A Cleaning Checklist for Moving into a New Home

Moving into a new place is exciting, but before unpacking and settling in, the first priority should be cleaning your home. Even if the previous occupants tidied up, dust, grime, and hidden messes are often left behind. A fresh start begins with a deep clean that gets rid of unwanted dirt and allergens in your home.

At All My Sons Moving & Storage, we know that after a long move, scrubbing every surface isn’t what most people look forward to. But cleaning before you move in is the best way to make the space feel truly yours. A detailed cleaning checklist keeps things organized so no spots are overlooked. From disinfecting high-touch areas to deep-cleaning bathrooms and kitchen appliances, tackling each room step by step makes the process more manageable.

With the right supplies and a plan, the job becomes easier. Dusting, wiping down surfaces, and giving floors a proper deep clean will leave the entire space feeling fresh and clean. Let’s go over the best approach to new home cleaning, so you can get the job done right and start enjoying your space sooner.

What Supplies Would You Need?

Before diving into cleaning your home, having the right cleaning supplies on hand makes the process smoother and more efficient. The last thing you want is to start wiping down surfaces only to realize you’re missing something essential. For an effective move-in cleaning, gather these supplies before you start:

• Rubber gloves to protect your hands

• Broom & dustpan for sweeping debris

• Scrubbers & sponges for tough stains

• Cleaners like all-purpose cleaner, disinfectant, and glass cleaner

• Vacuum to remove dust and dirt from carpets and floors

• Mop and bucket for deep-cleaning hard surfaces

• Step ladder for reaching high corners and shelves

• Clean rag and clean cloth for wiping down delicate surfaces

• White vinegar for removing hard water stains and buildup

• Toothbrush for scrubbing small, hard-to-reach spots

Having everything you need before starting makes it easier to clean the rest of your new space without unnecessary interruptions. With the right tools, it’s much easier to clean a house properly and prepare for unpacking.

Where Do I Start? A Room-by-Room Cleaning Guide for Your New Home

When cleaning your home, it’s beneficial to create a house cleaning checklist to track each step, ensuring nothing is overlooked in this high-priority space.

Start with the Bathroom

The bathroom should be the first space tackled when cleaning your home. It’s one of the most frequently used rooms and can harbor lingering germs, grime, and bacteria from previous occupants. A deep clean makes the space feel truly fresh before you start using it.

• Scrub the shower, toilet, and sink with a disinfecting cleaner to remove buildup and eliminate bacteria.

• Sanitize high-touch areas like faucet handles, toilet flush levers, and light switches.

• Clean or replace old fixtures, such as showerheads or toilet seats, for a completely fresh setup.

• Wipe down light fixtures to remove dust and buildup.

Clean the Bedrooms Before Settling In

A clean bedroom is essential for a restful night’s sleep after a long move. Dust, allergens, and hidden messes can build up over time, so a thorough cleaning helps make the space feel fresh and inviting.

• Remove cobwebs and dust from ceilings, corners, and window sills using a duster or vacuum attachment.

• Vacuum carpets to remove trapped dirt and dust; if the flooring is hardwood or tile, follow up with a damp mop.

• Clean the inside of cabinets and closets before storing clothing or personal belongings.

• Wipe down baseboards and walls, paying close attention to scuff marks or dust buildup.

Tackle the Kitchen & Appliances

The kitchen requires extra attention due to food residue, grease, and potential lingering odors. A deep cleaning house routine is necessary to prepare this space for safe food prep and daily use.

• Wipe down the refrigerator inside and out, ensuring the fridge is clean before stocking it with food.

• Clean the stovetop and scrub the oven to remove grease, burnt residue, and stuck-on food.

• Clean countertops, drawers, and cabinet handles with an all-purpose cleaner to remove bacteria.

• Use cleaning solutions like mixing baking soda and white vinegar to tackle stubborn stains or remove odors.

• Make sure the rest of the kitchen is grease-free by wiping down shelves, drawers, and backsplash areas.

Don’t Forget Floors & Air Quality

Floors can trap dirt, dust, and allergens, especially after moving. Giving them extra attention before unpacking furniture helps maintain air quality and cleanliness.

• Sweep or vacuum all floors to eliminate dust and debris tracked in during the move.

• Mop hardwood and tile floors for a final clean that removes any lingering dirt.

• Steam clean carpets to refresh and sanitize the fibers, especially if the previous occupants had pets.

• Replace HVAC air filters to improve air quality, reduce allergens, and maintain good air circulation in your home.

• Dust and clean air vents to prevent the spread of dust and dander.

Windows, Fixtures, and Hidden Spots

Even in a clean home, dust and dirt tend to settle in overlooked places. Pay extra attention to windows, fixtures, and small details to complete the cleaning process.

• Clean the windows inside and out to remove streaks, smudges, and built-up dirt.

• Wipe down blinds, curtains, and window sills to eliminate dust and allergens.

• Dust and polish light fixtures and ceiling fans to remove any accumulated buildup.

• Refresh door handles, switches, and high-touch surfaces throughout the home with a disinfecting spray.

Safety & Final Touches

Before calling the cleaning process complete, take care of a few last tasks to ensure the home is move-in ready.

• Check and clean dryer vents to reduce fire hazards.

• Organize supplies for easy access as you unpack.

• Dispose of any trash left behind, and complete a final walkthrough to clean the rest of the home.

Get Moved Fast With Us!

Once the cleaning is done, the last thing you want is to spend an entire day dealing with a drawn-out moving process. That’s where Corpus Christi movers from All My Sons Moving & Storage come in. Our team works quickly and efficiently, so you don’t have to waste time waiting for your belongings to arrive. We get everything unloaded and in place, so you can focus on cleaning your home and settling in.

With years of experience and a commitment to top-quality service, we handle your move with the same care and precision you put into preparing your new space. Whether you're moving across town or into a new neighborhood, we make the process seamless and stress-free. Call us today for a free, no-obligation moving quote, and let’s get you moved in and settled faster! For more expert moving and cleaning tips, read our blog for helpful guides and insights.