Living in the Sunshine State comes with unique cleaning challenges
Living in Florida is a dream - endless sunshine, beautiful beaches, and that laid-back lifestyle we all love. But let's be honest: keeping your home clean in the Sunshine State comes with challenges you won't find in other parts of the country.
From battling humidity that seems determined to grow mold on everything, to the sand that magically appears in every corner of your house, Florida homes need special attention. Here's everything we've learned after years of cleaning homes across Tampa Bay.
🌡️ The Humidity Battle: Your #1 Enemy
Florida Fact:
Florida's average humidity is 74.5%, making it the second most humid state in the US. In Tampa, morning humidity averages 86%!
That sticky feeling isn't just uncomfortable - it's actively working against your clean home. Here's how to fight back:
Keep Your AC Running Smart
- Set your fan to AUTO, not ON. When set to "ON," the fan runs constantly, re-circulating humid air back into your home before it can properly drain.
- Maintain 72-76°F. This sweet spot removes humidity efficiently without running up your electric bill.
- Change filters monthly. Florida's constant AC use clogs filters faster. A dirty filter can't remove humidity effectively.
Strategic Dehumidifier Placement
Even with AC, some areas need extra help:
- Bathrooms - Place a small dehumidifier if your exhaust fan isn't cutting it
- Closets - Dark, enclosed spaces are mold magnets. Use moisture absorbers like DampRid
- Garage - Often overlooked, but humidity here can affect your whole house
- Under sinks - Check monthly for moisture buildup and leaks
Pro Tip: Keep indoor humidity between 45-55%. Buy a cheap hygrometer from Amazon to monitor levels in different rooms.
🦠 Mold & Mildew: The Silent Invaders
In Florida, mold doesn't just happen in neglected homes - it can appear in any home within 24-48 hours if conditions are right. Prevention is everything.
Weekly Mold Prevention Routine
Bathroom Spray-Down
After your last shower of the day, spray shower walls with a 50/50 vinegar-water solution. No rinsing needed.
Window Track Check
Condensation collects here. Wipe dry and check for early mold growth weekly.
AC Drip Pan Inspection
Located under your air handler. If clogged, water backs up and creates a mold paradise.
Under-Sink Survey
Kitchen and bathroom pipes can develop slow leaks. Catch them early.
Best Mold-Fighting Products for Florida
- Concrobium Mold Control - EPA-registered, no bleach, safe for most surfaces
- RMR-86 - For stubborn mold stains (use in ventilated areas)
- White vinegar - Natural option that kills 82% of mold species
- Tea tree oil spray - Mix 1 tsp with 1 cup water for a natural preventative
🏖️ Sand: It Gets Everywhere
Beach days are amazing until you realize you've brought half the Gulf of Mexico home with you. And even if you don't go to the beach, Florida's sandy soil finds its way inside.
Entry Point Defense System
- Double doormat strategy: Rough texture mat outside (to scrape), soft mat inside (to absorb)
- No-shoes policy: Keep a basket of slip-on sandals by the door for guests
- Outdoor rinse station: A hose or outdoor shower for post-beach rinse-offs
- Car containment: Keep a small brush in your car to brush off feet before getting in
Vacuuming Tips for Sandy Homes
- ✓Use a vacuum with strong suction - Sand is heavy and needs pulling power
- ✓Empty the canister frequently - Sand fills it fast and reduces suction
- ✓Go slow on tile and hardwood - Fast passes scatter sand instead of picking it up
- ✓Shake out area rugs outside weekly - They trap sand that vacuums can't reach
🐜 Keeping Pests at Bay Through Cleaning
Florida's warm, humid climate is paradise for bugs too. A clean home is your first line of defense against palmetto bugs (let's be honest, they're giant roaches), ants, and other unwanted guests.
- Don't leave pet food out overnight - This is the #1 attractant for roaches
- Wipe down counters nightly - Even small crumbs attract armies of ants
- Take trash out frequently - Don't wait until the bag is overflowing
- Clean under appliances monthly - Hidden food debris attracts pests
- Fix dripping faucets - Bugs need water sources, especially in dry season
🌴 Managing the Indoor-Outdoor Lifestyle
Lanais, pool decks, and open floor plans are Florida staples. Here's how to handle the constant traffic between indoors and outdoors:
Pool Area → Inside
Keep towels outside for drying off. Place a chlorine-resistant mat at pool entry. Rinse feet before coming in.
Lanai Maintenance
Pressure wash monthly (or after storms). Treat screen frames with mold preventer. Sweep daily to prevent tracking in debris.
Sliding Door Tracks
Vacuum tracks weekly. They collect sand, bugs, and debris that gets tracked inside. Clean with an old toothbrush.
Floor Transitions
Place washable rugs at every outdoor-to-indoor transition. Wash them weekly during summer.
📅 The Florida-Specific Cleaning Schedule
Homes in Florida need more frequent attention than homes in dryer climates. Here's what we recommend:
Recommended Frequency
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent mold in my Florida home?
Keep indoor humidity below 60% using your AC (set fan to AUTO) and dehumidifiers. Clean bathrooms weekly with mold-killing products. Ensure proper ventilation, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. Fix any water leaks immediately - in Florida's humidity, mold can start growing within 24 hours.
How often should I clean my Florida home?
Due to Florida's humidity and outdoor allergens, we recommend weekly surface cleaning, bi-weekly deep cleaning of bathrooms and kitchens, and monthly deep cleaning of the entire home. Air filters should be changed monthly due to constant AC use.
Why does my Florida home get so dusty?
Florida homes collect dust quickly due to constant AC circulation, pollen from year-round blooming plants, and sand tracked in from outdoors. Using high-quality air filters (MERV 11+), frequent vacuuming with HEPA filters, and entry mats can significantly reduce dust.