Why a Move-In Cleaning Checklist Matters
Whether you’re moving into your first apartment or your forever home, one thing is universal: the need for a deep clean. Newly built houses can collect dust, construction residue or odors, while old homes easily hide dust and grime. A task-based cleaning checklist keeps you organized even when your brain is fried from the stress of moving. We’ve got you covered from vents to baseboards and even have all the right all-purpose solutions, floor cleaners and tools to make the process faster and easier.
The Ultimate Move-In Cleaning Checklist
Let’s tackle your new home by cleaning task instead of by room, that way nothing gets overlooked.
1. Dusting the Whole House
Before unpacking, grab a duster or microfiber cloth. Start from the ceiling and work downward to prevent dust from resettling. For thick or stuck-on dust, don’t be afraid to wet your microfiber cloth to make it more effective at picking it all up.
Don’t forget to dust:
- Ceilings and crown molding
- Ceiling fans and light fixtures
- Air vents and return grates
- Walls and corners
- Baseboards and all parts of your windows
2. Inside Drawers, Cabinets and Closets
These areas are easy to forget about, meaning they’re some of the dirtiest. No matter the room, the chance for gross drawer interiors is there. From makeup transfer or a gob of toothpaste in the bathroom to remnants of old spices and cooking splatters in the kitchen, you want to clean these spaces before putting your stuff inside.
Key spots to clean:
- All vanity drawers
- The shelves in your medicine cabinet
- Any bathroom cabinet or linen closet
- All kitchen cabinets and drawers
- The pantry shelves
Typically, a wet paper towel with an all-purpose cleaner or disinfecting cleaner works well. For more stubborn messes, use a scrubbing sponge and cleaner to remove.
3. Windows and Mirrors
Nothing makes a space feel brighter than natural light and streak-free glass. Stock up on glass and window cleaners and lint-free cloths.
Key spots to clean:
- Interior and exterior windows
- Sliding glass doors
- Mirrors in bathrooms and hallways
- Glass inserts on doors or cabinets
4. Floors
Your floors take the biggest hit during the moving box shuffle. Once your furniture is in place, clean them thoroughly. It’s never a bad idea to consider refinishing wood floors if they need it before you move in. Your house will never be this empty again. A good finish offers better protection from kids and pets, plus adds a great glow to dull flooring.
- Hard floors: Sweep, then mop with the right floor cleaner. Use a sturdy mop and don’t oversaturate the surfaces with water.
- Carpets: Vacuum corners and edges. Rent a steam cleaner when needed.
5. Kitchen: Deep Clean Before Stocking
Your kitchen is the heart of your new home and one of the places most likely to give you the ick if it wasn’t properly maintained. Clean and sanitize it before filling cabinets and the fridge.
Appliance checklist:
- Dishwasher: Run a cycle with a good dishwasher cleaner and if it really needs a deep clean follow this step-by-step guide.
- Fridge: Wipe drawers and shelves with an all-purpose cleaner. If your fridge has a water dispenser, change the filter and clean the plastic tube where it dispenses water. Most people never clean it, and it can develop mold over time.
- Oven/Stovetop: Clean grates and interior thoroughly.
- Microwave: Steam clean with lemon and water. Want a deep cleaning guide? Learn the best way to clean a microwave step-by-step.
Other key tasks:
- Wipe the outside of cabinets, counters and cabinet handles.
- Sanitize the sink with sponges and scouring pads.
6. Bathrooms
Like the kitchen, the potential for gross messes is high. A disinfected and clean bathroom is a must before (or at least shortly after) you move-in.
Checklist:
- Scrub grout and shower walls.
- Clean sinks and faucets with an all-purpose cleaner.
- Sanitize toilets top-to-bottom.
- Mop with a floor cleaner.
- Clean mirrors with glass and window cleaner.
7. Walls and Baseboards
Walls collect fingerprints, scuffs and dust, so while they’re often overlooked, cleaning them is essential. Use a damp sponge with soap or an all-purpose cleaner to spot clean. Don’t skip the baseboards, they’re magnets for dust during a move. For detailed tips, check out Lowe’s guide on how to clean baseboards like a pro.
8. Vents, Filters and Air Quality
Fresh air is key to breathing easier in a new place, plus clean vents help keep your home smelling fresh and your HVAC from circulating dust and other allergens. Putting new filters in lets you set a new schedule, to make it easy, order them on a subscription basis. That way when they arrive you know it’s time to change them.
- Wash vent covers in soapy water.
- Replace HVAC filters.
- Dust return grates.
9. Don’t Forget the Tiny Details
- Sanitize doorknobs, switches and railings.
- Wipe down washer/dryer interior and exterior surfaces. Use a washing machine cleaning tab and cycle.
- These finishing touches help make your new home truly yours.
Product Spotlight: Move-In Cleaning Essentials
Before you unpack, stock up on these must-have supplies:
A Clean New Home, A Happy Home
Moving day is busy, but starting with a fresh, deep clean pays off. This new home cleaning checklist helps you tackle forgotten tasks and sets up a healthier, happier home. Once your cleaning is complete, it’s time to think long-term, use Lowe’s new home maintenance checklist to keep everything in top shape year-round. With the right tools, from floor cleaners to air fresheners, you’ll feel settled faster and enjoy every corner of your new space.