Moving into a new home is one of the most exciting times in life. You have the keys to your new place and are ready to start this fresh chapter.
Before you unpack boxes or arrange furniture, there is one important step you should not skip: move-in cleaning.
A move-in cleaning is a deep and thorough cleaning done before you settle into your new place. It removes dust, dirt, and germs left behind by previous occupants, including buildup in areas that are easy to miss. Even if a home looks clean on the surface, many hidden areas still need attention.
This guide explains exactly what is included in a move-in cleaning and the level of detail involved when the work is handled by professional home cleaners.
Whether you choose to clean on your own or hire a Toronto cleaning company that offers move-in and move-out cleaning, such as Now It’s Clean, you will know what to expect and which areas of your home need the most care.
1. Kitchen Move-in Cleaning
The kitchen is where you prepare food for yourself and your family. It needs the most attention during a move-in cleaning. Grease, spills, and food particles from previous occupants can hide in many places throughout this important room.
Appliance Cleaning
During a move-in cleaning, cleaners thoroughly clean every kitchen appliance to remove grease, residue, and buildup left behind by previous occupants.
They clean the refrigerator inside and out, including shelves, drawers, and door seals where mold and bacteria can develop. They give the oven and stovetop extra attention, scrubbing away old grease and burnt food. Cleaners wash burners and drip pans until they are free of residue, then wipe down the range hood and exhaust fan to remove grease that builds up over time.
They also clean the microwave inside and out, including the turntable. The dishwasher interior is wiped clean as well, with attention to door edges and filter areas where food particles commonly collect.
Cabinets and Drawers
Before you put your dishes and food away, every cabinet and drawer needs to be cleaned. Professional cleaners wipe inside all cabinets to remove dust, crumbs, and debris left behind.
They clean and sanitize cabinet exteriors and handles, clear buildup from drawer tracks, and give the areas used for food storage extra attention to ensure they are safe and hygienic for your groceries.
Countertops, Sink, and Floors
All kitchen countertops are deep cleaned to remove stains, residue, and sticky spots. The backsplash behind the counter is wiped down, and areas around faucets and fixtures are scrubbed where water and soap buildup commonly occurs.
The kitchen sink is scrubbed and fully sanitized, including the basin, faucet, and handles. Fixtures are polished to a clean shine. Kitchen floors are swept and mopped using appropriate cleaners, and baseboards along the floor are wiped clean to remove dust and buildup.
This is the same kitchen cleaning process we follow in detail when preparing homes before move-in.
2. Bathroom Cleaning
Bathrooms require thorough sanitization during a move-in cleaning. Because germs and bacteria build up quickly in these spaces, every surface needs to be cleaned and disinfected before use.
Toilet Cleaning
The toilet is one of the most important areas to clean. The inside of the bowl is scrubbed thoroughly to remove any stains or buildup. The outside of the toilet is cleaned as well, including the tank, base, seat, and lid.
The handle is sanitized since it is touched frequently. The floor around the toilet base is also cleaned and disinfected. Hard water stains are removed using appropriate cleaning products.
Shower and Bathtub
Showers and bathtubs often collect soap scum, mildew, and hard water deposits over time, which is why they require thorough attention during a move-in cleaning.
Tiles and grout are scrubbed to remove buildup and stains. Soap scum is removed from walls and tub surfaces. Showerheads and fixtures are cleaned and polished, while shower doors are wiped down to remove water spots and residue. The drain area is also cleaned to remove hair and debris.
Sink, Vanity, and Fixtures
The bathroom sink basin is cleaned and sanitized, and countertops are wiped down and disinfected. Mirrors are cleaned to a streak-free finish for clear visibility.
Vanity cabinets are wiped inside and out, while faucets and handles are cleaned and polished. The exhaust fan cover is cleaned to remove dust, and light fixtures, towel bars, and light switches are wiped down and sanitized.
Bathroom Floors
Bathroom floors are swept and mopped with disinfectant. Special attention is given to the area around the toilet base where germs often collect. Baseboards are wiped clean. Corners and the area behind the door are not forgotten.
For a more detailed approach, check out our bathroom cleaning tips to learn how to clean each area properly.
3. Bedroom Move-In Cleaning
Bedrooms are where you rest and recharge each night, which makes bedroom cleaning an important part of preparing a home before you move in. A properly cleaned bedroom supports better sleep and helps reduce allergens in the air you breathe.
Closet Cleaning
Closets are often overlooked, but they also need thorough cleaning before you move in. Shelves are wiped down to remove dust and debris, and closet floors are swept or vacuumed thoroughly.
Closet rods are wiped clean, and the inside of closet doors is cleaned as well. This ensures your clothes and belongings are stored in a clean, dust-free space.
Windows and Walls
Interior window glass is cleaned during a move-in service. Window sills and tracks are wiped down to remove dust and debris that has collected over time. If there are blinds, they are dusted. Window frames are wiped clean.
Walls are checked for cobwebs, especially in corners near the ceiling. Any marks or scuffs are spot cleaned where possible. Door frames are wiped down. Doors and handles are cleaned and sanitized.
Floors and Light Fixtures
Carpets are vacuumed thoroughly to remove dust, hair, and allergens. Hard floors are mopped with appropriate cleaners. Baseboards around the room are wiped clean. Corners and areas under windows receive attention.
Ceiling fans are dusted to remove buildup. Light fixtures are cleaned so they shine properly. Light switches and electrical outlet covers are wiped and sanitized.
4. Living Room and Common Areas
Living rooms and common areas are where you spend time with family and guests. These spaces need to look and feel inviting from day one in your new home.
Surfaces and Windows
All surfaces in the living room are dusted and wiped. This includes shelving units, mantels, and window sills. Ceiling corners are checked for cobwebs. If there is a fireplace, the exterior is cleaned.
Interior windows are cleaned to let in maximum natural light. Window tracks and sills are wiped free of dust and debris. Sliding door tracks are cleaned out. Door frames and handles are wiped and sanitized.
Floors and Air Quality
All carpeted areas are vacuumed thoroughly. Hardwood, laminate, or tile floors are mopped. Baseboards throughout the living areas are wiped down. The floors are left clean and ready for your furniture.
Air vents and registers are cleaned to remove dust. This helps improve indoor air quality from the moment you move in. Ceiling fans are dusted. Return air grilles are wiped clean.
For more detail on cleaning different flooring materials safely, check out our guide on how to clean different types of floors without damage.
5. Laundry Room, Entryway, and Hallways
These areas may seem less important but they still need attention during a move-in cleaning.
Laundry Room
The laundry room handles all your clothes and linens. It needs to be clean before you start washing your belongings.
The washer drum and door seal are wiped down. This is important because mold can grow in washing machine seals if not cleaned properly. The dryer drum and lint trap area are cleaned. Appliance exteriors are wiped. Countertops, shelving, and floors are cleaned thoroughly.
Entryway and Hallways
The entryway is the first thing you see when you come home. The inside of the front door is cleaned. Door handles and locks are wiped and sanitized. The entryway light fixture is cleaned.
Hallway floors are vacuumed or mopped depending on the flooring type. Baseboards throughout the hallways are wiped clean. All light switches are cleaned. Entry closets and hall closets are wiped inside including shelves and floors.
What is Usually NOT Included (Add ons)
While a move-in cleaning is thorough, some tasks are typically offered as add-on services. Knowing what falls outside the standard service helps you request the extras you may need.
Exterior and Specialty Services
- Exterior window cleaning
- Balconies, patios, and decks
- Garage cleaning
- Professional carpet steam cleaning
- Hardwood floor polishing
- Deep tile and grout cleaning
- Area rug shampooing
Heavy Duty Tasks
- Moving heavy furniture
- Mold or mildew remediation
- Hoarding cleanup
- Pet stain and odour removal
- Chandelier cleaning
- Full ceiling cleaning
- Complete wall washing
These services are not always required, but they can be added when a home needs extra attention beyond a standard move-in cleaning.
How Much Does Move-In Cleaning Cost in Canada?
Understanding the cost of move-in cleaning helps you plan your budget. Prices vary based on several factors.
Average Pricing Ranges
For a small apartment in Canada, you can expect to pay between $150 and $250. A 2 to 3 bedroom home typically costs between $250 and $400. Larger homes with more rooms can cost $400 to $600 or more.
Keep in mind that prices vary by location and the condition of the property. Major cities often cost more than smaller towns.
Factors That Affect Price
The size of your home is the biggest factor. More square footage means more time and effort. The current condition of the property matters too. A home that has not been cleaned in a long time will cost more.
The number of bathrooms affects pricing since they require detailed work. Add-on services like carpet cleaning or inside appliance cleaning will increase the total.
DIY Move-In Cleaning vs Hiring Professionals
You have two choices when it comes to move-in cleaning. You can do it yourself or hire a professional service. Both have their place depending on your situation.
When DIY Makes Sense
Cleaning yourself can work if you are moving into a small apartment or condo. It makes sense when the property is already fairly clean. DIY is an option when you have plenty of time before your move-in date and when your budget is very tight.
When to Hire Professionals
Hiring professionals like Now It’s Clean is the better choice for larger homes with many rooms. It is wise when you have limited time before moving. Professional help is needed when the property needs deep cleaning or when you want guaranteed results.
Professional cleaners are trained and experienced. They know where dirt hides and how to remove it effectively. They use professional-grade equipment and cleaning products. Many companies offer satisfaction guarantees. Everything is done in one visit so you can focus on unpacking.
How to Prepare for Your Move-In Cleaning
A little preparation helps the cleaning go smoothly and ensures you get the best results.
1. Before the Cleaners Arrive
Make sure the property is empty of belongings. Cleaners can work best when rooms are clear of furniture and boxes. Ensure utilities are turned on. Cleaners need water and electricity to do their job properly.
Provide access to the property with keys, codes, or arrange for someone to let them in. Remove any trash left behind by previous occupants.
2. Communicate and Inspect
Let the cleaning company know about any problem areas you noticed. Mention if the kitchen is extra greasy or the bathroom has mildew. Confirm what is included in your service package.
After the cleaning, do a walkthrough inspection. Check all rooms and note anything that needs a touch-up. Most professional companies will address missed spots promptly.
Conclusion
A move-in cleaning covers every room in your home from top to bottom. It includes deep cleaning of your kitchen, thorough sanitization of bathrooms, and careful attention to bedrooms and living spaces. Every detail from light switches to baseboards receives proper care.
Starting fresh in a truly clean home makes your move less stressful. You can unpack knowing that every surface is clean and every corner is free of dust and germs from previous occupants.