Summer Cleaning Guide Ottawa: Beat the Heat and Humidity

Ottawa summers bring sunshine, outdoor living, and unique cleaning challenges. High humidity, pollen, and increased outdoor activity mean your home needs different care than during winter months. This comprehensive summer cleaning guide covers indoor humidity control, outdoor furniture care, BBQ maintenance, and strategies for keeping your Ottawa home fresh and comfortable all season long.

Key Takeaways

TL;DR: Summer cleaning in Ottawa focuses on humidity control (maintain 40-50%), air quality management, outdoor space maintenance, and allergen reduction. Schedule deep cleaning in early June to prepare for the season.

Indoor Summer Cleaning Priorities

Humidity Control: Your Top Priority

Ottawa summers frequently produce humidex readings exceeding 70%, creating ideal conditions for mould growth, musty odours, and discomfort. Managing indoor humidity is essential:

Target humidity: Maintain 40-50% throughout your home. Below 30% causes dry skin and irritated airways; above 50% promotes mould and dust mites.

Humidity control strategies:

• Run dehumidifiers in basements and lower levels from May through September
• Use exhaust fans when cooking and showering—don't let moisture accumulate
• Check AC drainage to ensure condensate drains properly
• Open windows strategically during dry mornings; close during humid afternoons
• Use moisture absorbers in closets, storage areas, and bathrooms

Air Quality Maintenance

Summer brings higher pollen counts and increased outdoor allergens that infiltrate your home:

HVAC maintenance:

• Replace filters monthly during peak summer (standard recommendation is every 3 months, but summer demands more)
• Consider upgrading to HEPA filters for improved allergen capture
• Schedule professional duct cleaning if not done in the past 3-5 years
• Clean air vents and returns—dust accumulates over winter

Natural ventilation:

• Clean window screens to allow fresh airflow without insects
• Wash curtains and blinds that collect dust and pollen
• Open windows during low-pollen times (early morning, after rain)

Ceiling Fans and Lighting

Ceiling fans work hard all summer but collect dust that circulates through your home:

• Clean fan blades monthly using a damp microfibre cloth or pillowcase trick (slip pillowcase over blade, wipe while containing dust)
• Reverse fan direction to counter-clockwise for summer (creates cooling downdraft)
• Clean light fixtures that attract insects and accumulate dust
• Replace burnt-out bulbs while fixtures are accessible

Window and Door Maintenance

Summer is the time to address windows neglected during winter:

• Wash windows inside and out for maximum natural light
• Clean tracks and frames where dirt and debris accumulate
• Check weatherstripping and seals—summer heat reveals gaps
• Wash screens with mild soap and water; repair tears before insects find them
• Clean sliding door tracks that collect grit and impede smooth operation

Outdoor Living Space Cleaning

Patio and Deck Deep Cleaning

Before hosting outdoor gatherings, give your outdoor surfaces proper attention:

Concrete patios:

1. Sweep away loose debris
2. Apply concrete cleaner or mix of dish soap and warm water
3. Scrub with stiff brush, working in sections
4. Rinse thoroughly with garden hose (or pressure washer at 1,500-2,500 PSI)
5. Allow to dry completely before replacing furniture

Wooden decks:

1. Clear all furniture and planters
2. Sweep thoroughly, removing debris from between boards
3. Apply deck cleaner following product directions
4. Scrub with deck brush, working with the wood grain
5. Rinse and allow to dry
6. Apply sealant or stain if needed (best done in early summer)

Paver patios:

1. Remove weeds from joints
2. Sweep sand from joints if using polymeric sand
3. Pressure wash at 1,500-2,000 PSI
4. Re-apply polymeric sand after cleaning
5. Seal pavers for protection (optional but recommended)

Outdoor Furniture Care

Different materials require different cleaning approaches:

Plastic and resin furniture:

• Mix warm water with mild dish soap
• Wipe down with soft cloth or sponge
• Rinse thoroughly and dry
• Apply UV protectant spray to prevent fading

Metal furniture (aluminum, wrought iron, steel):

• Clean with mild soap and water
• Dry immediately to prevent water spots or rust
• Check for rust spots; sand and touch up with matching paint
• Apply car wax for extra protection and shine

Wicker and rattan:

• Vacuum with brush attachment to remove loose debris
• Clean with soft brush and soapy water
• Rinse gently (avoid soaking—wicker can warp)
• Dry completely in sun before use
• Apply tung oil annually to maintain flexibility

Teak and wood furniture:

• Clean with teak cleaner or oxygen-based wood cleaner
• Scrub with soft brush following wood grain
• Rinse thoroughly
• Apply teak oil or sealant to maintain colour (or allow natural silver patina)

Fabric cushions and umbrellas:

• Remove covers if possible and machine wash on gentle cycle
• Spot clean with fabric cleaner for non-removable covers
• Address mildew immediately with vinegar solution
• Store cushions in dry area overnight to prevent moisture damage

BBQ Grill Deep Cleaning

Your grill works hard all summer—give it a thorough cleaning at season start:

Monthly cleaning routine:

1. Heat grill on high for 15 minutes to burn off residue
2. Brush grates with grill brush while hot
3. Empty and clean grease trap
4. Wipe exterior with appropriate cleaner

Seasonal deep cleaning:

1. Disconnect propane (for gas grills) or remove ash (charcoal)
2. Remove grates and heat plates—soak in hot soapy water
3. Scrape interior of firebox to remove carbon buildup
4. Clean burner tubes with brush, checking for blockages
5. Scrub grates with grill brush or crumpled aluminum foil
6. Wash exterior with appropriate cleaner for your grill material
7. Check propane connections for leaks using soapy water
8. Reassemble and run empty for 15 minutes to burn off residue

Pro tip: Line drip pans with aluminum foil for easier future cleaning.

Summer Allergen Control

Ottawa's summer brings significant allergen challenges:

Pollen Management

• Remove shoes at the door to avoid tracking pollen inside
• Shower and change clothes after extended outdoor time
• Keep windows closed during high pollen days (check local forecasts)
• Wash bedding weekly in hot water during peak season
• Vacuum frequently with HEPA-filter vacuum
• Wipe pets with damp cloth after outdoor time

Dust Mite Control

Hot, humid conditions favour dust mite proliferation:

• Maintain humidity below 50% (dust mites thrive above 50%)
• Wash bedding weekly at 55°C or higher
• Use allergen-proof covers on mattresses and pillows
• Vacuum upholstered furniture regularly
• Replace or wash pillows that are more than 2 years old

Mould Prevention

Summer humidity creates mould-friendly conditions:

• Run bathroom exhaust fans for 30 minutes after showers
• Fix leaks immediately—mould grows within 24-48 hours
• Check under sinks for condensation and moisture
• Clean refrigerator drip pans and door seals
• Address musty odours promptly—they indicate mould presence

Room-by-Room Summer Checklist

Kitchen

• Deep clean refrigerator interior and coils
• Clean oven and range (especially before summer entertaining)
• Sanitise garbage disposal with ice and citrus
• Clean range hood and filter
• Wipe cabinet faces and handles
• Wash trash bins inside and out
• Clean small appliances (toaster, coffee maker, microwave)
• Check for expired pantry items (insects are more active in summer)

Bathroom

• Deep clean grout and tile
• Descale showerheads and faucets
• Clean exhaust fan cover
• Wash shower curtain and liner
• Organise and declutter cabinets
• Check for mould in corners and caulking
• Clean toilet thoroughly including base and behind

Bedroom

• Wash all bedding including mattress pad and pillows
• Flip or rotate mattress
• Vacuum mattress surface
• Wash or dry clean curtains
• Clean under bed and furniture
• Organise closets (swap winter/summer clothing)
• Dust ceiling fan and light fixtures

Living Areas

• Deep clean upholstered furniture
• Shampoo carpets or schedule professional cleaning
• Clean window treatments
• Dust all surfaces including tops of frames and shelves
• Clean electronics (TV screens, remotes, gaming controllers)
• Vacuum and clean under furniture
• Wash throw pillows and blankets

Summer Pest Prevention

Warm weather brings increased pest activity. Prevention is easier than elimination:

General Prevention

• Seal entry points—check window screens, door sweeps, and foundation cracks
• Store food properly in sealed containers
• Clean up immediately after meals and entertaining
• Empty garbage regularly and keep bins clean
• Fix moisture issues—pests need water sources
• Trim vegetation away from house exterior

Specific Pests

Ants:

• Clean up crumbs and spills immediately
• Store sweet foods in sealed containers
• Seal entry points with caulk
• Wipe surfaces with vinegar solution

Mosquitoes:

• Eliminate standing water (flower pot saucers, bird baths, clogged gutters)
• Ensure window screens are intact
• Use fans on patios (mosquitoes are weak fliers)

Wasps and bees:

• Keep garbage sealed
• Clean up fallen fruit promptly
• Cover food at outdoor gatherings
• Address nests early before colonies grow

Flies:

• Keep doors and windows screened
• Clean pet areas regularly
• Don't leave food uncovered
• Clean garbage bins regularly

Why Choose Urban9 for Summer Cleaning?

Urban9 Cleaning Services helps Ottawa homeowners prepare for and maintain their homes throughout summer:

• Deep cleaning services to reset your home for the season
• Regular maintenance keeping humidity and allergens under control
• Flexible scheduling around your summer activities
• Eco-friendly products safe for outdoor spaces and gardens
• Ottawa expertise understanding local climate challenges

Serving: Ottawa, Kanata, Stittsville, Orléans, Barrhaven, Nepean, Gloucester

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When should I do my summer deep cleaning in Ottawa?

Early June is ideal. You've had time to assess post-winter conditions, weather is warm enough for outdoor cleaning, and you're prepared before peak entertaining season. This timing also allows you to address any issues before humidity peaks in July-August.

Q: How do I control humidity without running AC constantly?

Use dehumidifiers in basements and lower levels, run exhaust fans when cooking and bathing, open windows strategically during dry mornings, use moisture absorbers in closets, and ensure proper ventilation throughout your home. Target 40-50% humidity.

Q: How often should I clean my outdoor furniture?

Give furniture a thorough cleaning at season start (May-June) and again mid-season. Wipe down after rain or heavy pollen days. Fabric cushions should be cleaned monthly or when visibly soiled. Store cushions in dry locations overnight to prevent moisture damage.

Q: What's the best way to clean a BBQ grill?

Heat the grill on high for 15 minutes to burn off residue, then brush grates while hot. For deep cleaning, remove grates and soak in soapy water, clean interior with scraper, check burner tubes for blockages, and clean grease trap. Deep clean at season start and monthly thereafter.

Q: How do I reduce summer allergens in my home?

Replace HVAC filters monthly, vacuum frequently with HEPA vacuum, wash bedding weekly in hot water, keep humidity below 50%, remove shoes at the door, shower after extended outdoor time, and keep windows closed during high pollen days.

Q: Should I pressure wash my deck?

Pressure washing is effective but requires proper technique. Use 1,500-2,500 PSI for wood decks (too high damages wood fibres). Work with the grain, maintain consistent distance, and allow complete drying before sealing. For delicate surfaces, consider soft washing instead.

Q: How do I prevent mould in my bathroom during humid summers?

Run exhaust fan for 30 minutes after showering, wipe down shower walls after use, keep bathroom door open for airflow, fix any leaks immediately, clean grout and caulking regularly, and maintain humidity below 50%.

Q: What summer cleaning tasks should I hire professionals for?

Consider professional help for: duct cleaning (every 3-5 years), carpet deep cleaning, window cleaning (especially second floors), pressure washing decks and patios, and deep cleaning before major events or if you're short on time.

Q: How do I keep my home smelling fresh without artificial fragrances?

Maintain proper ventilation, address humidity issues, clean regularly, use baking soda in garbage cans and refrigerators, place bowls of white vinegar in musty areas, use activated charcoal bags in closets, and bring in fresh flowers or herbs.

Q: What's the biggest summer cleaning mistake Ottawa homeowners make?

Neglecting humidity control. Ottawa's summer humidity creates perfect conditions for mould, mildew, and dust mites. Running dehumidifiers in basements and using exhaust fans isn't optional—it's essential for maintaining healthy indoor air quality.

Q: How do I prepare my home for summer entertaining?

Deep clean indoor and outdoor spaces, ensure patio furniture is clean and comfortable, deep clean BBQ grill, stock up on cleaning supplies for quick touch-ups, prepare guest bathroom with fresh linens, and address any pest issues before they become problems.

Q: Should I clean window screens?

Yes! Dirty screens block airflow and bring dust and pollen inside. Remove screens, lay flat on grass or tarp, spray with garden hose, scrub gently with soft brush and soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and allow to dry completely before reinstalling.

Ready for Summer?

Let Urban9 Cleaning Services help you prepare your Ottawa home for the season. Whether you need a one-time deep clean or regular summer maintenance, we'll keep your home fresh and comfortable all season long.

Contact Urban9 today for a free consultation. Call 613-664-5678 or request a quote online.

Urban9 Cleaning provides professional house cleaning, deep cleaning, and regular maintenance services throughout Ottawa, Kanata, Orléans, Barrhaven, and surrounding areas. We also offer spring cleaning to help you transition between seasons.