The Ultimate Move-In Cleaning Checklist for Your Texas Home

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, but the process can feel overwhelming—especially in Texas, where dust, humidity, and hard water can add unique challenges. Whether you’re settling into a cozy Austin bungalow or a sprawling Dallas ranch, a deep clean before unpacking ensures your space is fresh, safe, and ready for memories. At Lilly’s Cleaning Service, we’ve helped countless Texans transform their new houses into spotless sanctuaries. In this guide, we’ll share our ultimate move-in cleaning checklist, tailored to Texas homes, so you can start this chapter on the right foot.

Why a Move-In Cleaning Matters

A move-in cleaning isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about hygiene and peace of mind. Previous occupants may have left behind allergens, dust, or even pests. In Texas, seasonal allergens like pollen or mold spores can linger in carpets and vents, while hard water stains are common in bathrooms and kitchens. A thorough clean:

Removes germs and allergens
Prevents pest infestations
Extends the lifespan of appliances and surfaces
Let you customize your space from day one

Skip the stress and follow our room-by-room checklist below. For a pristine finish, contact Lilly’s Cleaning Service to handle the heavy lifting!

Pre-Cleaning Preparation

Before diving in, gather your supplies:

All-purpose cleaner (opt for eco-friendly options if you have pets or kids)
Microfiber cloths, sponges, and scrub brushes
Disinfectant spray (essential for high-touch areas)
Glass cleaner
Vacuum, mop, and broom
Toothbrush or grout brush for tight spaces
Rubber gloves

Pro Texas Tip: Use a vinegar-water solution to tackle hard water stains common in Texas bathrooms and kitchens.

Room-by-Room Move-In Cleaning Checklist

1. Kitchen: The Heart of Your Home

The kitchen requires extra attention to ensure food safety and appliance efficiency.

Appliances:

🧼 Refrigerator: Remove shelves and drawers. Clean with warm, soapy water. Check seals for mold.
🔥 Oven and Stovetop: Use a degreaser to remove baked-on residue. Don’t forget the range hood!
☕ Microwave: Heat a bowl of water with lemon slices for 5 minutes to loosen grime.
🍴 Dishwasher: Run a cycle with vinegar to eliminate odors.

Cabinets and Countertops:

Wipe inside and outside of cabinets with a damp cloth.
Disinfect countertops, especially around sinks.

Floors and Walls:

Sweep and mop, paying attention to corners where crumbs hide.
Wipe down baseboards and walls near cooking areas to remove grease.

*Texas-Specific Tip:* Check under sinks for signs of pests—common in humid climates.

2. Bathrooms: Sanitize for Safety

Texas humidity can encourage mold growth, so bathrooms need a meticulous scrub.

Shower and Tub:

Scrub tiles and grout with a baking soda paste.
Soak showerheads in vinegar to dissolve mineral deposits.

Toilet and Sink:

Disinfect bowl, seat, and handle.
Clean sink drains with a mixture of baking soda and hot water.

Mirrors and Fixtures:

Polish mirrors with glass cleaner.
Shine faucets and handles to remove water spots.

Ventilation:

Wipe down exhaust fans to improve airflow and prevent mold.

3. Bedrooms and Living Areas: Create a Relaxing Oasis

Floors and Carpets:

Vacuum carpets thoroughly (consider a steam clean for allergens).
Mop hardwood or tile floors.

Windows and Blinds:

Wash windows inside and out. Texas dust storms can leave a film!
Wipe blinds with a microfiber cloth.

Closets and Storage:

Vacuum closet floors and shelves.
Line shelves with fresh paper or liners.

Lighting and Fans:

Dust the ceiling fan blades to avoid spreading dirt when turned on.
Wipe light fixtures and replace bulbs if needed.

4. Utility Rooms and Garages: Don’t Forget Functional Spaces

Laundry Room:

Clean lint traps and run a washing machine cleaner tablet.
Wipe down detergent dispensers.

Garage:

Sweep floors and check for pests.
Organize tools or storage boxes.

The Texas Advantage: Local Cleaning Insights

Hard Water: Use vinegar to dissolve calcium buildup in showers and sinks.
Dust Control: Change HVAC filters regularly to combat Texas dust.
Pest Prevention: Seal cracks in walls or floors to keep out critters common in warmer climates.

When to Call the Pros

While DIY cleaning works for small spaces, hiring professionals like Lilly’s Cleaning Service ensures:

Time Savings: Focus on unpacking while we handle the scrubbing.
Expertise: We know how to tackle Texas-specific challenges.
Equipment: Industrial-grade tools for deeper sanitization.

Schedule your move-in clean today and enjoy your new home faster!

FAQs About Move-In Cleaning

Q: How long does a move-in clean take?
A: Depending on home size, 4–8 hours. Larger Texas homes may require a team.

Q: Can I clean myself instead of hiring a service?
A: Yes, but professionals ensure no detail is missed—especially in high-traffic areas.

Q: What’s the average cost in Texas?
A: Prices vary, but Lilly’s offers competitive rates with customizable packages.

Final Touches for a Fresh Start

After cleaning:

Light a scented candle or use an essential oil diffuser.
Unpack bedding and towels first for instant comfort.
Take a moment to celebrate your new beginning!

Let Lilly’s Cleaning Service Handle Your Move-In Clean!

Why stress over scrubbing when you can start enjoying your Texas home? At Lilly’s Cleaning Service, we pride ourselves on delivering meticulous, affordable cleans tailored to your needs. Whether you’re in Houston, San Antonio, or a rural Texas town, we’re here to help.

📞 Contact us today to book your move-in cleaning and cross “deep clean” off your checklist!