Moving into a new home is great for a fresh start. So before you move all your belongings, freshen up your new space with a thorough clean! In this article, we are sharing ways on how to clean a new home.
We have made an easy-to-use checklist to print out. You can download it .
Bathroom
Bathrooms are usually a good place to start in a new home because they are typically one of the dirtiest places and you are bound to use them during the cleaning process.
Wipe down Windows, Mirrors, Cabinets, and More
Use a damp cloth (can add cleaning solution) to wipe out cabinets, bathroom hardware, and window sills. Glass cleaner with paper towels should be used to clean windows and mirrors.
Scrub the Tub and Shower
An all-purpose or tub cleaner can be used for cleaning most showers. But, for tile and stone showers, you’ll want to get a cleaner specifically formulated for those materials. Sponges and scrub brushes work great for getting tough dirt and grime.
A great formula for cleaning soap scum on a glass door is spraying one part vinegar and one part dish detergent and then rinsing off after about 30 minutes.
Disinfect the Toilet
Make sure to scrub the bowl with a toilet brush and cleaning solution. Use a cleaning sponge to get the lid, handle, and don’t forget the base!
Clean the Counter and Sink
Use another sponge to clean the bathroom sink and counter. An all-purpose cleaner still works great here. And, an old toothbrush does wonders to scrub around the seams.
Kitchen
The kitchen can be one of the biggest undertakings and is usually the next room to tackle.
Wipe Cabinets
Use a damp cloth with water and an all-purpose cleaner to wipe the outsides and shelves of all cabinets and drawers. Don’t forget to get any handles.
Clean the Major Appliances
Dishwasher
- First, remove all racks, utensil holders, and the filter (some you can twist off, but others may require you to unscrew them). Place them in warm water and one cup of white distilled vinegar and soak for 30 minutes.
- Wipe out all food particles and make sure nothing is blocking where the water sprays out.
- Fill a dishwasher-safe bowl with 1 cup of white vinegar and place it on the bottom of the empty dishwasher. Set the dishwasher to run on a hot water cycle.
- After the first cycle ends, remove the bowl and sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda across the bottom and run on a short cycle. Once completed, reassemble the dishwasher.
Stove
- Next is the stove. Remove all elements you can such as the drip pans and racks and start soaking them in hot, soapy water.
- While those are soaking get an oven cleaner and clean the inside. All oven cleaners work a little differently, but usually, after a while, you can wipe away the dirt with ease.
- Use a grease remover to clean the range hood and wipe off all the grease and grime.
- Then, use an all-purpose cleaner for the drawer, stovetop, and dials. If you have a glass cooktop or gas burners use the proper cleaning method.
- This is also a good time to pull the stove out and clean the floor it sits on.
- Lastly, scrub the elements soaking and reassemble.
Refrigerator
- For the refrigerator, you should first remove all drawers and bins and wash them with hot soap and water.
- When those are drying, take a damp soapy washing cloth and wipe down all the walls. It’s wise to defrost the freezer for 24 hours before wiping everything down.
- You’ll also want to move the fridge out and dust and wipe the back and side of the fridge. This is also a great time to grab your broom and mop to get the floor real quick.
Clean the Sink
Use an all-purpose cleaner to wipe out the sinks. To remove odors, mix baking soda and water and pour it down the drain.
Wipe counters and the backsplash
With a damp rag and all-purpose cleaner wipe down all counters and backsplashes.
Other Common Areas
Lastly, we have bedrooms and other living areas. These spaces typically go by the fastest, because there aren’t any appliances.
Dust Light Fixtures, Fans, and Vents
Use a duster to clean light fixtures, fans, and vents. Make sure to do this first so don’t get dust all over the place after you cleaned everything else.
Dust and Wipe Closet Shelves, Window sills, and more
Take a damp cloth and go through the home and wipe off and dust every surface you can. Blinds, baseboards, doorknobs, and light switches are often overlooked. After, you can go through with Windex and clean the windows. If you want to wipe down walls, be very gentle and make sure your cloth is not too wet or you may take off the paint.
Floors
Carpet
Consider hiring a professional carpet cleaner to steam clean your carpets. You can also rent a steam cleaner. After they are steamed and dry, run a vacuum cleaner over them to get any leftover dirt brought up from the steam.
Wood
For wood or wood-like floors, sweep well first. Then, use a wood floor cleaner to mop the floor. Your mop mustn’t be too wet so as not to damage the flooring.
Other Floor Types
Similar to wood flooring you’ll want to sweep first. Then use a mop with the appropriate cleaning solution for the floor type.
After you have gone through these ways on how to clean a new home, be sure to enjoy your new home!
Featured Image
Photo by cottonbro: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-in-green-button-up-shirt-holding-clear-drinking-glass-4108712/
