Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a set of responsibilities that are often overlooked. One of the most important tasks you should prioritize before unpacking is cleaning. Whether you’re moving into a house, an apartment, or a rental, neglecting to clean can expose your family to allergens, germs, and pests.
Before your boxes hit the floor, it’s critical to deep clean key areas and fixtures. Doing so ensures your new home is safe, fresh, and comfortable from day one. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 7 essential things to clean before moving into your new home. These areas often get overlooked but play a huge role in creating a clean, healthy living space.
1. Kitchen Fixtures and Appliances: Cabinets, Stove, Refrigerator, and Counters
The kitchen is the heart of your home, but it can also be a hotspot for dirt, bacteria, and food residue from previous occupants. Deep cleaning kitchen appliances and fixtures is essential before you start preparing meals.
Cabinets: Begin by vacuuming the back corners and shelves to remove dust, crumbs, and potential insect droppings. After vacuuming, wipe down all surfaces with warm water and mild soap. Don’t forget cabinet doors and handles, which often harbor fingerprints and grease.
Appliances: Refrigerators, stoves, ovens, and microwaves should be thoroughly cleaned inside and out. Move appliances if possible to clean underneath and behind them. Hair, dust, and food particles can accumulate in these hard-to-reach spots, and refrigerator intake filters often hide mold or dust buildup.
Counters and sinks: Sanitize countertops and sinks using a disinfectant or a mixture of water and vinegar. Make sure to pay attention to corners and areas near faucets where grime tends to build up. A clean kitchen ensures your first meals in your new home are safe and enjoyable.
2. Outlets and Switches
Electrical outlets and switches are frequently touched surfaces that collect dirt, oil, and germs. Cleaning them is essential to reduce the spread of bacteria in your new home.
Use a small brush or an old toothbrush dipped in rubbing alcohol to scrub outlets and switches. After cleaning, wait at least 30 seconds for the alcohol to evaporate before plugging in devices. This simple step improves hygiene and reduces the risk of contact with harmful bacteria.
3. Bathroom Vents and Exhaust Fans
Bathrooms are notorious for accumulating moisture, dust, and allergens. Before moving in, clean vents and exhaust fans to ensure proper air circulation and minimize respiratory issues.
Remove vent covers and wash them with a brush or microfiber duster. Use a vacuum hose attachment to remove cobwebs, dust, and debris inside the vent. Neglecting these areas can cause sinus problems, allergic reactions, and other health concerns, especially for children or individuals with respiratory conditions.
4. Garage Floor and Shelves
The garage is often an afterthought during moving, yet it can be a haven for pests such as mice, rats, and insects. Cleaning your garage before unpacking boxes is crucial.
Start by sweeping or using a leaf blower to remove dirt, cobwebs, and debris. Afterward, clean shelves and surfaces thoroughly. Consider using repellents, such as sonic plug-ins or sprays, to prevent pests from entering your home. Maintaining a clean garage protects your belongings and creates a safer environment for your family.
5. Light Fixtures
Light fixtures, including dome lights, chandeliers, and recessed lights, are prone to collecting dust and allergens. Cleaning them before moving in will improve air quality and lighting in your home.
For recessed lights, use an extendable duster or attach a cloth to a broom handle for hard-to-reach areas. Dome lights may need to be removed for proper cleaning. If using glass cleaner or water, ensure the fixture is completely dry before reinstalling to prevent staining or mold growth. Clean light fixtures enhance the overall brightness and freshness of your new space.
6. Windows, Mirrors, and Other Glass
Glass surfaces are often overlooked during pre-move cleaning, yet they harbor germs and smudges that can impact your home’s cleanliness.
Use a streak-free glass cleaner or a DIY solution made from vinegar and water to clean mirrors and windows. Afterward, apply a sanitizing spray to eliminate bacteria. Clean glass not only improves your home’s aesthetics but also ensures a healthier environment, free from germs and allergens.
7. Ceiling Fan Blades
Ceiling fans can accumulate dust, mold spores, and allergens over time, particularly in homes that have been unoccupied for a while. Cleaning the fan blades is essential for maintaining air quality.
If the fan is within reach, wipe the blades with a damp cloth or even an old sock. For high or hard-to-reach fans, use a duster with an extendable arm and exercise caution with ladders. Starting with clean ceiling fans ensures your new home circulates fresh, dust-free air, making it comfortable from day one.
Additional Tips for a Healthy Move-In
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Start from top to bottom: Dust and debris fall as you clean, so begin with ceilings, fans, and upper shelves before moving to lower surfaces.
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Use the right cleaning products: Avoid harsh chemicals on delicate surfaces; opt for eco-friendly or mild cleaning solutions.
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Wear protective gear: Gloves, masks, and safety glasses can prevent exposure to dust, mold, and cleaning agents.
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Check for hidden areas: Behind large furniture, under sinks, and inside closets can harbor dirt and pests.
By thoroughly cleaning these seven key areas, you create a safe, fresh, and welcoming environment for yourself and your family. Taking the time to clean your new home properly before moving in prevents exposure to allergens, bacteria, and pests, setting a strong foundation for comfortable living.
