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Moving Tips

Move-In Cleaning Checklist: What to Clean Before Unpacking

Fabiola PerezMarch 1, 2025 5 min read

You've closed on your new home, the keys are in your hand, and you're ready to start this exciting new chapter. But before the moving trucks arrive, there's one crucial step many homeowners skip: a thorough move-in cleaning.

Why Clean Before Moving In?

Even if the previous owners cleaned before leaving, there are areas that are almost always missed. Construction dust from last-minute repairs, dust inside cabinets that have been closed for weeks during the selling process, and general buildup in hard-to-reach areas all need attention. Once your furniture is in place, many of these areas become inaccessible.

The Complete Move-In Checklist

Start with the kitchen: clean inside every cabinet and drawer, sanitize countertops, clean inside the oven, microwave, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Check under the sink for any residue or debris.

In bathrooms, scrub the tub, shower, and toilet thoroughly. Clean inside the medicine cabinet and all bathroom drawers. Check the exhaust fan for dust buildup and clean all tile grout.

Throughout the home, wipe down all baseboards, clean window sills and tracks, dust all ceiling fans and light fixtures, clean inside all closets, and vacuum or mop every floor — including inside closets and pantries.

Professional vs. DIY

While you can certainly tackle a move-in cleaning yourself, professional cleaners have the tools and experience to complete the job in a fraction of the time. Our move-in cleaning service typically takes 4-6 hours for a standard home. We handle everything so you can focus on the exciting parts of moving day.

Ready for a Spotless Home?

Get a free, no-obligation quote from Sacramento's most trusted cleaning team.

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