Again? Yes, it’s always a good idea to clean one more time before you move in. After years of occupancy a home can be covered with contaminants and germs left behind by previous tenants and their pets. Landlords and property managers require a minimum “broom clean” when a renter leaves which isn’t much. Even if it looks pretty clean, thoroughly wipe down all surfaces yourself or hire somebody to ensure a clean and beautiful home awaits you on move-in day.
It may seem daunting at first but you won’t take long disinfecting an empty home especially if it’s already “broom clean”. An empty move in home cleaning will be a breeze compared to a move out clean. If the home comes furnished, it’s still easy since there’s no clutter getting in your way. Let’s start with this guide to cleaning before you move in:
Work your way down from the top
When cleaning a rental home yourself, wipe from high to low so any residual dirt or dirt falls onto lower surfaces and eventually on the floor. Sweep it up at the end.
Must clean areas: Kitchen and Bathroom
Although your new kitchen is likely to have been cleaned prior to your move-in, wipe it down once more for your own peace of mind. Spray the kitchen cabinets, shelves both interiors & exteriors with disinfectant and let it sit for a few minutes. Wipe off with a clean microfiber cloth. Next, do the same for your kitchen appliances such as the microwave, stove top, oven, range hood and refrigerator. Clean the countertops and walls before finishing up with the kitchen sink. Hint: throw citrus peels down the garbage disposal to get rid of bad smells. Mop the floors last. Remember to leave the kitchen appliances and cabinet open to dry. Your kitchen cleaning is complete!
The bathroom is another area you must sterilize. We recommend to replace your toilet seat for hygiene purposes. Systematically spray and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off wall tiles, cabinets, shower, bathtub, grout, sinks, toilet and the floor. Scrub the bathrooms again if you want to but it isn’t necessary.
Pace yourself and move on to bedrooms, living room and dining room
This section covers the majority of the square footage in your home. Fret not, you do not have to redo this part. You will be doing some touch up now and once more after moving in your stuff. For now, focus on disinfecting door handles, door knobs, switches and furniture that came with the apartment. Quickly dust corners, baseboards, vents, lights and ceiling fans. Vacuum the floors and you should be good. If there are carpets, do check if they have been professionally cleaned. Carpets trap dust and dirt from past tenants thus it is absolutely necessary to have them cleaned.
Pat yourself on the back. Bet you feel much better now about your freshly cleaned rental home.
