Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a long list of tasks, including the often-overlooked job of move cleaning. Whether you’re moving into a new place or leaving an old one, ensuring that both spaces are clean is crucial for a smooth transition. In this blog post, we’ll share practical tips on how to handle cleaning after a move, including when to call in cleaning professionals. With these strategies, you’ll be able to tackle move cleaning efficiently and enjoy your new home sooner.
1. Start with a Plan
Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s essential to have a plan. A well-thought-out plan will help you stay organized and ensure that no area is overlooked.
Planning Tips:
- Make a Checklist: Create a detailed checklist of all the areas that need to be cleaned. Break it down into rooms and specific tasks to make it more manageable.
- Gather Supplies: Ensure you have all the necessary cleaning supplies, including a vacuum cleaner, mop, microfiber cloths, cleaning solutions, and trash bags.
- Set a Timeline: Allocate specific times for each task to keep yourself on track. If possible, spread the cleaning over a few days to avoid burnout.
Pro Tip: Use a digital planner or app to keep your checklist and timeline easily accessible.
2. Clean Before You Unpack
One of the best times to clean your new home is before you start unpacking. This allows you to reach every nook and cranny without having to move around furniture and boxes.
Pre-Unpacking Cleaning Tips:
- Start with the Kitchen: Clean all appliances, cabinets, countertops, and sinks. Pay special attention to areas behind and under appliances.
- Tackle the Bathrooms: Scrub toilets, sinks, showers, and bathtubs. Clean mirrors, light fixtures, and any tile grout.
- Focus on Floors: Vacuum and mop all floors, paying special attention to corners and edges.
- Wipe Down Surfaces: Clean windows, window sills, baseboards, and walls to remove dust and grime.
Pro Tip: Use natural cleaning products like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice for an eco-friendly and effective clean.
3. Deep Clean Your Old Home
If you’re moving out of a rental property, a thorough deep clean is often required to get your security deposit back. Even if you’re selling your home, a clean space can make a significant difference in the final sale.
Move-Out Cleaning Tips:
- Empty the Space: Remove all personal belongings before you start cleaning to make the process easier.
- Clean from Top to Bottom: Start with high surfaces like ceilings, light fixtures, and shelves, and work your way down to floors.
- Focus on High-Traffic Areas: Pay extra attention to kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways, as these areas tend to accumulate the most dirt and grime.
- Don’t Forget the Details: Clean inside cabinets, drawers, and closets. Wipe down doors, door frames, and switch plates.
Pro Tip: Take photos of the cleaned space as proof of its condition when you move out.
4. Create a Recurring Cleaning Schedule
Once you’ve settled into your new home, maintaining a clean environment is essential. Establishing a recurring cleaning schedule helps you stay on top of chores and prevents dirt and clutter from building up.
Recurring Cleaning Schedule:
- Daily Tasks: Make the bed, wipe down kitchen counters, do the dishes, and tidy up common areas.
- Weekly Tasks: Vacuum and mop floors, clean bathrooms, dust surfaces, and change bed linens.
- Monthly Tasks: Deep clean the refrigerator, wash windows, clean light fixtures, and organize closets.
Pro Tip: Use a planner or digital calendar to schedule your cleaning tasks and set reminders to keep you on track.
5. Invest in Quality Cleaning Tools
Having the right tools can make a significant difference in the efficiency and effectiveness of your cleaning routine. Invest in high-quality cleaning tools that will last and perform well.
Essential Cleaning Tools:
- Vacuum Cleaner: Choose a vacuum with strong suction and attachments for different surfaces.
- Mop and Bucket: A good mop and bucket are essential for keeping floors clean.
- Microfiber Cloths: These are great for dusting and wiping down surfaces without leaving streaks.
- Scrub Brushes: Have a variety of scrub brushes for different cleaning tasks, such as grout and tile.
- Cleaning Caddy: Use a caddy to keep all your cleaning supplies organized and easily accessible.
Pro Tip: Regularly clean and maintain your cleaning tools to ensure they remain effective.
6. Declutter Regularly
Clutter can make even the cleanest home feel chaotic and disorganized. Regular decluttering helps you maintain a tidy and stress-free living environment.
Decluttering Tips:
- Start Small: Begin with one room or area at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Use the “One In, One Out” Rule: For every new item you bring into your home, remove one item to prevent clutter from accumulating.
- Donate or Discard: Regularly go through your belongings and donate or discard items you no longer need or use.
- Organize Storage: Use storage solutions like bins, baskets, and shelves to keep items organized and out of sight.
Pro Tip: Schedule regular decluttering sessions as part of your recurring cleaning routine.
7. Focus on High-Traffic Areas
High-traffic areas like entryways, kitchens, and living rooms tend to accumulate dirt and clutter more quickly. Give these areas extra attention to keep your home looking its best.
High-Traffic Area Tips:
- Entryway: Keep a mat at the entrance to trap dirt and prevent it from being tracked into your home. Regularly sweep and mop the entryway.
- Kitchen: Wipe down countertops and appliances daily. Clean spills and messes immediately to prevent stains and buildup.
- Living Room: Tidy up daily by fluffing pillows, folding blankets, and putting away items that don’t belong.
Pro Tip: Use rugs and runners in high-traffic areas to protect floors and make cleaning easier.
8. Use Natural Cleaning Products
Natural cleaning products are not only better for the environment but also safer for your family and pets. Many natural ingredients are just as effective as commercial cleaners.
Natural Cleaning Recipes:
- All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Add a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent.
- Glass Cleaner: Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a spray bottle. Shake well before use.
- Scrubbing Paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste. Use it to scrub sinks, tubs, and other surfaces.
Pro Tip: Store natural cleaning products in labeled spray bottles for easy access.
9. Hire Cleaning Professionals When Needed
Sometimes, life gets busy, and it’s challenging to keep up with cleaning tasks. When this happens, don’t hesitate to call in cleaning professionals. Professional cleaners have the expertise and equipment to tackle even the toughest cleaning jobs, leaving your home spotless and fresh.
When to Hire Cleaning Professionals:
- Deep Cleaning: For a thorough, top-to-bottom clean of your home.
- Special Occasions: Before or after hosting a party or event.
- Move-In/Move-Out: To ensure your new or old home is clean and ready.
- Busy Schedules: When you don’t have the time or energy to clean.
Pro Tip: Schedule regular professional cleanings as part of your recurring cleaning routine to maintain a consistently clean home.
10. Establish Good Habits
Good cleaning habits can make a significant difference in maintaining a clean and organized home. By incorporating small daily habits, you can prevent messes from piling up and make cleaning more manageable.
Good Cleaning Habits:
- Clean as You Go: Tidy up as you go about your day to prevent messes from accumulating.
- Wipe Down Surfaces: Regularly wipe down surfaces like countertops, sinks, and tables to keep them clean and free from spills.
- Put Things Away: Develop the habit of putting items back in their designated places after use.
- Do a Nightly Tidy-Up: Spend a few minutes each night tidying up common areas to start the next day with a clean slate.
Pro Tip: Involve the whole family in maintaining good cleaning habits to share the responsibility and keep your home looking its best.
11. Celebrate Your Clean Home
After putting in the effort to clean and organize your home, take a moment to celebrate and enjoy the results. A clean home is a source of pride and comfort, so make sure to appreciate your hard work.
Celebration Ideas:
- Host a Gathering: Invite friends or family over to enjoy your clean and welcoming home.
- Relax and Unwind: Take a relaxing bath, read a book, or watch a movie in your tidy space.
- Treat Yourself: Reward yourself with a favorite snack or activity as a way to celebrate your clean home.
Pro Tip: Use the positive feelings from celebrating your clean home as motivation to maintain your cleaning routine.
Conclusion
Handling cleaning after a move doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By starting with a plan, cleaning before you unpack, and deep cleaning your old home, you can ensure a smooth transition. Creating a recurring cleaning schedule, investing in quality tools, and establishing good habits will help you maintain a clean and organized living space. Don’t forget to declutter regularly, focus on high-traffic areas, and use natural cleaning products for a healthier home. And when life gets busy, remember that cleaning professionals are always available to help. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a spotless and welcoming home.Â
About The Author
Rochester Residential Cleaning is a professional cleaning service located in Rochester Hills, MI. They offer a variety of cleaning services to meet most residential cleaning needs, including recurring maid services, deep house cleaning services, and move-in/out cleaning services. If you live in the Rochester area, we invite you to request a free home cleaning quote.
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