Cleaning Your New House After a Move

Published: October 15, 2024

Moving into a new home is exciting, but once the boxes are in, there’s often a major task awaiting you—cleaning. Whether it’s a brand-new house or a previously lived-in one, giving your space a thorough clean is essential. A deep clean not only makes your home more comfortable but also ensures a healthy environment for your family. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clean your new house efficiently after a move.

1. Start From the Top Down

When cleaning, it’s always best to begin at the top and work your way down. This ensures that any dust or debris that falls from ceilings, fans, or upper shelves doesn’t land on already cleaned areas. Here’s where to begin:

• Ceilings and Fans: Dust and wipe down ceiling fans, light fixtures, and any corners where cobwebs may form.
• Walls: Depending on their condition, the walls might need dusting or, in more severe cases, a wipe-down with mild soap.
• Windows and Curtains: Dust and clean windows inside and out, and wash or replace any old curtains. 

2. Clean the Kitchen Thoroughly

The kitchen is one of the most-used areas of a home, so it requires extra attention. You want to ensure every surface is spotless and sanitized.

• Countertops and Cabinets: Wipe down all surfaces with a non-abrasive cleaner. If the cabinets are sticky or have lingering odors, consider using a mixture of vinegar and water for a deep clean.
• Appliances: If the appliances come with the home, clean them thoroughly. Pay special attention to the fridge and oven. Remove refrigerator shelves and wash them in warm, soapy water. Wipe down the interior and check for any old food. For ovens, use an oven cleaner or a baking soda paste to tackle grease and grime.
• Sink and Faucets: Clean the sink using a disinfectant, and make sure the faucet is free of water spots or buildup. If the garbage disposal has a bad odor, run it with a few lemon slices and ice cubes to freshen it up.

3. Tackle the Bathrooms

Bathrooms can harbor a lot of germs, so it’s crucial to give them a deep clean before use. Here’s how to get your bathroom spotless:

• Shower and Tub: Scrub the shower, tub, and grout lines with a bathroom cleaner or a mix of baking soda and water.
• Toilets: Use a toilet cleaner and scrub the inside thoroughly. Wipe down the outside with a disinfectant.
• Sinks and Countertops: Wipe down sinks and countertops with an all-purpose cleaner. Clean mirrors with glass cleaner.
• Floors: Sweep and mop bathroom floors, paying attention to corners and behind the toilet where dust accumulates.

4. Deep Clean the Floors

The floors will likely need the most attention. The cleaning method depends on the type of flooring:

• Carpets: If the home has carpets, hire a professional carpet cleaner or rent a carpet cleaner machine.
• Hardwood or Tile: Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove dust and dirt, then mop with a cleaner appropriate for the floor type. For hardwood floors, avoid excessive water and use a cleaner designed specifically for wood.

5. Wipe Down Baseboards and Doors

Baseboards and doors are often overlooked but can collect a lot of dust and grime. Use a damp cloth or a sponge and a mild cleaning solution to wipe down all baseboards and doors. Pay close attention to doorknobs and handles, as they are high-touch surfaces that can harbor germs.

6. Air Out the New House

After all the cleaning, let your home breathe. Open all the windows to let in fresh air and reduce any lingering odors from cleaning products. If the weather doesn’t allow for open windows, use fans to circulate the air and air purifiers to remove any remaining dust or particles.

7. Don’t Forget the Little Things

Lastly, check and clean these often-forgotten areas:

• Vents and Filters: Clean or replace HVAC filters and wipe down vent covers.
• Light Switches and Outlets: These high-touch areas can carry a lot of germs. Wipe them down with a disinfectant.
• Inside Closets and Drawers: Dust and wipe down shelving inside closets and built-in drawers.

Cleaning your new home after a move can seem like a daunting task, but with a systematic approach, it becomes manageable and even satisfying. Starting from the top and working your way down ensures that nothing is missed. By giving special attention to key areas like the kitchen, bathrooms, and floors, you’ll be able to settle into a clean and comfortable home in no time. Take your time and enjoy the process!

For help with your move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northeast OH, Cleveland & Akron, or call (440) 613-7743 today.