Moving to a new space is a great opportunity for a fresh start. It’s always exciting: a chance to decorate and make the space all your own. But when it comes time to move, there’s always a ton to do. One big chore when moving is the move-in cleaning—a massive task that involves sweeping, scrubbing, and sanitizing. Fortunately, with help from Taskers, we’ve put together a move-in cleaning checklist to make the day as smooth as possible!
Cleaning Supplies For a New House
To start, here are the supplies you’ll need to get started with your cleaning:
- Cloths
- Sponges
- Vacuum cleaner
- Cleaners (glass, bathroom, all-purpose, etc)
- Rubber gloves
- Broom and mop
- White vinegar
- Toilet brush
- Paper towels
- Disinfecting wipes
House Deep Cleaning Checklist: Before Move-In
If you need a checklist to clean your house in one day, check out this list that breaks it down by room. We think going room by room is the best way to clean a house before moving in!
Kitchen Move-In Cleaning Checklist
- Clean the inside outside, and back side of the refrigerator
- Clean kitchen cabinets
- Wash sinks
- Sweep and mop floors
- Clean and disinfect dishwasher
- Clean stove and oven
- Clean microwave and other small appliances
Bedroom Move-In Cleaning Checklist
- Clean light switches
- Wash windows
- Sweep and mop floors
- Wash all linens and bedsheets
- Sweep, mop and/or vacuum floors
- Wash and paint walls
- Replace light bulbs/fixtures
Bathroom Move-In Cleaning Checklist
- Apply grout cleaner on tiles
- Clean shower and toilet for stubborn stains
- Clean mirrors
- Disinfect surfaces
- Clean shower curtain
- Organize drawers and cabinets
- Remove any mold or grime
Common and Living Areas Move-In Cleaning Checklist
- Dust all surfaces and items
- Wipe tables and surfaces
- Wash the walls
- Sweep/vacuum/mop floors
- Wash sofa and furniture coverings
- Wash pillows (if machine washable)
- Organize drawers and shelves
Moving Into a New House—Cleaning Tips
- Do pest control before move in
One essential thing often missed by house deep-cleaning checklists is the need to check for pests. Flies, roaches, termites, and other insects can be hiding in your home before you arrive. Before moving in, check baseboards, attics, and other hard-to-reach areas for signs of bugs (or even rats or mice).
- If needed, paint before moving in all the furniture
It’s best to paint before you move everything in. If possible, wash all walls in your new space, prime them and apply a fresh coat of paint. This will prevent you from getting paint on your furniture and ensure the rooms look spacious and fresh!
- Change the air filters
These are often overlooked when moving to a new place! For the best air quality and airflow, ensure you have new air filters installed when you move in. Simply toss out your old filters if they’re dirty (maybe alongside all those old moving boxes).
- Change the toilet seat
This is optional depending on the quality of your toilet seat, but to stay as hygienic as possible, it’s recommended to switch out your toilet seat when you move in.
- Replace lightbulbs
Replace the bulbs throughout your home to make sure your home is well-lit! As a plus, good lighting will help show off how clean and sparkling your new space is.
Pre-Move-In Cleaning Services
Ready to get cleaning? If you’re daunted by the whole process, consider hiring a Tasker to help with your pre-move-in cleaning! Taskers are experienced and help make cleaning a breeze. Try Taskrabbit today!
