Thousands of Naples, Marco Island and Bonita Springs homeowners split the year between Southwest Florida and somewhere else. A seasonal home is a wonderful thing to come back to, as long as it has been cared for while you were gone. Months of humidity, dust and closed-up air can leave a home musty, dusty and in need of serious work. This guide covers how to prepare before you leave, what to do while you are away, and how to arrive to a home that is ready to enjoy.

Why seasonal homes need special care

A home that sits empty in Southwest Florida faces a few predictable problems:

• Humidity and mildew: without daily use, bathrooms, closets and A/C vents can develop musty smells and mildew.
• Dust: dust keeps settling even when no one is home, on floors, fans, blinds and furniture.
• Pests: crumbs or open food in the pantry can attract insects.
• Stale air and plumbing: unused drains can dry out and smell; unused toilets can develop rings.

Before you leave: a closing checklist

• Empty and clean the refrigerator, or leave it running with only sealed items
• Clear the pantry of opened food and wipe the shelves
• Run and empty the dishwasher, and leave it slightly open
• Wash and put away all bedding and towels
• Set the A/C to a temperature and humidity setting that protects the home (many owners use a dehumidistat or smart thermostat)
• Close blinds to reduce sun fading
• Take out all trash and recycling
• Schedule a deep cleaning so the home closes clean

While you are away: keep it maintained

A monthly or bi-weekly maintenance clean keeps an empty home from falling behind. A visit can include dusting, vacuuming, wiping down kitchens and bathrooms, running water in sinks and showers, and flushing toilets so nothing dries out or develops rings.

Many owners also combine cleaning with a home watch service, someone who checks the property for leaks, A/C problems or storm damage. Read our guide to home watch services to learn how the two work together.

Before you arrive: an opening clean

The best way to start your season is to walk into a home that has already been cleaned. An "opening" clean a few days before you arrive typically includes:

• Dusting all surfaces, fans and blinds
• Cleaning kitchens and bathrooms
• Vacuuming and mopping floors
• Wiping down the lanai and patio furniture
• Optional extras like inside the fridge, laundry, or cleaning the garage and pool area

Choosing a schedule while you are in town

Once you are back, most seasonal residents choose weekly or bi-weekly recurring cleaning for the season, then switch to monthly maintenance (or pause) when they leave. Retirees in particular often choose bi-weekly service so the heavier work, like floors, bathrooms and high dusting, is handled for them. See our guide on how often to have your house cleaned for help deciding.

Coastal homes: Marco Island and beachfront properties

Homes near the water deal with extra sand and salt air. Sliding door tracks, windows, lanai screens and outdoor furniture collect a salty film that dulls glass and wears on hardware. Add periodic window cleaning and regular wipe-downs of lanai surfaces to your plan. We serve Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Estero and the greater Naples area.

Frequently asked questions

How often should an empty seasonal home be cleaned?

Monthly is enough for most closed-up homes. Bi-weekly is better if the home is in a humid, low-airflow area or near the beach.

Can you clean before I arrive?

Yes. Many seasonal owners book an opening clean a few days before they return so the home is ready when they walk in.

Do I need to be home for the cleaning?

No. Many seasonal clients arrange access in advance so the home can be cleaned while they are away.

Arrive to a home that is ready

Naples ProCleaners helps seasonal residents across Southwest Florida close, maintain and open their homes with flexible cleaning plans. We are licensed, bonded and insured, and every clean comes with our 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Request your free quote or call (239) 350-2870.