Essential cleaning to do’s before you start unpacking your new home

Before you unpack a single box in a new home, do a quick top-to-bottom clean of the empty space — it’s far easier with no furniture in the way, and it ensures the home is truly fresh even if it was “professionally cleaned” before handover. Focus on the spots move-out cleans usually miss: inside cupboards and the fridge, the stove and range hood, bathroom mould and showerheads, windows, and air-conditioning and heater filters. Work from high to low (ceiling fixtures first, floors last) so you don’t end up cleaning twice. Here’s the checklist.

Moving is stressful, and a pre-move-in cleaning checklist takes one worry off the pile. Even a brand-new build or a freshly vacated rental is worth going over before you unpack — an empty house is the easiest it will ever be to clean thoroughly.

1. Wash the windows

Windows — inside and out — are the most commonly skipped task in any clean, especially higher panes. With the rooms empty you have clear access, so now’s the time. If you can’t safely reach the high glass yourself, it’s worth a one-off professional window clean.

2. Go on pest patrol

Vacant homes can attract pests. Check inside and out for cobwebs and any signs of ants, cockroaches, or rodents, and treat or call a pest service if you find an active problem. If you have pets or young children, make sure no old baits or traps have been left within easy reach.

3. Tackle the kitchen

Start with the stove and range hood — clear any grease or food buildup, and change or clean the range-hood filter. Wipe out every cupboard and drawer before you load them; if you’re renting, a protective shelf liner is a cheap way to prevent scratches and catch spills. If a fridge is already installed, wipe the interior with a mild antibacterial cleaner and clean the door seals (where grime and mould hide).

4. Prepare the bathrooms

Check taps, toilets, tiles, showerheads, cupboards, and air vents for mould and dust, and clean or descale the showerhead. While you’re at it, stash a roll of toilet paper — the one thing you really don’t want to be without on move-in day.

5. Everywhere else

Give the bedrooms and living and dining areas a quick once-over. Check walls and skirting boards for marks (especially if the previous occupants had kids or pets) — mild soap on a microfibre cloth handles most. Check and dust the filters on air-conditioning units and heaters, clear dust from light fixtures and ceiling fans, and wipe down all storage spaces and shelving before anything goes in.

Get this done first and the rest of your move is far more pleasant — you can unpack knowing the basics are properly handled. If you’d rather not do it yourself amid everything else moving involves, a deep cleaning or move-in service can take it off your plate. And for a full room-by-room approach, see our deep cleaning checklist.