From “Real Bad” to “Real Room”: A Chicago Cleaning Transformation Story

Life in Chicago moves fast. Between work, family, and trying to enjoy everything this amazing city has to offer, finding the time for a thorough apartment cleaning can feel impossible. We get it. That’s why we’re sharing some real talk and tips to help you reclaim your space, whether you tackle it yourself or decide you need a little deep cleaning help.

Ever have a room that just… becomes a catch-all? You’re not alone. We recently helped a client with a space that had been a storage room for over 18 months. Their honest review? “It was real bad.” We know that feeling—when you open a door and just sigh at the mountain of stuff and dust. But here’s the good news: every space, no matter how overwhelmed, can be transformed back into a functional, peaceful part of your home.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Reclaiming Any Space

Whether it’s a spare room, a packed closet, or a kitchen that’s seen better days, the process is the same. You don’t need fast cleaning services every time, but having a plan is key.

Step 1: The Big Takedown

Start by removing everything from the room. Yes, everything! This is the most crucial step. It lets you see the actual space you’re working with—the floors, the shelves, the corners that have been hiding. As you empty it, sort items into three piles: keep, donate/toss, and a “maybe” pile (but be ruthless with this one!).

Step 2: The Deep Clean Foundation

With the room empty, now’s the time for the real cleaning. This isn’t a surface wipe-down.

• Dust & Vacuum: Start high—ceiling corners, light fixtures, tops of door frames—and work your way down to baseboards. Then, vacuum the entire floor thoroughly.
• Wipe All Surfaces: Use an appropriate cleaner for shelves, windowsills, and any built-ins. Don’t forget the walls and doors for fingerprints and smudges.
• Finish the Floors: Mop hard surfaces or give carpets a proper shampoo. This foundational clean makes everything else feel fresh.

If this step feels too daunting, that’s exactly when a professional home cleaning team can be a game-changer.

Step 3: The Smart Put-Back

This is where the magic happens. Don’t just put everything back where it was. Be intentional.

• Only bring back items from your “keep” pile that belong in this room.
• Use organizers, bins, and shelves to create a system that will last.
• Leave some breathing room. A little empty space prevents future clutter buildup.

The final reveal—going from “Oh my god” to “It’s like a real room!”—is the best feeling. It’s about reclaiming your home’s potential.

When to Call in the Chicago Pros

We love a good DIY project, but sometimes you need an expert. Maybe you’re short on time, the job is too big, or you simply want it done right the first time. As a trusted Chicago cleaning company, we’re here for those moments.

Searching for “cleaning service near me” should lead you to reliable, local help. If you need someone to clean my apartment thoroughly and efficiently, professional cleaning services in Chicago can handle the heavy lifting. The easiest way to get your space cleaned is to schedule a cleaning with a team you trust.

It was just a storage room for 18 months. >> It was real bad. >> Are you ready to see? >> Yeah. I’m excited. >> One, two, three. >> Oh my god. It’s like a real room.