Move-In Cleaning Checklist

Move-in cleaning is about creating a fresh, clean environment for new residents. The focus is on sanitization, especially in high-contact areas.

1. General Areas

• Dusting: Dust all surfaces, light fixtures, ceiling fans, and vents to remove dust accumulated during vacancy.
• Walls and Doors: Spot clean walls and wipe down doors, knobs, and light switches.
• Windows and Blinds: Clean windows inside and out, and wipe down blinds, window sills, and tracks.
• Floors:
  • Hard Floors: Sweep and mop all hard floors, paying attention to corners and under furniture.
  • Carpets: Vacuum thoroughly and consider deep cleaning carpets, especially if previous tenants had pets or there are stains.

2. Kitchen

• Appliances:
  • Oven and Stovetop: Even if unused, clean to ensure no grease or dust. Sanitize control knobs and handles.
  • Refrigerator: Clean and disinfect all surfaces inside and outside. Remove shelves and drawers to wash them.
  • Microwave: Clean the inside and outside of the microwave, especially under the turntable.
  • Dishwasher: Clean and disinfect the inside and outside of the dishwasher.
• Cabinets and Drawers: Wipe down the inside and outside of cabinets and drawers to remove dust or crumbs.
• Countertops: Sanitize countertops, paying attention to seams and edges where grime can accumulate.
• Sink: Scrub and disinfect the sink, and make sure the drain and garbage disposal (if present) are clean.

3. Bathrooms

• Toilets: Clean and disinfect the toilet, including all external surfaces and handles.
• Sinks and Faucets: Clean and disinfect the sink, vanity, and countertops.
• Shower and Tub: Clean and disinfect the shower or tub, paying attention to tiles, grout, and fixtures.
• Mirror and Glass Surfaces: Polish mirrors and glass surfaces to remove streaks and smudges.
• Floors: Sweep and mop bathroom floors, focusing on grout lines and hard-to-reach areas.

4. Bedrooms and Living Spaces

• Closets: Wipe down closet shelves and vacuum or mop the floor. Clean any hanging rods or hooks.
• Baseboards: Dust and clean all baseboards in bedrooms, living rooms, and hallways.

5. Safety and Sanitization

• Light Switches, Doorknobs, and Handles: Sanitize all high-touch surfaces to ensure the space is free of germs.
• Air Vents: If applicable, clean or replace air filters and dust vents to ensure good air quality.
• Fresh Smell: Open windows to air out the space or use a neutral air freshener to give it a welcoming feel.

By ensuring a deep and thorough cleaning, both move-in and move-out cleanings provide peace of mind, knowing the space is fresh, sanitized, and welcoming.