The Ultimate Move-In Cleaning Checklist

Moving into a new home can be exciting, but cleaning before you start putting boxes away can be daunting. Did you know that a quality move-in cleaning checklist can not only minimize allergies but also prevent germs from establishing themselves in your new home?

At Lilly’s Cleaning Service, we are professionals dedicated to making your move-in stress-free, ensuring your home is spotless. This extensive move-in cleaning checklist will help you cover every corner—from gathering the perfect supplies to a deep clean of the deepest, most hidden spots — with our move-in cleaning checklist so that you can get off to a great start in your new Odessa or Midland home. Download our printable move-in cleaning checklist PDF.

Gather Your Essential Move-In Cleaning Supplies

Before you begin, ensure you have all your essential Move-In Cleaning Supplies ready. This will help you work efficiently without interruptions.

Before you begin the move-in cleaning process, ensure you have all your essential move-in cleaning supplies. It helps you work smoothly without being distracted. 

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Microfiber cloths and sponges to clean gently and effectively  
• A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens
• Mop and broom for floors
• All-purpose cleaner and disinfectant spray for sanitization.
• Baking soda and vinegar to naturally fight stains and odors

By selecting eco-friendly cleaning products, you are not only protecting your family and all your household surfaces but also protecting the environment. With this move-in cleaning supplies checklist, you’ll have everything you need to do a thorough clean.

Essential Steps for a Thorough Move-In Cleaning

You don’t have to feel overwhelmed about getting your new home sparkling clean. With these simple steps, you’ll clean smart, stay organized, and create a fresh, healthy space to settle into comfortably.

Step 1: Initial Walkthrough and Planning

• Begin with a thorough walkthrough of your new home before you start cleaning.
• Inspect for any damage, dirt accumulation, or necessary repairs. 
• Make notes on what requires special attention, such as mold, leaks, or grime behind appliances. This allows you to organize cleaning tasks easily, so you’re never caught off guard.
• Plan your cleaning in phases, focusing on high-traffic areas and rooms you’ll use first.
• Focus on the kitchen and bathrooms, then proceed to the bedrooms and living areas. 
• Open up windows and doors to help air out the room as you clean. 
• This is a busy time, and having a concrete plan is crucial for managing your stress levels and completing everything.

Step 2: Room-by-Room Move-In Cleaning Guide

Area / Task	Key Cleaning Actions	Pro Tips & Notes
Kitchen Cleaning	Clean fridge, oven, stove, cabinets, dishwasher; wipe counters; mop floors	Use baking soda for grime, move appliances, and line shelves
Bathroom Cleaning	Disinfect toilets, tubs, sinks, mirrors, cabinets; scrub shower head/drains; mop floors	Use vinegar for shower heads; check mold and leaks
Bedroom Cleaning	Dust surfaces, wardrobes, walls, baseboards; vacuum carpets; clean windows	Start with ceiling fans; use glass cleaner for windows
Living Room Cleaning	Dust furniture, mirrors, windows, walls; clean closets; vacuum, mop floors	Move furniture if possible; sanitize light switches
Floors & Carpets	Vacuum carpets/mats; mop floors by type; steam clean carpets	Use a squeegee for streak-free windows; sanitize handles
Windows & Doors	Vacuum sills/tracks; clean windows; wipe doors and knobs	Use squeegee for streak-free windows; sanitize handles
Light Fixtures & Outlets	Dust fixtures and lampshades; wipe outlets and switch plates	Avoid moisture near outlets; wash shades separately
Wardrobes & Cabinets	Wipe inside/out; sanitize if needed; dust shelves	Air out musty smells; line shelves for easy cleaning
Laundry Appliances	Clean lint traps; wipe washer/dryer interiors	Regular maintenance prevents odors and boosts efficiency
Ceiling Fans & Walls	Dust fan blades; clean walls with mild soap	Fans collect dust; spot clean walls as needed
Vents & Air Filters	Clean vents; replace filters if necessary	Reduces allergens; improves air quality
Outdoor Spaces	Sweep patios/porches; clean exterior windows and fixtures; check gutters	Regular cleaning prevents pests and water damage

Step 3: Move-in Deep Cleaning Checklist and Overlooked Areas

Deep cleaning is cleaning beyond surfaces. It includes:

• Wiping down under and behind the appliances
• Using a damp cloth to clean the air vents (which is suitable for removing allergens)
• Detergent for baseboards and moldings
• Dusting ceiling fans and light fixtures
• Disinfecting high-touch surfaces, including doorknobs, switches, and thermostats

For new home construction, consider post-construction cleaning to remove dust and other chemicals left behind by builders. If you don’t clean these areas, you may develop allergies and asthma, so a thorough clean ensures your home is safe and comfortable.

Move-In Cleaning Tips From Lilly’s Cleaning Service Experts

• Clean from top to bottom: Ceiling fans and light fixtures should be cleaned before tackling the floors, so cleaned areas do not get re-soiled.
• One task at a time: Do all the windows in all the rooms, followed by the dusting, then the mopping, to maintain clarity and order
• Use natural cleaners: Baking soda and vinegar will do wonders for stains and odors without any  toxic elements.
• Wear protective gear: If you are deep cleaning, wear a mask and gloves. You can avoid burnout (and stay on track) if you plan your new home’s cleaning schedule. Want help treating pesky spots? That’s why our specialists are prepared with the right custom solutions for your Texas home.

Apartment Move-In Cleaning Checklist

When you move into an apartment, you’ll need to give it a thorough clean. Our apartment move-in cleaning checklist will help you ensure you don’t overlook anything significant , allowing you priority access to areas that thousands of others have used. Apartments usually have smaller kitchens, bathrooms, bathrooms, and shared ventilation systems, so extra time cleaning bathrooms, kitchen appliances, and air vents is a must. Our targeted cleaning guide helps you address these high-use, high-touch areas to achieve a fresh, allergen-free space that’s perfect for apartment living.

Move-In Cleaning Checklist PDF

Moving out? Don’t forget about the other half of the process. A move-in cleaning checklist PDF ensures that you receive your deposit in full at your old place. That includes jobs such as carpet cleaning, wall washing, and appliance cleaning.

By combining both the move-in and move-out checklists, you’re sure to have a seamless transition without any surprises. Download our printable cleaning checklist for move-in cleaning tips to help you during the moving process.

Why Hire Lilly’s Cleaning Service for Your Move-In Cleaning in Odessa & Midland, TX?

Choosing Lilly’s Cleaning Service for your Move-In Cleaning Odessa, TX & Move-In Cleaning Midland, TX, means trusting a local team with years of experience and professional tools. We use eco-friendly products and pay attention to details that matter most, like cabinet interior cleaning, air vent cleaning, and light fixture dusting. Our service saves you hours and ensures a spotless, healthy home.

Here’s what one happy customer said:

“Absolutely love Lilly’s Cleaning Service! They are highly professional and skilled, well-equipped, communicative, and thorough. They are kind and friendly every time they visit and leave my home, sparkling clean and smelling wonderful. Added perk: they use plant-based cleaning products!! Highly recommend them for their cleaning services!” — Kiandra Florence.

Ready for a fresh start? Call Lilly’s Cleaning Service today and book your move-in cleaning service!

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