The holidays are in full swing and get-togethers are finally happening. While we’re all loving the opportunity to spend more time together, cleaning up after a party can feel like a lot of work when you’re hosting. Today, we're sharing 7 tips to make after party clean up easier and more efficient, so you can put your energy towards enjoying the moment. Watch Kelsey share these tips on our local news station or read on below!
Tip 1: Use Kraft Paper for Appetizers or Serving Stations
Kraft paper is not only practical for making party cleaning simple, it’s also very chic and lets your food stand out. Whether you’re serving carrot sticks or chocolate cake, you can create an entire grazing table without the need for tablecloths or platters. Enhance it by writing on the kraft paper if you want to -- once you’re finished just wrap it up and throw it away.
Tip 2: Make Trash Cans Accessible
Make it convenient for guests to simplify your after party clean up by having multiple pop-up trash cans placed around the main areas. You can buy these in 3 packs, I like the sturdier ones that can handle a bit more weight. It prevents that one main trash can from overflowing and encourages people to throw out their disposable items instead of leaving them around. Be sure to keep a spare bag at the bottom in case it fills up.
Tip 3: Always Do Your Dishes Before the Party
Having an empty dishwasher is ideal, but having an empty sink is all you really need for cleaning up after a party. The second trick here is to fill your sink with soapy water or put a basin in your sink with soapy water. This encourages guests to put dishes or empty serving platters right into the soaping bin. It will be super easy for you to do those hand-washed dishes or load the dishwasher during your after party cleaning at the end of the night.
Tip 4: Assign Glasses
To reduce your after party clean up, assign glasses with cute markers or write on them with a sharpie. This cuts down on the number of cups you have floating around and makes for fewer dishes. Also, always put coasters in plain sight on all delicate surfaces. These are some of ours that dry instantly so you don’t have to worry about water marks on tables during your after party cleaning.
Tip 5: Don't Forget Take-Home Containers
Have take-home containers ready for guests at the end of the night. It helps you start the after party clean up and it’s a nice gesture. Towards the end of the party, I will put these out and as soon as people have cleared off a serving dish, it goes right into the soapy sink.
Tip 6: Pre-Set a Cleaning Station
Create a designated area with all the necessary cleaning supplies - multipurpose cleaners, paper towels, and sponges. Have a small bin or bag for immediate trash disposal, and consider using gloves for messier tasks. This makes after-party cleaning a breeze. A cleaning station ensures that everything you need is ready to use and saves you time, which streamlines your after party cleanup.
Tip 7: Use Scented Candles or Fresheners
Light scented candles or use air fresheners during your festivities to make your after party cleanup a breeze. Not only will this set a pleasant mood during your party, but it also reduces any lingering odors. I like citrus or lavender for a refreshing feel, while vanilla or cinnamon can create a cozier atmosphere. Remember to place candles safely and keep air fresheners away from the food area to maintain the integrity of your food.
Your After-Party Cleaning Checklist
When your last guest has left, it’s time to get to work. To make the task a little less overwhelming, having an after-party cleaning checklist can help. Whether it's a casual get-together or a big celebration like Thanksgiving, we’ve got a checklist for you that will help manage your clean up after a party while making your space as inviting and clean as it was before.
- Collect all disposables: Start by picking up all disposable plates, cups, and napkins.
- Wipe down surfaces: Use a good cleaner to wipe down all tables and countertops.
- Sweep and mop the floors: Ensure all crumbs and spills are taken care of.
- Check the bathrooms: Restock supplies and clean as needed.
- Gather and wash any reusable items: Make sure all dishes and utensils are cleaned.
- Dispose your garbage: Take out the trash to avoid any lingering odors.
- Recycle: Don’t forget to separate recyclables.
- Return furniture and decor back to where they belong: If you moved anything around for the party, put it back.
- Do a final walkthrough: Ensure you didn’t miss any spots.
Embrace Your After Party Clean Up With Dorai Home Essentials
We love having a clean and tidy space and these tips help us enjoy entertaining even more. By following them yourself, you’ll finish your after party cleaning in no time, leaving you more room to relish the memories of a night you won’t forget.
To make cleaning up after a party even easier, stock your home with essentials like the Dorai Dish Pad and the Stone Sink Caddy. These quick-drying accessories not only keep your countertops and surfaces clean, but also add a touch of elegance to your home. (PS - they make great holiday gifts, too!)
Happy hosting and even happier after party cleaning!