The Move-In Cleaning Checklist: What to Tackle Before Unpacking

Moving into a new home brings excitement, fresh energy, and the promise of a clean slate. But while the previous residents may have done a basic sweep or even hired out cleaning services, there’s no guarantee that every surface has been scrubbed to your standards—or that hidden areas haven’t been overlooked.

Before you begin unpacking boxes and arranging furniture, a move-in cleaning session ensures that your new space is fresh, sanitized, and truly ready for living. This is your chance to deep clean every corner without having to navigate around rugs, electronics, or furniture.

Whether you’re handling the job yourself or working with a professional team like Apex Home Cleaning, here’s a detailed checklist to guide your move in the cleaning process for a healthier and more comfortable transition.

1. Start with the Kitchen

The kitchen is where you’ll store and prepare food, so it’s essential to begin your move-in cleaning here. Pay extra attention to surfaces, appliances, and storage areas that may have accumulated grime over time.

Checklist:

• Wipe down and disinfect countertops, backsplash, and cabinet interiors
  
• Clean inside and behind the refrigerator and freezer
  
• Sanitize the sink, faucet, and garbage disposal
  
• Degrease the stovetop, oven, and exhaust hood
  
• Run the dishwasher empty with a cleaning solution or vinegar cycle
  
• Mop the floor and baseboards thoroughly
  

Even if the space looks clean, don’t skip sanitizing. Bacteria, food particles, and residue often hide in small crevices.

2. Disinfect the Bathrooms

Bathrooms demand both visual cleanliness and microbial sanitation. Before using the shower or placing items on shelves, do a top-to-bottom deep clean.

Checklist:

• Scrub and disinfect the toilet, including under the rim and base
  
• Clean the bathtub, shower tiles, and fixtures with mold- and mildew-fighting products
  
• Wipe down mirrors and glass with streak-free cleaner
  
• Disinfect countertops, sinks, and faucet handles
  
• Wash or replace shower liners and sanitize curtain rods
  
• Mop floors with a strong antibacterial solution
  

A clean bathroom not only protects your health but also gives peace of mind in a shared or previously used space.

3. Clean All Floors—Everywhere

Floors take a beating during moves and are often last on the priority list during rushed move outs. Cleaning them properly is key before any furniture lands on them.

Checklist:

• Vacuum all carpeted areas, then steam clean if possible
  
• Sweep and mop hardwood, laminate, or tile floors
  
• Disinfect high-touch corners where pet hair or debris may collect
  
• Clean floor vents and grates of dust or buildup
  

This step is especially important if you’re sensitive to allergens, pet dander, or residual odors from previous occupants.

4. Wipe Down Walls, Doors, and Baseboards

Walls and trim often go unnoticed, but they collect fingerprints, dust, and smudges—especially near light switches and door frames.

Checklist:

• Wipe baseboards with a damp cloth and mild cleaner
  
• Clean switch plates, doorknobs, and handles
  
• Dust and clean crown molding or ceiling corners if accessible
  
• Remove any leftover nails, adhesive, or wall marks carefully
  

Even if you’re planning to repaint, cleaning first ensures better paint adhesion and a smoother finish.

5. Sanitize Windows, Blinds, and Fixtures

Windows let in natural light and impact the overall feel of your home. Clean them now to enhance clarity and remove accumulated dust or grime.

Checklist:

• Wash interior window panes with glass cleaner
  
• Dust and wipe down blinds or replace them if needed
  
• Clean curtain rods, window sills, and tracks
  
• Dust ceiling fans, light fixtures, and air vents
  

Open windows during this phase to let in fresh air and improve indoor air quality as cleaning progresses.

6. Inspect and Clean Closets and Cabinets

Storage areas are rarely cleaned thoroughly, especially in rentals. Before you start putting things away, make sure all storage zones are sanitized and debris-free.

Checklist:

• Vacuum or wipe down closet floors and shelves
  
• Disinfect doorknobs and drawer handles
  
• Line drawers and shelves with contact paper, if preferred
  
• Check for any pests or signs of mold
  

Move in cleaning should address these enclosed areas early so you can unpack and organize with confidence.

7. Replace Filters and Test Alarms

Clean air is vital for a healthy home, especially after a move. Dirty filters can affect HVAC performance and air quality, while outdated alarms pose a safety risk.

Checklist:

• Replace or clean HVAC and air purifier filters
  
• Check and test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms
  
• Clean intake and exhaust vents to remove dust buildup
  

If the home has a fireplace or wood stove, ensure the flue and chimney have been professionally inspected and cleaned.

8. Consider a Full Deep Cleaning Before Move-In

If you’re short on time or simply want to start fresh, a professional deep cleaning can handle the heavy lifting. Companies offering house cleaning services in Toronto often provide specialized move in cleaning packages designed to cover every detail.

These services may include:

• Disinfecting overlooked areas like door frames and window tracks
  
• High-dusting in vaulted ceilings or attic spaces
  
• Polishing fixtures and baseboards for a finished look
  

Reputable providers like Apex Home Cleaning understand the unique needs of move-in scenarios and can tailor their approach to your schedule and space.

9. Eco-Friendly Bonus: Sustainable Cleaning Choices

For those concerned about indoor air quality and environmental impact, consider using natural or green-certified products. Vinegar, baking soda, and castile soap can handle many cleaning tasks without harsh chemicals.

Also:

• Avoid using overly fragrant cleaners that may trigger allergies
  
• Choose reusable microfiber cloths instead of disposable wipes
  
• Use low-VOC cleaners for sensitive surfaces and small rooms
  

This approach protects not only your family but also your new home’s long-term materials.

Conclusion

Moving into a new home is a fresh beginning—and nothing complements that like a clean, sanitized space ready to support your daily life. Tackling your move in cleaning before unpacking ensures you’re not layering new belongings on top of lingering dust, debris, or bacteria.

From scrubbing kitchen appliances to disinfecting light switches, every task plays a role in building a healthier home environment. Whether you manage it yourself or work with experienced cleaning services, prioritizing cleanliness now makes the transition smoother—and far more satisfying.