Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to cleaning a house before moving in and making sure your new space is clean and ready for you to unpack and settle in.  That’s where pre-move cleaning comes into play. By taking the time to give your new home a thorough cleaning before you start moving in, you’ll not only create a fresh and welcoming environment, but you’ll also set the stage for a smooth transition into your new abode.

So, let’s dive into some tips to help you tackle this task efficiently and effectively!

Tip 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

First things first, you’ll need to gather all the necessary cleaning supplies and equipment. Make sure you have all the essential supplies on hand, such as:

• Microfiber cloths
• All-purpose cleaner
• Glass cleaner
• Toilet bowl cleaner
• Scrub brushes
• Mop and bucket
• Vacuum cleaner
• Rubber gloves (for those tough jobs)

Having everything you need within easy reach will make the cleaning process much smoother and more efficient.

Tip 2: Start with the Basics

Now that you’ve got your supplies ready, let’s start with the basics. Dust and wipe down all surfaces, including shelves, windowsills, and baseboards. Vacuum or sweep the floors, and clean the windows and mirrors until they’re sparkling clean. This will give you a fresh canvas to work with.

Tip 3: Don’t Forget the Walls and Ceilings

While it’s easy to focus on the horizontal surfaces during a cleaning session, don’t overlook the walls and ceilings. These oft-neglected areas can harbor dust, cobwebs, and even grease buildup. Use a damp microfiber cloth or a vacuum attachment to gently wipe down walls and ceilings, removing any unsightly blemishes or debris.

Caution: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools on walls and ceilings, as they can strip paint or damage surfaces. Stick to gentle cleaning solutions and soft cloths to keep your walls and ceilings in good condition.

Tip 4: Deep Clean the Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most important areas to clean thoroughly. Scrub down all the appliances, including the oven, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Don’t forget to clean the cabinets and countertops, and give the sinks and faucets a good sanitizing. And while you’re at it, give the microwave a good cleaning too!

Tip 5: Tackle the Bathrooms

Bathrooms can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right approach, you’ll have them sparkling in no time. Disinfect the toilets, showers, and tubs, and don’t forget to clean the mirrors and countertops. Replace any old shower curtains or liners with new ones, and give the tiles and grout a good scrubbing.

Tip 6: Focus on the Floors

Floors can be a breeding ground for dirt and grime, so it’s essential to give them a deep cleaning. Mop hard floors, shampoo carpets, and clean the grout and tiles. Don’t forget to spot clean any stains or spills too!

Tip 7: Air it Out

After all that cleaning, your new home might be feeling a bit stuffy. Open up those windows and let in some fresh air! Change the air filters if needed, and consider using air purifiers or dehumidifiers to keep the air clean and fresh.

Tip 8: Clean the Closets and Storage Spaces

Don’t forget to clean out those closets and storage spaces too! Wipe down the shelves and racks, vacuum or sweep the floors, and remove any items left behind by the previous owners.

Tip 9: Disinfect High-Touch Areas

Pay special attention to high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and handles. Give them a good disinfecting to ensure that your new home is as germ-free as possible. Don’t forget to clean remote controls and other electronics too, and consider replacing outlet covers for a fresh look.

Tip 10: Clean the Laundry Room

The laundry room can often be overlooked, but it’s an important area to keep clean. Wipe down the washer and dryer, clean the lint traps and vents, and mop or sweep the floors.

Tip 11: Don’t Forget the Outdoor Spaces

Your cleaning efforts shouldn’t stop at the front door. Sweep porches, patios, and decks, clean outdoor furniture, and remove any cobwebs or debris from the exterior of your new home.

Tip 12: Schedule Professional Services

While you can certainly tackle many pre-move cleaning tasks yourself, there may be areas that require specialized equipment or expertise. In these cases, it’s worth considering hiring professional cleaning services. Instead of trying to tackle every nook and cranny on your own, schedule a deep cleaning from a professional house cleaning services provider. They have the right tools, products, and experience to ensure a truly thorough and comprehensive clean.

From deep-cleaning carpets and upholstery to scrubbing those hard-to-reach areas, a professional cleaning service can take the burden off your shoulders and ensure your new home is spotless and ready for move-in. This is especially valuable if you’re short on time or dealing with a particularly large or cluttered space.

Bonus Tip: We recommend letting experts handle your next move. Professional movers in Chicago can pack, load, and deliver your belongings safely, saving you time and hassle while you focus on settling into your new home. From proper packing to careful transportation, they handle everything with expertise.

Tip 13: Plan for Post-Move Maintenance

Once you’ve completed your pre-move cleaning blitz, it’s essential to establish a routine for maintaining a clean and tidy home moving forward. Set aside dedicated time each week for tasks like vacuuming, dusting, and cleaning bathrooms and kitchens. Stay organized by designating storage spaces for cleaning supplies and creating a cleaning schedule or checklist to ensure nothing gets overlooked.

Conclusion

Pre-move cleaning may seem like a daunting task, but trust us, it’s well worth the effort. By taking the time to thoroughly clean and prepare your new home before unpacking, you’ll not only create a fresh and welcoming environment, but you’ll also set yourself up for a smoother transition into your new living space.

Implement the tips and strategies discussed above, and you’ll be well on your way to a clean and organized home that you can truly call your own. Happy moving, and may your new abode be a haven of cleanliness and comfort!

If you need help cleaning your new Chicago home before moving in, book House Keep Up‘s convenient move-in cleaning services. Our team of professionals will ensure a stress-free start in your new abode.