Before you start unpacking, there’s one important step—cleaning your new home. Even if it looks tidy, dust, germs, and leftover grime from previous owners or movers can still be there.
A move-in cleaning checklist helps you remove dirt, allergens, and odors to start fresh. It’s much easier to clean before furniture and boxes take up space. Plus, knowing everything is spotless makes settling in more comfortable.
Let’s review what you must do to make your new home clean.
Preparation Steps
Gather Essential Cleaning Supplies
Before you start cleaning, make sure you have everything you need. Having the right supplies will save time and effort. Here’s a basic list:
- All-purpose cleaner – Works on most surfaces.
- Disinfectant – Essential for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Microfiber cloths – Better at trapping dust than paper towels.
- Mop and bucket – For deep cleaning floors.
- Vacuum cleaner – Picks up dirt, dust, and pet hair.
- Broom and dustpan – Great for quick cleanups.
- Glass cleaner – Keeps windows and mirrors streak-free.
- Scrub brushes – Helps with tough stains.
- Protective gloves – Keeps your hands safe from chemicals.
Having everything ready means you won’t stop mid-cleaning to grab supplies.
Develop a Cleaning Plan
Cleaning a whole house can feel overwhelming, but a plan makes it easier. Go one space at a time instead of jumping from room to room.
- Start with high-traffic areas – The kitchen and bathrooms collect the most dirt and germs.
- Clean from top to bottom – Dust ceiling fans and shelves first, then work down to floors.
- Do one task at a time – Wipe down all surfaces before moving to floors.
- Finish with floors – Vacuum, sweep, and mop last to pick up anything that falls while cleaning.
A step-by-step approach keeps you focused and helps you clean faster.
Room-by-Room Cleaning Guide
A thorough move-in clean makes your home feel fresh and truly yours. Here’s how to tackle each space efficiently.
Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most important areas to clean before moving in.
- Appliance Cleaning – Wipe down the refrigerator inside and out. Remove shelves and drawers to clean them separately. Use a degreaser or baking soda and vinegar to scrub off the buildup for the oven. Stovetops should be wiped with a damp cloth, and burners should be cleaned separately if removable. Run a cleaning cycle with vinegar for the dishwasher to remove any lingering odors or residue.
- Cabinets and Countertops – Wipe inside and outside cabinets with an all-purpose cleaner. Disinfect countertops, paying extra attention to crevices where crumbs can hide.
- Floors – Sweep thoroughly, then mop using a cleaner suited for your flooring type. If the floors are sticky, warm water and dish soap mix works well.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms can harbor bacteria, so deep cleaning is a must.
- Sanitize Fixtures – Scrub the toilet, focusing on the bowl, seat, and handle. Use disinfectant on sinks, bathtubs, and showers to remove soap scum and germs. Don’t forget to clean behind and around the base of the toilet.
- Mirror and Glass Cleaning – Spray glass cleaner on mirrors and wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
- Floor Care – Sweep or vacuum before mopping. If the floors are tiled, scrub the grout lines with a brush for a deep clean.
Bedrooms
Even if bedrooms look clean, dust can settle in overlooked areas.
- Dusting and Surface Cleaning – Wipe down light fixtures, shelves, and nightstands. Dust baseboards and window sills, which often collect dirt.
- Closet Preparation – Vacuum or wipe inside closets and drawers before filling them with clothes.
- Floor Maintenance – Vacuum carpets thoroughly or mop hard floors to remove dust and allergens.
Living Areas
Since these spaces are used extensively, cleaning before moving in ensures a fresh start.
- Dust and Wipe Surfaces – Clean entertainment centers, mantels, and built-in shelves. Dust ceiling fans and vents, which often collect dirt.
- Upholstery and Furniture Care – If furniture is included, vacuum sofas and chairs and check for any stains that need spot cleaning.
- Floor Cleaning – Sweep, mop, or vacuum based on the flooring type. Use a carpet cleaner for any stubborn stains.
Additional Spaces
Don’t forget these often-overlooked areas.
- Laundry Room – Wipe down washers and dryers, clean the lint trap, and check for detergent spills.
- Hallways and Entryways – Sweep and mop floors, dust light fixtures, and wipe down door handles and light switches.
- Outdoor Areas – Sweep porches, patios, and garages. If the previous owners left behind any debris, clear it out before settling in.
Taking the time to clean each area before unpacking makes the move-in day much smoother. Now, your home is truly ready for a fresh start.
Final Touches
After the deep cleaning, add the finishing touches. These will make your new home feel comfortable and fresh, as will yours.
Air Quality Improvement
New homes often have smells from past residents, paint, or cleaning products. The quickest way to freshen the air is by opening windows and letting fresh air in. Leave them open for a few hours to improve ventilation.
Consider using air purifiers—especially if you have allergies or pets for extra freshness. Houseplants like snake plants or peace lilies can also help improve indoor air quality naturally.
Pest Control Measures
Even the cleanest homes can have hidden pests. Before settling in, check for signs of unwanted guests:
- Look for droppings or chew marks in cabinets and storage areas.
- Inspect baseboards and corners for tiny cracks where bugs could enter.
- Place pest traps in areas where you suspect activity.
To prevent pests, use natural repellents. Try peppermint oil for spiders. For ants, mix baking soda and sugar. Consider calling a pest control service before unpacking if you see major issues.
Personalization Tips
Now comes the fun part—making the space feel like home. Small touches can go a long way in creating a warm, welcoming environment.
- Use familiar scents – Try candles, essential oils, or plug-in air fresheners with your favorite fragrance.
- Add cozy touches – A soft throw, comfy pillows, or a welcome mat can make any space warm and inviting.
- Decorate slowly – Set up furniture, hang photos, and pick decor that matches your style.
A clean, refreshed home lets you unpack and enjoy your new space. Now, everything is yours, top to bottom.
Make Your Move Stress-Free with The Cleaning Squad
Moving is already a big task—don’t let cleaning add to the stress. You can enjoy a spotless home with The Cleaning Squad’s Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning Services. You can also leave your old place looking its best.
Our expert team ensures every surface is cleaned, every corner is dust-free, and your space is move-in or move-out ready. When you move into a new home or prepare to give it up, we take care of the cleaning. This way, you can focus on what matters.
