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Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but it’s also the perfect time to ensure your space is truly clean and ready for your family. A detailed move in cleaning checklist helps you remove any lingering dirt, allergens, or residue left by previous occupants, setting the stage for a healthy and comfortable beginning. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to deep cleaning your new home before you unpack, so you can settle in with peace of mind.
Based in Alexandria, VA, Division 1 Movers provide reliable local and long distance moving services. If you have questions while reviewing this guide, we are only a call or message away.
Why Move In Cleaning Is Essential
Even if your new home appears tidy, hidden dust, grime, and germs can linger in unexpected places. Deep cleaning before you unpack protects your belongings, improves indoor air quality, and helps you settle in faster. By following a structured checklist, you’ll ensure every surface is addressed, making your move-in experience smoother and healthier.
Move In Cleaning vs. Routine Cleaning
Move in cleaning is more thorough than regular upkeep. It targets areas that are often missed, such as inside cabinets, behind appliances, and deep within carpets. This approach removes residue from previous residents and creates a truly fresh environment for your family.
Pre-Move In Preparation: Gather Supplies and Plan Ahead
Before you begin, assemble all necessary cleaning supplies and plan your approach. Cleaning is most effective when the home is empty, so try to schedule your deep clean before your belongings arrive. Packing a dedicated cleaning kit ensures you have everything on hand when you need it.
- All-purpose cleaner, disinfectant, and glass cleaner
- Sponges, microfiber cloths, and paper towels
- Broom, mop, vacuum, and dustpan
- Scrub brushes, crevice tools, and scouring pads
- Trash bags and gloves
- Step ladder for high surfaces
- New air filters for HVAC system
With your supplies ready, you’re set to tackle each room efficiently and thoroughly.
Room-by-Room Move In Cleaning Checklist
Approaching your cleaning by room ensures no area is overlooked. Start at the top of each room and work your way down, finishing with the floors. This method prevents dust and debris from resettling on freshly cleaned surfaces.
Click this link for a Printable version of the Move In Cleaning Checklist!
Kitchen: Sanitize for a Safe Start
The kitchen is a high-traffic area that requires special attention. Food residue, grease, and hidden crumbs can accumulate in unexpected places. Focus on both visible and hidden surfaces to ensure a truly clean kitchen.
- Clean the inside, outside, and back side of the refrigerator before placing food inside
- Wash kitchen sinks and disinfect the dishwasher to eliminate built-up grime.
- Wipe down and disinfect countertops, cabinet doors, and handles before unpacking kitchenware.
- Clean inside cabinets, drawers, and pantry shelves with a damp cloth and all-purpose cleaner.
- Run the dishwasher on an empty cycle and deep clean the stove ventilation hood and backsplash tile/grout.
- Sweep and mop the floor last, ensuring all crumbs and spills are removed.
Bathrooms: Eliminate Germs and Residue
Bathrooms are critical for move in cleaning. Focus on sanitizing all surfaces, removing soap scum, and ensuring fixtures sparkle. Pay special attention to high-touch areas and hidden corners.
- Scrub toilets completely inside and out using eco-friendly general purpose cleaner and scouring pad.
- Use crevice brushes on hard-to-reach toilet areas for a sparkling, germ-free result.
- Scour sinks with scouring sponge, crevice brush, and paste; clean faucets with glass cleaner.
- Disinfect showers, tubs, and grout. Remove any mildew or soap scum from tiles and glass doors.
- Wipe down cabinets, drawers, and medicine cabinets inside and out.
- Sanitize light switches, doorknobs, and towel racks.
- Vacuum and mop the floor, paying attention to corners and behind the toilet.
Bedrooms and Living Areas: Fresh and Allergen-Free
Bedrooms and living spaces often accumulate dust, pet hair, and allergens. A thorough cleaning ensures a welcoming environment for your family. Don’t forget closets and less obvious surfaces.
- Dust ceilings, crown molding, ceiling fans, and air vents from top to bottom.
- Wipe down walls, baseboards, doors, and window sills to remove dust and fingerprints.
- Clean inside closets, including shelves and floors, before unpacking clothes or items.
- Vacuum carpets and area rugs thoroughly. Consider professional cleaning if there are stains or lingering odors.
- Sweep and mop hard floors, ensuring all debris is removed before placing furniture or rugs.
Entryways, Hallways, and Utility Spaces: Don’t Overlook the Details
These transitional spaces are often neglected but can leave a strong impression. Focus on removing dust, dirt, and scuff marks from high-traffic areas.
- Clean light fixtures, switch plates, and door frames.
- Wipe down baseboards and remove any cobwebs from corners.
- Vacuum or mop floors, paying attention to entry mats and closet floors.
- Check and clean utility closets, laundry areas, and storage spaces.
Final Touches: The Last Steps Before Unpacking
Once the main cleaning is complete, a few final steps can make all the difference. These finishing touches ensure the home is truly move-in ready and help you avoid last-minute surprises as you settle in.
- Replace any burned-out light bulbs and check that all fixtures are working.
- Install a brand new air filter in the heating and cooling system to improve air quality.
- Wash all linens and bedsheets prior to use to remove any dust or allergens.
- Do a final walk-through to check for missed spots or needed touch-ups before unpacking.
Tips for Efficient Move In Cleaning
Move in cleaning can be a big job, but with the right approach, you can make it manageable and even enjoyable. Here are some practical tips to help you stay organized and efficient:
- Work from the top down in each room to avoid re-cleaning surfaces.
- Enlist help from family, friends, or professional cleaners for larger homes or tight timelines.
- Use a checklist to track progress and ensure no area is overlooked.
- Address repairs or touch-ups (like wall scuffs or nail holes) before cleaning to avoid rework.
- Schedule your cleaning before movers arrive to access all surfaces easily.
Commonly Missed Areas in Move In Cleaning
Even the most diligent cleaners can overlook certain spots. Focusing on these commonly missed areas can make a significant difference in the final result and help you avoid lingering odors or allergens.
- Behind and under appliances (refrigerator, stove, washer, dryer)
- Inside and on top of cabinets and closets
- Baseboards, door frames, and window tracks
- Light fixtures, ceiling fans, and air vents
- Garage, basement, and outdoor storage areas
Move In Cleaning Checklist: Printable Version
For your convenience, here’s a printable move in cleaning checklist you can use to track your progress. Customize it to fit your home’s unique needs and ensure nothing is missed as you settle in.
- Kitchen: Clean appliances, cabinets, countertops, sink, and floors
- Bathrooms: Scrub toilets, sinks, showers, mirrors, and floors
- Bedrooms: Dust, clean closets, wipe walls, and vacuum/mop floors
- Living Areas: Dust, clean windows, wipe surfaces, and vacuum/mop floors
- Entryways/Hallways: Clean light fixtures, baseboards, and floors
- Utility Spaces: Clean laundry area, storage, and replace air filters
- Final Touches: Replace bulbs, wash linens, and do a final walk-through
How Division 1 Movers Can Help with Your Move In
Move in cleaning is just one part of a successful transition. Division 1 Movers in Alexandria, VA, offer reliable local and long distance moving services to make your move seamless from start to finish. Our team can help you pack, transport, and even coordinate cleaning services, so you can focus on settling into your new home. With our attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can trust us to handle your move with care.
If you’re preparing for a move and want to ensure every detail is covered, contact Division 1 Moving today. Let us help you start your new chapter in a truly clean, welcoming home.
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