Blog Post

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but before you settle in, it's crucial to make sure your space is clean and ready for your family. Whether you're moving into a newly built home or one that’s had previous tenants, a thorough move-in cleaning helps you start fresh. At Issa Maids, we specialize in making homes sparkle, and we’ve put together this guide to help you tackle move-in cleaning like a pro!

Why Move-In Cleaning is Essential

Even if your new home looks clean, you never know what dust, dirt, or bacteria may be lurking in unseen corners. A detailed cleaning ensures:

• Surfaces are disinfected and free of germs.
• Dust, allergens, and grime left behind by previous occupants are removed.
• You have peace of mind knowing that your home is truly clean and fresh.

Starting with a clean slate will make unpacking and settling in a much more pleasant experience!

Tips for Move-In Cleaning Success

Before diving into the task, keep these tips in mind to make your move-in cleaning efficient and effective:

• Clean Before You Move In: It’s much easier to clean an empty house without furniture or boxes in the way. Try to schedule your cleaning before the movers arrive.
• Work from Top to Bottom: Start with ceilings, light fixtures, and shelves, and work your way down to the floors to prevent dust from settling on already-cleaned surfaces.
• Use the Right Cleaning Products: Stock up on essential cleaning supplies such as all-purpose cleaner, disinfectant, microfiber cloths, and a vacuum with attachments.

Move-In Cleaning Checklist

This room-by-room checklist will ensure no spot is overlooked during your move-in cleaning session.

Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most used areas in any home, so a deep clean is a must before you start cooking.

• Clean the inside and outside of all cabinets and drawers.
• Wipe down countertops and backsplashes with an all-purpose cleaner.
• Sanitize the sink and clean faucets.
• Deep clean the oven and stovetop. For tough grease, use a specialized oven cleaner.
• Wipe down the microwave inside and out, using a vinegar-water solution for any stubborn stains.
• Clean the refrigerator and freezer. Remove shelves and drawers, wash with warm soapy water, and dry thoroughly before putting them back.
• Sweep and mop the kitchen floor, focusing on corners where dust and dirt gather.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms can harbor germs and bacteria, so a thorough disinfection is key.

• Clean and disinfect the sink, countertops, and faucets.
• Scrub the toilet inside and out, including the base and handle.
• Clean the shower or bathtub, focusing on removing soap scum and mildew. Pay attention to grout lines.
• Wipe down mirrors with a streak-free glass cleaner.
• Clean inside cabinets and drawers to remove any leftover debris or dust.
• Sweep and mop the floor, especially around the toilet and under the sink.

Bedrooms

You want your bedroom to be a peaceful retreat, so ensure it’s clean and fresh before moving in.

• Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures, and vents.
• Wipe down walls, baseboards, and door frames to remove dust or scuff marks.
• Clean windows and windowsills, wiping down tracks to remove dirt buildup.
• Vacuum or mop the floor. If the previous occupants had pets, consider a deep carpet clean.
• Wipe down closet shelves and vacuum the closet floor.

Living Room & Dining Room

These areas are high-traffic zones, so a good cleaning will help you start with a fresh, inviting space.

• Dust and clean ceiling fans, light fixtures, and vents.
• Wipe down walls and baseboards.
• Clean windows and windowsills, focusing on removing any dust or streaks.
• Vacuum or mop floors, moving any furniture to clean underneath if it’s already been delivered.

Laundry Room

Laundry rooms can accumulate dust and grime, especially around the washer and dryer.

• Wipe down the outside of the washer and dryer, including knobs and controls.
• Clean the lint trap in the dryer and vacuum behind the machines to remove dust and lint.
• Mop the laundry room floor, paying attention to any nooks and crannies.

Entryway

Your entryway is the first impression your home makes, so keep it tidy from the start.

• Clean the door, including the handle, and any glass or metal elements.
• Wipe down any shelving or coat racks.
• Sweep and mop the floor to remove any dust, dirt, or debris.

Additional Areas

• Garage: Sweep the floor and clear out any debris left behind. Wipe down any shelving units.
• Basement/Attic: Dust and sweep these storage areas, making sure to remove cobwebs.

Essential Cleaning Supplies

Before you begin, make sure you have these essential cleaning supplies on hand:

• All-purpose cleaner
• Glass cleaner
• Disinfectant spray or wipes
• Baking soda and vinegar (natural cleaners)
• Microfiber cloths
• Scrub brushes and sponges
• Vacuum with attachments
• Broom and mop
• Trash bags
• Rubber gloves

Conclusion

Starting fresh with a clean home sets the tone for a smooth and happy move-in experience. Following this move-in cleaning checklist will ensure that every room in your new space is sparkling clean, giving you a safe and healthy environment for your family.

If you’re pressed for time or feeling overwhelmed by the task, Issa Maids is here to help! We offer professional move-in cleaning services to make sure your new home is spotless and ready for you to enjoy. Contact us today to book your cleaning!