How to Clean Entryways Efficiently Like a Pro

First impressions matter — and for cleaning professionals, the entryway is where your client’s home makes its very first statement.
It’s also one of the hardest-working (and dirtiest) spaces: shoes, coats, pets, deliveries, and constant foot traffic all drag in dust, dirt, and germs.

A spotless entryway isn’t just about appearance — it sets the tone for the entire home.
Here’s how to clean and maintain entryways top to bottom, the Speed Cleaning way.

1. Start at the Top: Dust Before You Touch the Floor

Every professional cleaner knows the golden rule: work from top to bottom so you don’t undo your own work.

Begin by dusting light fixtures, ceiling corners, and shelves.
Use the Speed Cleaning™ Versa Pole with Microfiber Duster to reach high surfaces without climbing ladders — it traps dust instead of spreading it.

Don’t forget the tops of door frames, wall décor, and vents.
Spiders love those spots, especially in fall and winter months.

2. Wipe Down Walls and Baseboards

Walls take more abuse than we realize — scuff marks from shoes, bags, and hanging coats build up fast.

Spray Speed Cleaning™ Red Juice, our powerful yet safe all-purpose cleaner, on a damp microfiber cloth and wipe down the walls. Focus behind coat hooks and along high-traffic areas where grime and fingerprints tend to collect.

Then, move to the baseboards, where dust and pet hair usually gather.

3. Clean Doors, Handles, and High-Touch Surfaces

Entry doors and handles are germ hotspots.

Use heavy duty cleaner like Red Juice to wipe the door, trim, and handles thoroughly.

For brass or metal fixtures with water stains, Scum Bum is the pro’s secret weapon. It safely dissolves mineral deposits and grime without damaging the finish.

4. Clean Entryway Furniture and Surfaces

Sideboards, shelves, and small tables collect dust, mail, and fingerprints faster than any other area.

Spray an all-purpose cleaner (like Red Juice ) and wipe these areas with a clean microfiber cloth.

If there’s a mirror near the entryway, use Blue Juice for a streak-free finish — pros know it’s the difference between “clean” and “client-wowed.”

5. Refresh Rugs and Mats

Doormats are your first defense against dirt — and one of the first things guests (and clients) notice.

Take mats and rugs outside, shake or beat them to loosen trapped dirt, then vacuum both sides before putting them back.

For washable mats, clean them with Speed Cleaning™ Red Juice, a safe and effective all-purpose cleaner that lifts dirt and restores freshness.

If there are pet messes or organic stains, follow up with Pet Oops™ to neutralize odors and leave fibers truly clean.

💡 Bonus Tip: Keep a spare set of clean mats so you can swap them out between cleanings.

6. Clean the Floor — The Grand Finale

Once the top is spotless, it’s time to tackle the base.

Whether it’s hardwood, tile, or laminate, floors in entryways see it all — mud, water, salt, and sand.

1. Sweep or vacuum thoroughly (use an attachment for corners).

2. Spot clean stains or scuffs with a microfiber cloth and all-purpose cleaner.

3. Mop with the right solution:

   • Neutral pH cleaner (like SH-Clean) for sealed floors

7. Add the Finishing Touches

Once everything’s spotless, elevate the experience:

• Add a pleasant scent (Optional): Use an essential oil diffuser or linen spray (try citrus or eucalyptus).

• Declutter the space: Keep shoes organized, hang coats neatly, and toss junk mail.

• Add light: Clean bulbs and lampshades — bright lighting instantly makes the space feel cleaner.

💡 Pro tip: The entryway is the first place clients see when they walk in. A gleaming surface, fresh scent, and dust-free mirror leave a lasting impression of professionalism.

Happy Cleaning,

Amy