Ready to Move? Don't Forget to Clean! Follow This Checklist

Posted on 15/06/2024

Moving to a new home can be an exciting and stressful experience. With the chaos of packing, organizing, and scheduling, cleaning may be the last thing on your mind. However, neglecting to properly clean your old home before moving out can cause unwanted headaches and expenses down the road. To make your move as smooth as possible, it's important to follow a thorough cleaning checklist. Here are some essential tips to help ensure that you leave your old home in pristine condition.

The Checklist

Before you start cleaning, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand. This includes cleaning products, sponges, rags, and garbage bags. It's also helpful to have a copy of your lease or rental agreement on hand to refer to any specific cleaning requirements set by your landlord. With everything in order, let's dive into the checklist.

1. Start with the Kitchen
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home and one of the most used spaces. Begin by clearing out all food from cabinets and pantries, disposing of any expired items. Wipe down all shelves and cabinets with a gentle cleaner and warm water. For tougher stains, use a mix of baking soda and water. Don't forget to also clean the inside of appliances such as the refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher.

2. Deep Clean Bathrooms
Bathrooms can accumulate a lot of grime over time. Start by scrubbing down surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner or a mixture of white vinegar and water. Pay extra attention to the toilet bowl and surrounding areas. Scrub away any soap scum from tubs and showers with a heavy-duty cleaner or baking soda paste.

3. Dust Every Surface
Dust tends to accumulate in every nook and cranny of a home, so it's important to tackle this task thoroughly before moving out. Use a microfiber cloth or a feather duster to dust all surfaces, including light fixtures, ceiling fans, shelves, and windowsills. Don't forget to also wipe down baseboards and door frames.

4. Clean Carpets and Floors
Carpets should be vacuumed thoroughly and any stains spot treated before moving out. For hardwood or tile floors, sweep and mop using a gentle cleaner. Make sure to also clean any hard-to-reach areas such as underneath furniture and behind appliances.

5. Pay Attention to Walls
Walls can accumulate scuff marks and stains over time, especially in high-traffic areas. Use a magic eraser or a mixture of water and baking soda to gently scrub away marks. For extra stubborn stains, touch up with a fresh coat of paint if necessary.

6. Don't Forget the Outdoors
If you have a yard or outdoor space, make sure to tidy it up before leaving. Mow the lawn, trim hedges, remove any weeds, and dispose of any debris lying around. Sweep porches and decks and hose down any outdoor furniture.

Pros and Cons

Now that you've got your cleaning checklist under control, let's take a look at the pros and cons of taking the time to clean before moving out.

Pros:

- Avoid losing security deposit: If you're renting, leaving your old home in a dirty state may result in losing your security deposit.
- Ensure smooth move-in: Cleaning beforehand allows for easy navigation of movers and helps prevent damage to belongings due to dirt or grime.
- Leave good impression: If you're selling your home, having it cleaned can leave a lasting positive impression on potential buyers.

Cons:

- Time consuming: Cleaning an entire home can take a lot of time, especially if it hasn't been properly maintained.
- Add extra stress: With the added pressure of moving, cleaning can add extra stress on top of an already overwhelming experience.
- Expensive: If you choose to hire professional cleaners, it can be an additional expense on top of moving costs.

Tips for an Easier Clean

To make the cleaning process more manageable, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

- Start early: Don't wait until the last minute to start cleaning. Give yourself enough time and tackle one room at a time.
- Declutter first: Before cleaning, declutter and get rid of any items you no longer need or want. This will make the cleaning process more efficient.
- Ask for help: Don't be afraid to ask friends or family for assistance. Cleaning is always easier with an extra set of hands.
- Hire professionals: If time and budget allow, consider hiring professional cleaners to handle the job for you.

Takeaways

Taking the time to properly clean your old home before moving out can save you from unnecessary headaches and expenses. Make sure to have all necessary supplies on hand and follow a thorough checklist to ensure every corner of your home is cleaned. With a little effort, you can leave your old home in pristine condition.

Conclusion

Moving is a big undertaking, but by following this cleaning checklist, you can make the process a little smoother. Remember to pay special attention to high-use areas like the kitchen and bathrooms, as well as outdoor spaces. Don't forget to also consider the pros and cons of cleaning before moving out and use these tips for an easier clean. By leaving your old home in top shape, you can start fresh in your new space without any unnecessary stress or expenses.