Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but before you unpack and settle in, a deep clean is a must. Even if the space appears clean, there can be remnants of dust, allergens, and deposits left over from previous tenants or construction. A fresh start begins clean slate, ensuring a healthier and more comfortable environment for you and your family.
This guide will take you step by step through an in-depth move-in cleaning, providing practical advice and a structured move-in cleaning checklist to make your new place spotless from day one.
Why Move-In Cleaning Matters
Moving can be hectic, but starting off in a truly clean space makes all the difference. Deep cleaning before you unpack ensures your home meets your standards, eliminating hidden grime and potential allergens. Here’s why it’s essential:
Clears out unseen dirt and allergens from carpets, vents, and surfaces.
Sanitizes high-contact areas such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.
Eliminates bacteria and germs left by previous occupants.
Gets rid of chemical residues from construction or past cleaning routines.
Creates a fresh and welcoming space before furniture and belongings are arranged.
By taking time to deep clean now, you’ll set yourself up for a more comfortable and healthier living environment.
Getting Ready: Move-In Cleaning Essentials
Before diving into your move-in cleaning checklist, make sure you have the right tools on hand:
✔ Microfiber cloths and sponges
✔ All-purpose cleaner and disinfectant spray
✔ Baking soda and white vinegar (for natural cleaning)
✔ Mop and vacuum with HEPA filter
✔ Glass cleaner
✔ Rubber gloves and face mask (for dust-heavy areas)
✔ Trash bags for any leftover debris
✔ Scrub brushes and grout cleaner for deep cleaning
✔ Essential oils (like tea tree or lemon) for a natural fresh scent
Taking the time to clean thoroughly before unpacking ensures you’re not simply covering up dirt. Instead, you’re creating a truly fresh space.
Room-by-Room Move-In Cleaning Checklist
1. Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most used areas in any home, making it crucial to start with a deep clean. Food particles, grease, and residue from previous occupants can accumulate in hidden areas, leading to unwanted odors and bacteria buildup. By thoroughly cleaning before you move in, you can ensure that your food preparation area is safe and hygienic.
✔ Wipe down cabinets (inside and out)
✔ Scrub and disinfect the sink and faucet
✔ Sweep and mop floors
✔ Check and replace filters in range hoods if needed
✔ Disinfect high-touch areas like cabinet handles and switches
Pro tip: Pay special attention to hidden grease buildup inside the range hood and behind the stove. Using a degreaser will help remove stubborn grime and prevent unwanted odors from lingering in your kitchen.
2. Bathroom
Your bathroom should be a place of relaxation and cleanliness, so ensure it’s spotless before use. Moist areas can harbor bacteria and mold, making attention to detail essential. Cleaning it properly now will prevent the need for frequent scrubbing later.
✔ Scrub the bathtub, shower walls, and tiles
✔ Disinfect the sink and toilet (inside and out)
✔ Clean mirrors and glass surfaces
✔ Wipe down cabinets and shelves
✔ Mop and disinfect the floor
✔ Replace old toilet seats for a completely fresh start
✔ Deep clean grout and check for mold buildup
Pro tip: To prevent mold and mildew, dry all surfaces thoroughly after cleaning. Consider using a mold-resistant spray in high-moisture areas to keep your bathroom fresh longer.
3. Bedrooms
A clean bedroom ensures a comfortable and restful night’s sleep. Dust and allergens will accumulate in corners, under furniture, and in your closets, so you’ll want to do a thorough cleaning before settling in.
✔ Dust all surfaces, including closet shelves
✔ Wipe down light switches and doorknobs
✔ Vacuum carpets or mop hard floors
✔ Clean windows and sills
✔ Check air vents and replace filters if necessary
✔ Sanitize mattress surfaces and air out the room before setting up bedding
Pro tip: Steam clean carpets and upholstery if the previous occupant had pets to remove lingering dander and allergens. Adding an air purifier can further improve air quality and help you sleep better in your new home.
4. Living Areas & Common Spaces
These areas gather the most dust and debris over time. Since they are high-traffic spaces, ensuring a deep clean before moving in will make maintenance easier in the long run.
✔ Dust and wipe down baseboards and moldings
✔ Clean light fixtures and ceiling fans
✔ Vacuum or mop floors
✔ Wipe down windows, doors, and handles
✔ Sanitize switches, remotes, and high-touch surfaces
✔ Inspect vents and replace air filters if needed
✔ Freshen up the air by diffusing essential oils or opening windows
Pro tip: Ceiling fan blades accumulate dust quickly, use a pillowcase to clean each blade without spreading dust throughout the room.
Final Checks Before Settling In
Along with your usual cleaning, there are some other areas that are easily overlooked but can impact the cleanliness and safety of your new house. Inspect attic and basement areas for dust, cobwebs or signs of pests. Check behind large appliances and inside utility closets for hidden dirt and debris. Also check light switches and electrical outlets for grime accumulation, these surfaces are often touched but infrequently cleaned. By taking these additional steps, you will ensure that your home is truly move-in ready and free from unseen dirt and allergens.
Before you unpack, also make sure to:
Take out any trash from the cleaning process.
Open windows to air out cleaning product smells.
Place doormats at entrances to minimize dirt tracking.
Double-check for any maintenance issues or leaks.
Consider scheduling a professional deep cleaning if the home requires extra attention.
Make Move-In Cleaning Effortless with Squeaky Cleaning
Moving into a new home should feel like the start of an exciting new chapter, not a never-ending cleaning marathon. At Squeaky Cleaning, we turn the daunting task of move-in cleaning into a seamless, stress-free experience. Our expert team dives deep into every nook and cranny, eliminating hidden dust, rejuvenating tired carpets, and sanitizing every high-touch surface, to ensure your home is not only spotless but truly ready for your fresh start.
With our flexible scheduling, top-tier cleaning professionals, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, we’re here to handle the details so you don’t have to. Step into your new home with confidence and peace of mind, knowing that Squeaky Cleaning has taken care of everything.
Book your move-in cleaning today and discover the difference a truly meticulous clean can make!