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Housekeeping is the last thing you want to do when you get back from a trip, so here are five ways to get your home ready before you set out:

Get the best house cleaning possible. When you come home from your time away, it's refreshing to walk into a house already clean and waiting for you. Come home, unpack, and relax without worrying over the mess you left behind by making sure the house is clean before you ever leave home.

Empty the fridge of perishables. Also, don't go on a big grocery trip right before you leave. If something happens while you're away that knocks out power, you could come back to a disaster of a kitchen and an intolerable odor. Make sure anything that will rot is cooked or thrown out.

Empty the sink, dishwasher, and washer and dryer. Get everything clean while you're still in the rush of getting ready to go.

Wash all of the dishes and put them away. Clear out the washer and dryer of clothes; fold them or hang them and put them away for when you return. You'll start with a fresh, clean slate when you get back!

Empty the trash. Not only should you go ahead and empty all the trash cans in your house, but also, if you're going to be gone during your weekly pick-up, take the trash out to the curb to be taken off or take it to a local dump. This way, you won't come home to smells you weren't expecting.

Unplug everything. It might take a little time and effort, but it will be well worth it. The risk of fire or damage to your electronics while your gone will be mostly removed, and that will be peace of mind for you.

When you know your home is ready, coming home will be especially pleasant. Enjoy your trip, wherever your path may lead!