Below, I have a last minute moving checklist for you of important things to clean, to make your moving experience go more smoothly!
Moving to a new place is a whirlwind of anticipation, chaos, and endless boxes. It’s a time of excitement, sure, but also one rife with overlooked details that can snowball into stress, especially if you’re doing a move on short notice or don’t have a lot of time!
Among the most underestimated and the last thing you want to think about? Cleaning. Cleaning can be such a daunting task but a strategic approach to pre-move, during-move, and post-move cleaning can transform this moving process, smoothing the path to your fresh start. So grab a family member or friend and Let me break it down, step by step for you, below!
Step 1: Pre-Move Cleaning – Declutter, Deep Clean, and Conquer
Start with the Purge!
The first step is purging! Before you even think about scrubbing or dusting, declutter. Why waste time cleaning items you no longer need?
Channel your inner minimalist: assess every room, closet, and forgotten nook. Will you keep it, donate it, recycle it, or toss it?
The fewer items you pack, the fewer headaches you’ll face later. It truly is the best way to do this and won’t take up much time at all.
Gather Your Arsenal
Cleaning isn’t just elbow grease; it’s strategy. Stock up on essentials to make the job seamless:
- All-purpose cleaner for versatility
- Baking soda and vinegar for eco-friendly solutions
- Microfiber cloths for streak-free shine
- Scrub brushes, rubber gloves, and a vacuum with attachments for the tough stuff
Keep these in a portable caddy for effortless movement between rooms.
The Forgotten Corners
Once decluttering is done, focus on areas you’ve likely ignored:
- Kitchens: Degrease appliances, scour the fridge, and make the sink gleam.
- Bathrooms: Tackle grout, sanitize toilets, and descale faucets for that spa-level shine.
- Windows and Mirrors: A streak-free finish invites light and brightens your space.
- Baseboards and Floors: Dust, vacuum, mop. They’re the unsung heroes of clean spaces.
If you’re leaving a rental, this meticulous approach might be your ticket to a full security deposit refund!
Step 2: Cleaning During the Move – Staying Ahead of the Chaos
Maintain the Pathways
Boxes, packing supplies, furniture, and frantic feet—it’s a recipe for dirt tracking and potential damage. Regularly sweep or vacuum high-traffic areas to keep the mess manageable and have trash bags for any and all trash. Want to go the extra mile? It’s a good idea to use floor protectors to shield surfaces from scrapes and scuffs.
The Overlooked Moving Truck
Think about it: How clean is the vehicle transporting your life? A quick sweep and a tarp lining can prevent unseen dirt or pests from hitching a ride into your new home.
Pre-Pack Polish
Dust and wipe down household items like furniture, appliances, and even décor before packing them up. I also feel it is one of the most important things to do! This simple step minimizes the grime that follows you from your current home to your new home.
Step 3: Post-Move Cleaning – Turn the Blank Slate Into Home
Start Before the Boxes Arrive
Cleaning an empty house is exponentially easier than navigating around piles of belongings. If you can, tackle this step before the professional movers unload, I highly recommend doing so. Allow yourself enough time to do this.
Focus on High-Impact Areas
- The Kitchen: Sanitize counters, scrub the sink, clean inside cabinets, and tackle the fridge and oven—two areas previous owners may have neglected.
- The Bathroom: Replace toilet seats (instant peace of mind), sanitize every surface, and descale faucets and showerheads.
- The Floors: Carpets benefit from professional steam cleaning to banish allergens and odors from your pets. Hardwood or laminate? Sweep and mop with care using the right products.
- Airflow Essentials: Replace HVAC filters and vacuum air vents. Fresh air, fresh start.
Don’t Forget Hidden Spaces!
- Ceiling fans and light fixtures: Dust loves these out-of-reach spots.
- Closets: Vacuum and wipe them down—fresh spaces for fresh starts.
- Windows and blinds: Clean glass panes and address dusty blinds for a clear view of your new surroundings.
Step 4: Establish a Maintenance Routine – Small Steps, Big Wins
You’ve deep-cleaned your way to a spotless home—now what? Avoid letting dirt sneak back in by setting a manageable schedule:
- Daily: Wipe down counters, sweep high-traffic areas, and tackle spills immediately.
- Weekly: Vacuum carpets, mop floors, and dust surfaces.
- Monthly: Deep-clean appliances, check HVAC filters, and revisit neglected nooks like ceiling corners.
Breaking a time-consuming task into bite-sized tasks prevents overwhelming buildup and ensures your space remains a sanctuary.
Common Challenges and Clever Solutions
Mystery Wall Stains
A scuff or mark on freshly painted walls can feel like a disaster. Solution? A magic eraser or a gentle baking soda-water mix often works wonders.
Lingering Odors
Unpleasant smells can dampen the excitement of a new home. Start by airing out the space. Then, use bowls of baking soda or activated charcoal to absorb odors. If they persist, it might be time to clean air ducts or consult a cleaning professional.
Sticky Surprises
Found some stubborn residue? Try warm, soapy water first. If that fails, turn to rubbing alcohol or an adhesive remover. Test a small area to ensure it won’t damage the surface.
The Power of Cleaning for a Fresh Start
Moving isn’t just about transporting belongings; it’s about creating a foundation for your future, even if it is a last-minute move. By prioritizing cleaning at every stage—from decluttering before moving day to scrubbing the nooks and crannies of your new home—you’re setting the tone for a fresh, stress-free chapter.
Sure, the process might feel daunting at the moment, but the rewards are undeniable. A well-cleaned home isn’t just spotless; it’s a space that feels truly yours.
So, take a deep breath, roll up your sleeves, gather supplies to clean, and get ready to turn your new house into a haven. Good luck!
Grab The Last Minute Moving Checklist!
I made a last minute moving checklist for you to help your move go more smoothly! You can either CLICK THIS LINK or click the picture of the checklist below, download it and print it out! Happy moving!
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