Moving Cleanup: Tips for Cleaning Your Old and New Homes

Moving to a new home is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with the responsibility of cleaning both your old and new spaces. A thorough cleanup not only ensures that you leave your old place in good condition but also allows you to start fresh in your new home. Here are some helpful tips for cleaning your old and new homes during your moving process.

Cleaning Your Old Home

1. Start Early
   Begin the cleaning process as soon as you know your moving date. This will give you ample time to clean each area thoroughly without feeling rushed. Break the tasks down by room to make it more manageable.
2. Declutter First
   Before you start cleaning, declutter each room. Sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or throw away. This will make the cleaning process easier and allow you to leave less behind.
3. Focus on High-Traffic Areas
   Pay special attention to high-traffic areas, such as the kitchen, bathrooms, and entryways. Clean appliances, countertops, and floors in the kitchen, and scrub sinks, toilets, and tubs in the bathrooms.
4. Dust and Wipe Down Surfaces
   Dust all surfaces, including shelves, baseboards, and window sills. Use a damp cloth to wipe down surfaces and remove any dirt or grime. Don’t forget to dust ceiling fans and light fixtures as well.
5. Clean Windows and Mirrors
   Use a glass cleaner to clean windows and mirrors for a streak-free shine. This not only improves the appearance of your old home but also lets in more natural light.
6. Vacuum and Mop Floors
   Vacuum carpets and rugs thoroughly, and consider steam cleaning if they need extra attention. For hard floors, sweep, vacuum, and mop to remove dirt and dust.
7. Take Care of Outdoor Spaces
   Don’t forget about the exterior! Sweep porches, patios, and driveways, and take care of any landscaping needs, such as trimming bushes or mowing the lawn.
8. Final Walkthrough
   After cleaning, do a final walkthrough of your old home to ensure you haven’t missed any areas. Check closets, cabinets, and storage spaces before handing over the keys.

Cleaning Your New Home

1. Plan Ahead
   If possible, try to get into your new home a day or two before the big move. This allows you to clean before your belongings arrive, making it easier to start fresh.
2. Start with the Kitchen
   The kitchen should be your first priority. Clean countertops, cabinets, and appliances. Don’t forget to sanitize surfaces to create a safe cooking environment.
3. Tackle the Bathrooms Next
   Clean and disinfect all bathroom surfaces, including sinks, toilets, tubs, and shower stalls. Make sure to replace any old shower curtains or bath mats for a fresh look.
4. Dust and Vacuum
   Dust all surfaces in your new home, including shelves, window sills, and baseboards. Vacuum carpets and rugs before moving in your furniture. If you have hardwood or tile floors, sweep and mop them to remove any dust and debris.
5. Windows and Walls
   Clean windows and wipe down walls to remove any marks or fingerprints. This can significantly brighten up the space and create a welcoming atmosphere.
6. Change Air Filters
   If your new home has an HVAC system, replace the air filters. This ensures that the air you breathe is clean and fresh, especially if the previous occupants had pets or allergies.
7. Unpack Strategically
   As you unpack, take the time to clean each item before placing it in your new home. Wipe down furniture and appliances to remove any dust collected during the move.
8. Create a Cleaning Checklist
   Make a cleaning checklist for both your old and new homes to stay organized. This will help you keep track of tasks and ensure nothing is overlooked.

Conclusion

Cleaning your old and new homes during a move may seem overwhelming, but with a little planning and organization, it can be a manageable task. By following these tips, you can ensure that both spaces are clean and welcoming.

If you’re preparing for a move in North Carolina, Two Twigs Moving is here to help make your transition as smooth as possible. With our professional moving services, you can focus on cleaning and settling into your new home while we handle the logistics. Start your new chapter with a fresh, clean space!