Living in Brunswick County and along the Carolina coast comes with beautiful beaches, a relaxed lifestyle, and plenty of sunshine — but it also means preparing for hurricane season every year. While most homeowners think of storm prep as boarding up windows and stocking supplies, cleaning your home plays a surprisingly big role in keeping your property safe, healthy, and ready for whatever the weather brings.
Here’s a hurricane season cleaning checklist designed specifically for Brunswick County homeowners.
1. Clear Out Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters are one of the biggest culprits of water damage during hurricanes. Leaves, pine needles, and coastal debris can block water flow, forcing rainwater into your roof or foundation.
✅ Clean gutters and downspouts before storms hit.
✅ Make sure water flows at least 3-4 feet away from your home’s foundation.
✅ Schedule regular checks throughout the season, since debris builds up fast in our coastal climate.
2. Secure and Clean Outdoor Areas
Patio furniture, grills, and even small yard décor can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. At the same time, outdoor mold and mildew thrive in humid Carolina weather.
✅ Deep clean outdoor furniture, cushions, and siding before storing.
✅ Move lightweight items into a garage or shed.
✅ Pressure wash patios and decks to prevent algae from becoming a slipping hazard after storms.
3. Inspect and Sanitize Refrigerators & Freezers
Power outages are common in Brunswick County during hurricanes, and spoiled food can quickly turn into a health hazard.
✅ Clean out old items and expired food before a storm.
✅ Wipe down shelves with disinfectant.
✅ Freeze bottles of water to keep food cold longer if power goes out.
4. Tackle Mold-Prone Areas in Advance
Humidity plus water intrusion is a recipe for mold. Once it starts, it spreads quickly and is tough to remove.
✅ Deep clean bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms with mold-preventative cleaners.
✅ Check under sinks and around windows for hidden moisture spots.
✅ Use a dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity.
5. Clean and Store Important Items
Storm flooding can damage irreplaceable belongings.
✅ Store documents, photos, and keepsakes in sealed containers.
✅ Clean and dry rugs or fabrics before storing them in airtight bags.
✅ Elevate anything stored in garages or crawl spaces.
6. Don’t Forget the Yard
Fallen branches and debris not only create a mess but can also clog storm drains and cause water backups.
✅ Trim dead branches from trees.
✅ Rake and bag leaves.
✅ Keep storm drains around your home clear of debris.
7. Post-Storm Cleaning Tips
Once the storm passes, a different type of cleaning is needed.
✅ Sanitize all kitchen surfaces if power outages caused food spoilage.
✅ Disinfect floors and walls that may have come into contact with floodwater.
✅ Check for hidden mold growth in walls, closets, and crawl spaces.
If the cleanup feels overwhelming, or if water damage has left your home in tough shape, calling in a professional cleaning company ensures your home is safe and restored quickly.
Why Cleaning Matters for Hurricane Season
Cleaning may not stop a storm, but it reduces damage, prevents health risks, and makes recovery faster. A well-prepared and well-maintained home stands a much better chance of weathering Carolina’s toughest hurricane season challenges.
Need Help Preparing Your Home?
At Coastal Cleaners, we proudly serve Brunswick County and surrounding areas with deep cleaning services that help homeowners prepare for (and recover from) hurricane season. Whether you need a one-time deep clean or ongoing maintenance, our team is here to keep your home fresh, safe, and ready.
Contact us today to schedule your pre- or post-storm cleaning service and take one more worry off your hurricane season checklist.
