Ultimate Pre-Work Trip Home Checklist: 10 Things to Do First
Key Takeaways
- Tidy main spaces like the bathroom, kitchen, and living room to make returning home feel easier and more peaceful
- Water plants, empty the trash, prep your pets, and double-check appliances
- Save energy (and avoid hazards) by unplugging what you can
- Think of this list as a minimalist weekly reset, even if you’re not traveling
Intro: You Don’t Have to Be a Clean Freak… But
You don’t need to be a clean freak, but if a clean, tidy, breathable space equals a fresh, relaxed, peaceful mind, then this post is for you. Even if you’re not the most organized person, this checklist can actually help you with your day-to-day or weekly routine. Call it the minimalist cleaner list. Little things can make a big difference in your home wellness or decluttering journey.
This isn’t about preparing for a 3-month vacation or some grand adventure. This is about what to do at home before a business trip, especially when you’re in and out of town often. I’ve been there. I know how much better it feels to return to a mindful space after a hectic work trip.
Let’s get into it.
1. Vacuum/Sweep the Floor — Especially the Bathroom
Vacuuming is the first thing I do before leaving. Especially the bathroom. Hair on the floor is not it. I do it after my glow-up routine most days anyway. And listen, it doesn’t matter if you live alone or not — coming home to a clean bathroom just hits different.
When I get home from a trip, the first thing I wanna do is hop in a steaming hot shower. And I want that bathroom to feel like a home spa. I often light up a candle, grab my fluffy towel, and voila!
Use a Roomba or whatever vacuum you got. I personally love my Roomba. It works wonders and saves me so much time. I can focus on something else while it’s running. Focus on the bathroom and living room if you’re short on time.
2. Wash the Dishes (Don’t Leave Them Sitting)
“Please do not leave your dishes unattended in the sink. They will be reported and possibly attract bugs.” No one wants to come home to a funky sink.
If you have and use a dishwasher, throw it in there and run. You won’t have to dig for your favorite mug among dirty dishes.
If there’s not much in your sink and you’re an old-school hand washer, just do a quick round after breakfast or lunch and leave it on the drain rack.
Scrub dirty pots — anything that could attract bugs or grow a nasty mold or smell while you’re gone. Trust me, the future you will thank you.
3. Fix the Couch
Yes, I’m talking about the throws, fluffy blankets, and pillows that dress up your favorite lounging spot. Fold them and arrange them nicely—You’ll be glad when the first thing you see is a welcoming couch.
Your couch is the vibe of the whole living room. If it looks messy, everything does.
4. Make the Bed
I honestly think you start the day feeling fresher when you make your bed right after getting up. It helps set the tone and gives your morning a little productive push. Just tap your pillows, toss the blanket over—and boom, you’re done!
5. Water the Plants
Dead plants are not a welcome-home vibe.
- Water them before you leave
- Top off self-watering pots
- Ask a friend to check in if you’re gone longer than a week
Low-maintenance options like snake plants or pothos are perfect for busy women who are not exactly plant moms (yet).
6. Empty the Coffee Machine & Kettle
If you’re a little bit meticulous (like me), go ahead and:
- Dump any leftover coffee or water
- Empty your kettle too
That way, nothing funky is sitting there while you’re gone.
7. Adjust the Thermostat
This depends on your climate, but:
- In summer, set it high enough to avoid mold or humidity
- In winter, low enough to save energy but still protect your pipes
Saving tip: During my last water heater inspection, the technician told me that if I’m gone for at least three days, I can put the water heater on autopilot. It saves energy and money. Of course, that depends on whether you have access to your water heater and if it has that specific feature.
8. Prep for Your Pets
Got fur babies? Make sure:
- Food and water dispensers are topped off
- The sitter or walker has everything they need
- Leave keys, vet info, treats, and a note just in case
You already know they’re gonna miss you.
9. Empty the Trash
Pretty self-explanatory. But make sure:
- Bathroom bins are emptied
- Kitchen scraps are out
10. Unplug What You Can
From Better Homes & Gardens: unplugging small appliances saves energy and lowers fire risk.
- Unplug the coffee maker, toaster, and TV
- Electrical toothbrush charger too
- Always unplug heated blankets or space heaters if you use them
Especially if you live somewhere with high energy rates — like Hawaii or Alaska.
Bonus: Weekly Reset Energy Tip
This isn’t just about leaving for trips. I started doing most of these weekly, and it helps so much with feeling like my life is not falling apart. Just a quick home reset. Especially if you work remotely or travel a lot.
Want the Printable Version?
I’m working on a simple printable checklist version of this you can use every week or before travel. Sign up for my newsletter and I’ll send it straight to you.
FAQs
Q: What should I do before leaving home for work-travel?
A: Prioritize the basics: trash, dishes, vacuuming, plants, and setting the thermostat. Then add extras like unplugging devices.
Q: Can I use this list for international travel or longer trips?
A: Yep! Add tasks like pausing deliveries, forwarding mail, and maybe adding plant-sitter or pet-sitter instructions.
Q: What if I forget something?
A: It’s okay. You’ll figure it out. The goal is progress, not perfection. Over time, this list gets easier.
Final Thoughts
Managing your home when traveling for work doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few easy habits, your space can actually be a part of your support system — not just something you come back to in chaos.
Try it before your next trip. Use it weekly if it helps. Either way, your home deserves a little love too.
