Owning a beach house comes with its perks—gorgeous views, access to the water, and endless fun in the sun. But with the good comes the not-so-glamorous aspects of beach living: sand, saltwater, and humidity, all of which can take a toll on your home. The combination of these elements can cause wear and tear, leaving your beach house in need of extra care, especially during the summer months when the house sees more visitors, activities, and foot traffic.
Maintaining a beach house requires a different approach to cleaning and upkeep than a typical home. But don’t worry! With the right cleaning habits and a few proactive tips, you can keep your beach house looking fresh, inviting, and in great condition all season long.
Here are some beach house cleaning tips to help you stay on top of things:
1. Shake Out Sand Regularly
Sand may be a beloved part of the beach experience, but it’s not so great for your floors, furniture, or décor. If you’re going to the beach with the intention of bringing the sand back home, make sure to clean it up regularly.
Tip: Set up a “sand station” near the door with a brush, small broom, and dustpan to quickly sweep up sand before it spreads throughout the house. You can also keep a shallow tray of water or a towel by the door for people to wipe their feet before entering.
For quick clean-ups, a vacuum with a soft brush attachment is excellent for removing sand from carpets, rugs, and upholstery.
2. Protect Your Furniture and Fabrics
Salt air and humidity can be harsh on fabrics, especially those in your living room or on outdoor furniture. Over time, salt can cause fabrics to discolor, become brittle, or attract moisture, which leads to mold growth.
Tip: Choose washable slipcovers for sofas and chairs that are easy to toss in the wash when they get too salty or sandy. For outdoor furniture, consider waterproof covers when not in use or invest in furniture specifically made for the beach climate.
Regularly vacuum cushions and use a lint roller to pick up stray sand particles. If you have upholstered furniture, consider a fabric protector spray designed to resist moisture and staining.
3. Clean Windows and Glass Regularly
Salt from the air can build up on windows and glass surfaces, leaving streaks and cloudy spots that diminish your beach house’s panoramic views. Make it a habit to clean your windows more frequently in the summer months.
Tip: Use a mixture of vinegar and water (or a commercial glass cleaner) to remove salt and water spots. Be sure to clean both the interior and exterior of your windows. For hard-to-reach spots, use a squeegee or a telescoping window cleaning tool.
To prevent salt buildup, consider installing storm windows or using a protective film on glass surfaces.
4. Maintain Air Quality and Humidity Control
The salty air from the ocean isn’t just tough on your home’s surfaces—it also affects your indoor air quality. Humidity and salt can contribute to musty smells, mold growth, and general discomfort inside the house.
Tip: Invest in a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels and keep your air fresh. For an extra layer of defense, place moisture-absorbing products like silica gel packs or activated charcoal bags in areas that are prone to humidity, such as closets, bathrooms, and under sinks.
Don’t forget to clean and replace the air filters on your HVAC systems regularly, as the salt air can clog filters and reduce the system’s efficiency.
5. Rinse Outdoor Furniture and Gear After Each Use
Beach chairs, umbrellas, surfboards, and other outdoor equipment often get covered in sand, salt, and seawater. Left unchecked, salt can cause rusting, wear on fabrics, and fading over time.
Tip: After each use, rinse all outdoor furniture and gear with fresh water to remove saltwater residue. Wipe down any chairs, tables, and toys with a mild soap solution, and store them in a shaded area or under covers to protect them from the elements.
You can also use a specialized fabric cleaner for cushions and umbrellas to keep them looking vibrant longer.
6. Dealing with Rust and Salt Damage
Saltwater can be highly corrosive, and the metal fixtures, appliances, and hardware in your beach house are especially vulnerable to rust. Doorknobs, faucets, railings, and outdoor shower fixtures may need more frequent attention to avoid permanent damage.
Tip: Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for removing rust and corrosion. Mild white vinegar and baking soda can work wonders to clean rust from metal surfaces. For prevention, use rust-resistant coatings or oils on metal surfaces to help protect them from the harsh beach environment.
7. Protect Your Floors with Rugs and Mats
Sandy feet and salty air can wreak havoc on floors, especially wood and tile. A simple way to protect your floors from dirt and debris is by placing rugs and mats at every entryway and high-traffic areas.
Tip: Choose washable, natural-fiber rugs like cotton or jute that can be easily cleaned and dried. For tile or wood floors, keep a mop handy to wipe up spills, salt stains, or sand quickly. A dry microfiber mop works great for catching dust and dirt without pushing it around.
8. Deep Clean the Bathroom Regularly
Beach-goers tend to use the bathroom more frequently, especially after returning from a day in the surf or sand. Keeping your bathrooms fresh can be a bit more challenging with all the extra sand, sunscreen, and saltwater.
Tip: Use a mild, natural cleaner to scrub down sinks, countertops, and tubs after each use. Keep a small broom or dustpan in the bathroom to clean up sand immediately. For shower stalls or tubs, apply a vinegar and water solution to remove soap scum and salt buildup.
If your bathroom has a shower, consider placing a squeegee by the door for a quick wipe-down after every shower. This helps reduce the buildup of salt and soap scum, which can leave streaky spots.
9. Use Natural Air Fresheners
A beach house’s open windows and proximity to the ocean can sometimes mean salty or musty odors creeping inside. While air fresheners might mask the smell, they don’t actually solve the problem and can contribute to chemical buildup.
Tip: Use natural air fresheners like essential oil diffusers or beeswax candles. You can even make your own air freshener by mixing water and a few drops of essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus. These are gentle and safe options for maintaining a fresh atmosphere.
10. Stay on Top of Seasonal Maintenance
Finally, don’t forget about the seasonal cleaning and maintenance that comes with owning a beach house. A little preventive care can go a long way in preserving your property. Every few months, check for signs of mold, mildew, or corrosion around windows, doors, and roofs. Keep gutters clear of debris to avoid water damage, and inspect the foundation for any issues caused by the saltwater.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Beach Without the Mess
A beach house is a retreat, and maintaining it should feel like part of the fun. With these cleaning and maintenance tips, you’ll be able to keep your beach house looking pristine, no matter how much sand and salt the ocean sends your way. Just remember: regular upkeep and a few small adjustments to your cleaning routine can protect your home and help you enjoy every moment in your coastal paradise.
