Moving into a new house is an exciting journey, but it often comes with the challenge of making your new space feel like home. This challenge usually starts with a crucial step: cleaning. Whether you’re renting or have just bought a new property, the cleanliness of your new home plays a significant role in how comfortable and welcoming it feels.
What to Clean When Moving into a New House? Before moving into a new house, prioritize cleaning the kitchen, bathrooms, floors, and windows. Additionally, dust all surfaces, clean the HVAC system filters, and sanitize high-touch areas like doorknobs and light switches for a fresh start in your new home
The last thing you want is to settle into a house that still bears the marks and grime of previous occupants. This blog will guide you through the essential cleaning tasks to undertake before you start unpacking your boxes. By following this guide, you’ll be able to transform your new house into a fresh and inviting home, setting the stage for many happy memories to come.
Kitchen Cleaning Essentials When Moving into a New House
Deep Cleaning Appliances (Refrigerator, Oven, Dishwasher)
The heart of kitchen hygiene lies in maintaining appliances. Refrigerators should be emptied and shelves wiped down monthly to prevent bacterial growth and odour.
Ovens require a bi-annual deep clean with a focus on removing grease and burnt food residues.
Dishwashers, often overlooked, need regular cleaning of filters and seals to ensure they remain effective and hygienic.
Sanitizing Countertops and Cabinets
Countertops and cabinets are the most exposed surfaces in a kitchen. Daily wiping with a disinfectant keeps countertops free from food particles and bacteria, ensuring a safe food preparation area.
Cabinets, especially handles and doors, should be cleaned weekly with a gentle cleaner to remove dust and prevent the buildup of kitchen grime.
Cleaning Sinks and Faucets
Sinks and faucets are breeding grounds for germs due to constant water and food exposure. Daily scrubbing of the sink with a non-abrasive cleaner prevents stain and odor accumulation. Faucets should be wiped and polished regularly to prevent water spots and mineral buildup, ensuring they function properly and maintain their appearance.
Bathroom Sanitization When Moving into a New House
Disinfecting Toilets, Showers, and Bathtubs
Ensuring the cleanliness of toilets, showers, and bathtubs is paramount in maintaining a hygienic bathroom environment. Regular disinfection kills harmful bacteria and viruses, preventing the spread of illness.
Use appropriate cleaners that are specifically formulated to combat bathroom germs and grime. Focus on frequently touched areas, and allow the disinfectant to sit for a few minutes for maximum efficacy.
Cleaning Mirrors and Surfaces
Mirrors and surfaces in bathrooms often accumulate water spots, fingerprints, and toothpaste splatters, detracting from the room’s overall cleanliness.
A streak-free shine can be achieved by using a high-quality glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth. For surfaces, use a disinfectant spray to wipe down countertops, handles, and faucets, ensuring they are not only clean but also hygienic.
Addressing Mould and Mildew
Mould and mildew pose significant health risks and can be a recurrent problem in bathrooms due to moisture and humidity. Regular cleaning with mould and mildew removers is essential.
Ensure proper ventilation to reduce humidity levels and keep surfaces dry. In cases of severe infestation, consider seeking professional help to remove and prevent future growth.
Clean Living Spaces and Bedrooms When Moving into a New House
Dusting and Cleaning Windows and Ledges
Windows are the eyes to the world outside, and keeping them clean is vital for both visibility and aesthetics. Dusting and cleaning windows and ledges should be done regularly to prevent buildup of grime and dust.
This not only improves the view but also allows more natural light to enter, creating a brighter and more welcoming space. Clean ledges also prevent the accumulation of dirt and potential allergens.
Vacuuming or Shampooing Carpets
Carpets add warmth and comfort to any living space, but they can also harbour dust, allergens, and stains. Regular vacuuming is crucial to maintain the integrity and appearance of your carpets.
For a deeper clean, shampooing them periodically removes deeper-seated dirt and stains, revitalising the carpet’s texture and appearance. This not only enhances the room’s aesthetic but also ensures a healthier living environment.
Wiping Down Walls and Baseboards
Walls and baseboards are often overlooked in regular cleaning routines, yet they gather dust and scuffs over time. Wiping them down regularly maintains the pristine look of your living spaces and bedrooms.
This practice also prevents the buildup of dust and grime, which can be particularly important in homes with pets or small children. Clean walls and baseboards contribute significantly to the overall cleanliness and aesthetic of a room.
Final Steps and Considerations to Clean When Moving into a New House
Ensuring All Light Fixtures are Clean and Functional
The illumination of your space is not just about aesthetics but also about functionality and safety.
Regularly inspect all light fixtures to ensure they are clean, which enhances light efficiency, and check for any malfunctions.
Replace any burnt-out bulbs and repair faulty wiring. This not only brightens your space but also prevents potential electrical hazards.
Safety Check: Smoke Detectors, Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Safety should be your top priority. Conduct thorough checks of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. These devices are essential for early warning in case of fire or gas leaks.
Ensure they are in proper working order, replace batteries regularly, and test them monthly. This proactive approach can be lifesaving, providing peace of mind that your environment is secure.
Creating a Maintenance Plan for the Future
A well-structured maintenance plan is vital for the longevity and efficiency of your space. Plan regular check-ups for electrical systems, plumbing, and structural integrity. This plan should include seasonal maintenance tasks, professional inspections, and a budget for unexpected repairs.
By being prepared and organised, you can prevent minor issues from turning into major problems, ensuring your space remains safe and functional for years to come.
Conclusion
A clean home is the foundation of comfort and health, especially when moving to a new place. Prioritising areas like the kitchen, bathrooms, and floors ensures that you start your new chapter on a fresh note.
As you settle into your new home, remember that this initial deep clean sets the tone for your future living space. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a healthy environment for you and your family. Cleaning might seem like a daunting task now, but it’s an investment in your comfort and well-being. So, take a deep breath, grab your cleaning supplies, and start this new chapter with a sparkling, fresh home. After all, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of relaxation and pride that comes from living in a clean and well-maintained house.
Frequently Asked Question(What to Clean When Moving into a New House)
What should you clean first in a new house?
Before moving into a new house, prioritize cleaning areas that are harder to reach once furniture is in place, such as inside cabinets, appliances, and closets, along with floors and bathrooms, to ensure a hygienic start to your new living space.
How clean should your house be when moving?
When moving, your house should be reasonably clean, addressing all visible dirt and clutter. It’s courteous to leave the space in a condition you’d appreciate if moving in, focusing on sweeping floors, wiping surfaces, and removing personal belongings and trash.
How do you clean a room when you first move in?
To clean a room when first moving in, start by dusting surfaces and fixtures, then vacuum or sweep the floors. Clean the windows and any appliances. Disinfect high-touch areas like doorknobs and light switches. Finally, organize and unpack your belongings efficiently.
How do you clean a newly built house?
To clean a newly built house, start by removing construction debris and dust. Vacuum and mop all floors, wipe down surfaces, clean windows, and sanitize bathrooms and kitchen areas. Focus on areas where construction materials were used or stored to ensure a thorough cleanup.
