Back-to-School Clean Sweep: Reset Your Home for a Stress-Free Start (Indianapolis Edition)

August in Indianapolis is full of energy. The kids are prepping for school, the Indiana State Fair is in full swing, and summer adventures are winding down. As families get ready to shift from poolside lounging to packing lunches and powering through early mornings, your home deserves a refresh just as much as your routine. A thorough back-to-school clean isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about setting a foundation for smoother days ahead. Whether you’re running errands on 82nd Street or taking a final weekend bike ride at Eagle Creek Park, returning home to a clean space brings calm to the chaos.

Here’s a checklist from The Dust Devils tailored to Indy families who want to start the school year with clarity, cleanliness, and confidence.

1. Declutter the Drop Zones

Your entryway, kitchen counter, or mudroom will quickly become the go-to area for backpacks, lunchboxes, and homework folders. Clear out the summer clutter—think sunglasses, water bottles, pool bags—and make room for a new season of activity. Set up bins, hooks, and a small shelf to contain the daily influx of gear.

Dust Devils’ Pro Tip: Use a dry-erase calendar in your drop zone to keep school events, parent nights, and sports practices front and center.

2. Deep Clean the Kids’ Bedrooms

Those bedrooms took a beating this summer—between sleepovers, blanket forts, and all-day gaming sessions, there’s likely more grime than you realize. Wash sheets, vacuum under beds, and dust corners. Go through clothes, pack up what doesn’t fit, and create space for school clothes and gear.

Dust Devils’ Pro Tip: Set a 20-minute timer and make a game of it with your kids. Offer a small reward when their space is fully cleaned.

3. Refresh Bathrooms for School Routines

School mornings move fast—clean, organized bathrooms can keep them from turning chaotic. Sanitize sinks, scrub tubs, and clean out under-sink storage. Make sure there’s a spot for every toothbrush, hairbrush, and morning essential.

Dust Devils’ Pro Tip: Install drawer organizers or use labeled baskets so each child has their own supplies—no more squabbles over toothpaste!

4. Reboot the Refrigerator & Pantry

From packing lunches to after-school snacks, your kitchen will be busy. Toss expired food, clean shelves, and reorganize. Group snacks in bins, prep grab-and-go containers, and make space for weeknight dinner prep.

Dust Devils’ Pro Tip: Keep a “snack station” at kid level so they can help themselves after school without rummaging through the whole pantry.

5. Sanitize High-Touch Surfaces

With school germs making their way home, The Dust Devils recommend getting ahead of the cold season. Disinfect doorknobs, light switches, cabinet handles, and remotes. It’s a quick task that makes a big difference in keeping your household healthier.

Dust Devils’ Pro Tip: Leave a small disinfectant wipe container in each bathroom or by the kitchen sink for easy, daily touch-ups.

FAQs

Do I need to be home during the cleaning?
Not at all! Many of our Indy clients book while they’re at work or out with the kids—we’ll lock up securely when we’re done.

What areas in Indy do you serve?
We clean all over the metro—from Fountain Square to Broad Ripple to Nora.

Can I book just a one-time back-to-school clean?
Absolutely. We offer flexible scheduling with no contracts required.

Do you use kid-safe products?
Yes, all our supplies are non-toxic and family-friendly.

How soon should I schedule?
August books up fast, so the sooner you grab a spot, the better!

Why Choose The Dust Devils in Indianapolis?

Here at The Dust Devils we’re a local team who understands what it means to juggle life in Indy. Whether your kids attend IPS, private school, or homeschool, we’re here to help your family get back to routine with less stress and more sparkle. Let us handle the mess so you can enjoy that last trip to the fair, dinner at Mass Ave, or a Sunday stroll through Garfield Park Conservatory—mess-free.