn more on our house cleaning page for Yorktown Heights, NY, or read our fall pantry guide.
Holiday baking questions
Why does flour turn to paste when I wipe it?
Water mixes with flour. Brush it off dry first, then wipe.
How do I get dried icing off a counter?
Lay a warm, damp cloth on it for a minute to soften it, then wipe gently.
Should I book a cleaning before or after holiday baking?
Many people book before the holidays and again in early January.
Do you serve Mohegan Lake?
Yes. We serve Yorktown Heights and Mohegan Lake.