15 Vital Cleaning Tips for Move-In Day

Moving into a new home can be an exciting yet stressful time. While you may be eager to start decorating and settling in, it's important to thoroughly clean the new space first. A deep clean before moving your belongings in will not only leave the home fresh and hygienic but it also allows you to spot any issues or needed repairs. 

Follow these 15 vital tips to ensure your new house is clean and move-in ready.

1. Declutter and Remove the Previous Owners' Belongings

When first walking through the empty home, check for any clutter or personal belongings left behind by the previous owners. Contact them or your real estate agent to arrange to have these items removed. This clears the space and allows you to deep clean it unhindered.

2. Clean Inside Cabinets, Drawers and Closets

Open up all the cabinets, drawers, and closet doors throughout the home. Remove any contents left inside and thoroughly wipe down the interior surfaces with a multi-surface cleaner. Vacuum out drawers to remove dirt and dust accumulation. Add some drawer liners to give your clothes a nice fragrance. 

3. Freshen Air Ducts and Change HVAC Filter

Hire an HVAC service to freshen air ducts and vents. Replace the system filter with a new high-quality filter before moving in.

Williamson County homeowners always hire professionals doing air duct cleaning in Round Rock to ensure their HVAC systems are thoroughly cleaned and functioning efficiently. This step helps improve indoor air quality and reduces allergens, creating a healthier living environment.

4. Scrub Bathroom Surfaces 

Bathrooms require careful disinfecting using rubber gloves, a mask, and bleach-based cleaner. Scrub showers, bathtubs, sinks, toilets, tile, and grout with a brush and cleaner. Don't forget flooring, exhaust fans, and light fixtures that tend to collect soap scum and dust. Use a special cleaner to clear limescale from faucets and shower screens.

5. Wash Windows and Screens

Over time, windows and screens collect dirt, grime, and allergens. Use a wet microfiber cloth and window cleaner such as white vinegar to wash inside and out. Fully detach screens to soak in soapy water and rinse. Let them air dry before replacing them. 

6. Clean Inside Oven and Refrigerator

No one wants to use an oven or refrigerator left dirty by the previous owner. Remove racks to soak in hot soapy water. Clean the oven interior with an oven cleaner and fully empty and sanitize the fridge. If the oven is too bad, consider replacing it with a brand-new one. 

7. Vacuum and Mop All Floors

From carpeting to hardwood and tile, every floor needs to be fully vacuumed and mopped before moving in belongings. Make sure to get into corners, baseboards, and underneath appliances. 

8. Dust Light Fixtures, Fans and Blinds

Use a microfiber duster to gently clean light fixtures, ceiling fans, vents, and blinds throughout the home. Carefully remove any dust and cobwebs that have accumulated over time.

9. Clean Out Fireplace and Chimney

Carefully sweep out any ashes and soot within a fireplace. Hire a chimney sweep service to fully clean and inspect the chimney before using it.

10. Wash Walls, Baseboards and Trim

Home walls easily collect dirt, smudges, cobwebs, and sometimes even crayons if kids lived there! Wash walls, baseboards, door trim, and crown molding. 

11. Clean Electronics and Appliances

Any electronics or appliances left behind should be cleaned thoroughly including televisions, microwaves, coffee makers, and more. Disinfect remotes, handles, and buttons.

12. Check for Pests and Treat if Needed

Inspect for signs of mice, cockroaches, or other pests. Place traps and treat infestations with pest control chemicals if needed. Deal with infestations before moving in your belongings, as it is much harder to tackle a roach infestation, for example, when the property is empty.

14. Deep Clean the Garage and Shed

Sweep out the garage, mop the floor, remove cobwebs, and wash the windows and walls. Clear out and organize any shed on the property, removing old items left behind and checking it for watertightness and rot.

15. Inspect for Leaks and Water Damage

Carefully check under sinks, near windows, and on the ceiling for any signs of leaks or water damage. Repair issues to prevent mold growth. Caulking along bath and shower trays is the first place where mold grows, so replacing it might be worth doing. This is a simple DIY project you can do or hire a plumber to tackle it for you. 

16. Improve Curb Appeal

The exterior also needs attention before move-in day. Pull weeds, plant flowers, sweep walkways, and use a pressure washer to freshen up siding and outdoor spaces. 

If you don’t have time to do a full clean before move-in day, or the property is large, hire a professional cleaning firm like like P&J Cleaners.

With these cleaning tips completed, you can confidently move your belongings into a fresh, clean home ready for making new memories. Don't forget to maintain cleaning routines in your new space! Proper deep cleaning before unpacking boxes makes the whole transition much smoother.

6 Innovative Home Remodeling Ideas to Modernize Your Living Environment

Embarking on a home remodeling project is an opportunity to breathe new life into your living environment. Whether you want to enhance the aesthetics, increase functionality, or add value to your property, there are countless creative and innovative ideas to transform your home. From updating key spaces like the kitchen and bathroom to incorporating cutting-edge smart home technology, these modernization ideas can help you achieve your desired vision. Let's explore six innovative home remodeling ideas that will elevate your living space to new heights of style and practicality.

Transforming Kitchens and Bathrooms

The heart of every home, the kitchen, and bathroom, are prime areas for modernization. Collaborating with a professional kitchen and bath remodeling company can help you create a unique and contemporary design that aligns with current trends and your personal taste. Whether it's installing new cabinetry, countertops, or appliances, updating these spaces can drastically transform your living environment.

In the kitchen, consider sleek and functional cabinetry designs with hidden storage solutions to maximize space. It is also crucial to choose the appropriate color for your cabinetry, since it greatly influences the entire appearance of the space. Of the many colors available, the revitalizing appeal of sage green kitchen cabinets stands out as a unique option. Upgrading to energy-efficient and stylish appliances can enhance both the look and functionality of the kitchen. Modernizing the bathroom may include adding a luxurious walk-in shower, a relaxing soaking tub, and using innovative lighting fixtures to set the perfect ambiance. With these changes, your kitchen and bathroom will become modern sanctuaries, adding value and enjoyment to your home.

Embracing Open Floor Plans

According to Jeremy Lesher of Bluegrass Foundation Repair, open floor plans have become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners seeking a more spacious and connected living environment. By removing physical barriers between rooms, natural light can flow freely throughout the space, creating a sense of openness and fluidity. The absence of walls allows the eye to travel further, enhancing the overall feeling of expansiveness.

Whether you are renovating an existing space or designing a new home, incorporating an open floor plan can optimize the potential of your living environment. This concept enhances communication and interaction between family members and guests, making the home more inviting and functional.

Smart Home Technology Integration

Embracing smart home technology is a surefire way to modernize your living environment. From voice-activated virtual assistants to automated lighting systems and smart thermostats, these technologies offer convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced security. Integration into your existing electrical system allows you to control various devices with simple voice commands or smartphone apps.

Smart home technology can automate daily tasks, adjust home temperatures for optimal comfort, and enhance security through smart locks and cameras. Additionally, energy-saving features like automated windows and doors contribute to a more sustainable living environment. The seamless integration of smart home technology will make your living space not only modern but also more efficient and comfortable, says Chris Purvis of CCA Concrete Contractors.

Chic Wall-to-Wall Shelving

Wall-to-wall shelving is a practical and stylish solution for maximizing space and storage while creating a modern aesthetic. Replacing bulky furniture with sleek, built-in shelving units that run the length of the wall can transform the look and feel of any room. Wall-to-wall shelves offer ample storage without occupying valuable floor space, making them an ideal choice for smaller apartments or living environments with limited square footage.

Customizable shelving designs and finishes allow you to personalize the style to suit your preferences and complement the overall interior design. Whether used in the living room, home office, or bedroom, these shelves add both functionality and sophistication to your living environment.

Energy-Efficient Window Frame Replacement

Windows play a vital role in a home's aesthetics, energy efficiency, and comfort. Outdated window frames can negatively impact the visual appeal of your living environment and result in unwanted drafts, driving up energy costs. Replacing clunky old frames with energy-efficient options can instantly modernize your home and lead to long-term cost savings.

Double-paned glass windows are a popular choice, offering enhanced insulation and noise reduction. Tilt and turn windows provide ease of cleaning and maximum airflow control. Additionally, choosing energy-efficient window frames can contribute to your home's eco-friendliness, reducing your carbon footprint.

Extending Outdoor Living with Decks and Patios

In an interview Gavin MacRae of GJ MacRae Foundation Repair added “Expand your living space and connect with nature by adding a deck or patio to your home. These outdoor living areas serve as perfect entertainment spaces or tranquil retreats for relaxation. With various design options available, decks and patios can be customized to suit your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

Wooden decks offer a classic and timeless appeal, providing a warm and inviting ambiance. To get started, consider searching for stamped concrete contractors near me to find qualified professionals in your area who can bring your vision to life. If you love outdoor cooking and dining, consider creating an outdoor kitchen, complete with grills, countertops, and seating areas.

Incorporating decks or patios into your living environment will enhance your outdoor experience and add value to your home. Additionally, installing glass sliding patio doors can seamlessly connect your indoor and outdoor spaces, providing easy access and allowing natural light to flood your home.e.

Conclusion

A home remodeling project offers an exciting opportunity to modernize and elevate your living environment. By incorporating innovative ideas like updating the kitchen and bathroom, embracing open floor plans, integrating smart home technology, adding wall-to-wall shelves, replacing window frames with energy-efficient options, and extending outdoor living with decks or patios, you can transform your home into a stylish and functional haven.

When undertaking a remodeling project, it's essential to collaborate with a professional remodeling company to ensure your ideas are brought to life seamlessly and efficiently. Modernizing your living environment not only enhances your daily life but also adds value to your property for years to come. So, let your imagination soar and embark on a home remodeling journey that will revitalize and modernize your living space.