Moving into a new home is exciting, but before you unpack and settle in, one thing is essential—a thorough cleaning. Even if the previous occupants cleaned before leaving, you never know what’s been left behind. Dust, grime, and hidden germs can linger in places you wouldn’t expect, so a proper move-in clean ensures a fresh, hygienic start.
This checklist will guide you through every area of your new home, making sure it’s spotless and ready for a comfortable beginning.
Why Move-In Cleaning is Important
A new home may look clean at first glance, but hidden dirt and bacteria often remain. Previous tenants may have skipped deep cleaning, leaving behind dust, pet dander, or grime in hard-to-reach places. If the home was vacant for a while, it’s likely collected dust and stale odours.
A thorough move-in clean gives you peace of mind, ensures your space is free from allergens, and sets the foundation for easier maintenance.
Room-by-Room Move-In Cleaning Checklist
- Kitchen
Kitchens are one of the most used areas in a home, and deep cleaning before moving in prevents food contamination and removes lingering odours.
- Cabinets & Drawers – Wipe inside and outside with a disinfectant. Check for crumbs and sticky residues.
- Worktops & Backsplash – Disinfect and remove grease stains from tiles and surfaces.
- Sink & Tap – Descale, scrub, and sanitise to eliminate bacteria buildup.
- Oven & Stove – Clean burnt-on grease, food spills, and filters from the extractor hood.
- Fridge & Freezer – Wipe shelves and drawers with a mix of warm water and vinegar before restocking.
- Floors – Sweep and mop to remove dirt left from previous occupants or moving.
- Bathrooms
Bathrooms can harbour bacteria and limescale, making a deep clean essential before use.
- Toilet – Disinfect the entire toilet, including behind and underneath.
- Sink & Countertops – Scrub and wipe down all surfaces.
- Shower & Bathtub – Remove soap scum and limescale from glass, tiles, and faucets.
- Mirrors & Fixtures – Polish for a streak-free shine.
- Cupboards & Storage Areas – Wipe down interiors before storing toiletries.
- Floors & Grout – Scrub grout lines to remove mould and bacteria buildup.
- Bedrooms & Living Areas
These spaces may not seem dirty, but dust and allergens accumulate in hidden corners.
- Wardrobes & Storage Units – Wipe inside and out before filling with clothes.
- Windows & Sills – Clean glass, frames, and tracks to remove dust and grime.
- Light Fixtures & Ceiling Fans – Dust and wipe down to improve air quality.
- Walls & Skirting Boards – Remove marks and dust that may have built up.
- Floors & Carpets – Vacuum thoroughly and consider steam cleaning if carpets smell musty.
- Entryway & Hallways
High-traffic areas need extra attention to ensure a fresh feel.
- Doors & Handles – Wipe down all doors, handles, and light switches.
- Shoe Racks & Storage Areas – Clean and organise spaces for an uncluttered entrance.
- Floors – Sweep and mop or vacuum to remove tracked-in dirt.
Extra Move-In Cleaning Tips
- Use Non-Toxic Cleaners – Opt for eco-friendly cleaning products to avoid harsh chemicals in your new home.
- Check Air Vents & Filters – Dusty air vents reduce air quality and should be cleaned before moving in.
- Freshen Up Drains – Pour baking soda and vinegar down sinks to clear blockages and remove odours.
- Sanitise High-Touch Areas – Light switches, doorknobs, and remote controls should be disinfected to eliminate germs.
- Deep Clean Before Unpacking – It’s much easier to clean empty spaces before furniture and belongings are in place.
Why Professional Move-In Cleaning Might Be Worth It
Hiring professionals can make the process easier if time is limited or the home needs extensive cleaning. They have the right equipment for deep cleaning carpets, sanitising kitchens and bathrooms, and tackling areas that might be overlooked.
For properties that have been vacant for a while or have visible signs of neglect, professional cleaning ensures a fresh start without the hassle of doing it yourself.
Final Thought: A Fresh Start Begins with a Clean Slate
A new home should feel fresh, welcoming, and completely yours. Taking the time to clean before unpacking ensures that you start on the right foot, free from leftover grime or hidden mess. Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional, a thorough move-in clean sets the stage for a comfortable and stress-free transition into your new space.
Want more cleaning tips? Read our guides, like “End of Tenancy Cleaning: What Landlords & Tenants Need to Know“.
FAQs
How soon before moving in should I clean?
Ideally, clean a few days before moving in so the space is fresh and ready when your belongings arrive. If that’s not possible, clean as much as you can before unpacking.
Do new-build homes need cleaning before moving in?
Yes, even brand-new homes can have dust from construction, packaging residue, and chemical smells from fresh paint or carpets. A quick clean improves air quality and removes leftover debris.
What’s the best way to remove old smells from a home?
Air out the space by opening windows, clean carpets and soft furnishings, and use baking soda or vinegar to neutralise lingering odours.
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Recommended books for further reading:
- Not Just a Cleaner
- Clean My Space: The Secret to Cleaning Better, Faster, and Loving Your Home Every Day
- The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying: A simple, effective way to banish clutter forever
- The Easy Life: Quick ways to clean and manage your home all year round
- The Naturally Clean Home: 150 Super Easy Herbal Formulas for Green Cleaning
Recommended cleaning products in our shop:
- Coconut Dish Brush
- Reusable Heavy Duty Cleaner Spray Bottle 750ml
- 5 Pack Reusable Bamboo Fibre Kitchen Cleaning Cloths
- Natural Loofah Dishwashing Sponge (Pack of 5)
- 5 Pack Bamboo Cleaning Cloths with Reusable Bag- All from Natural Fabric
