Game Day Party Planning Cleaning Checklists

The 51st Super Bowl (or Super Bowl LI) is just around the corner, and if you’re hosting a viewing party you need to have your cleaning game on point. After all, it sure would be nice if you could relax with your friends and enjoy the big event instead of running around more than the players on the field.

The following checklists can help you own the before- and after-party cleaning this year.

Pre-Game Day Cleaning Checklist

• As you’re Super Bowl party planning, remember your television will be the focal point of the day, second only to your amazing snack spread, of course. Make sure the screen is clean by wiping smudges off with a dry microfiber cloth. If you have surround sound, vacuum the speakers with a dust buster or attachment.
• Clean and organize your fridge a day or two before Super Bowl Sunday so that you have room for all the munchies you’ll be preparing, as well as extra beer, wine or mixers. Additionally, wipe down your stovetop so that it’s ready for food preparation, and clean the countertops in case guests make their way to the kitchen. (They will.) While you’re in the kitchen, go ahead and wash any special serving dishes or cookware you’ll be needing for chips, nuts and your famous buffalo chicken dip.
• When getting ready for the party, wash out your kitchen trash can and set out an extra trash can in the room where you’ll watch the game. Stock the bottom of the cans with extra liners so that you can easily replace them each time you remove a load of trash.
• Wipe down the table on which you’ll lay out your game-time spread. If you have a special tablecloth for the event, go ahead and put that out, too. You can also set out any paper napkins, plates and plastic cutlery. Using plastic can dramatically reduce your post-game cleaning.
• Make it a point to dust and vacuum common areas during your Super Bowl party planning. Additionally, be certain you have ample seating for guests. As Super Bowl snacks can be messy, you may also want to consider removing decorative throw pillows or investing in an inexpensive slipcover for your couch.
• Ready an emergency clean-up kit stocked with microfiber cloths, paper towels and stain removers that you know are safe for your upholstery and surfaces. That way, if anyone spills beer cheese or just beer, you’ll be ready to spring into action like a defensive lineman.
• With all the libations you’ll be providing, your bathroom will likely see some heavy traffic. Make sure the sink and toilet are sparkling and lay out plenty of clean hand towels. You’ll also want to ensure there’s plenty of backup toilet paper available.
• Clear space in your closet or mudroom so that guests have a place to hang coats, scarves and purses. If you live in a snowy region, you may also want to set out some inexpensive rubber doormats to collect melting snow from boots.

Post-Party Cleaning Checklist

• Pack leftovers into food-storage bins.
• Empty all the trash cans and recycling bins and replace the bin liners.
• Wash any casserole dishes, slow cooker pots or dip trays.
• Clear abandoned napkins, plastic cutlery, paper plates and cups.
• Remove the tablecloth and wipe down the table.
• Vacuum common areas, as well as the couch and any chairs.