Structural cleaning is a big task. It’s best to break it down into manageable parts and plan the flow so that cleaned areas stay clean.

Here are key tips to help you organize:

1. Start with decluttering. Remove unnecessary items to reduce what needs cleaning and expose more surface area.
2. Remove or seal off contents. If possible, move belongings out of each room before starting. If that’s not feasible, cover them with plastic and clean them later (in the contents course).
3. Plan your cleaning order. Always clean from:
   • Top to bottom (ceilings before floors)
   • Cleanest areas to dirtiest
   • Least-contaminated rooms to most-contaminated
4. Create zones. If possible, keep cleaned areas separated from areas still being worked on by using temporary barriers or closing doors.
5. Sequester sensitive items. Items you’re unsure about can be placed in plastic bins and stored outside the main living space until you’re ready to clean or discard them.
6. Work in teams if possible. Having help can reduce the physical load and allow you to finish faster, which minimizes the chance of recontamination.

Starting with a clear plan will make the work more manageable and reduce stress throughout the process.