MOVE IN CLEANING TIPS
When planning for winter moving, create a buffer of 2-3 days prior to closing for loading your shipment allowing you to vacate your home on-time not creating contractual issues. This also allows you to get a head start traveling to your destination.
The courteous, professional movers at Cord Moving and Storage for over 102 years have always made the well-being of every customer our top priority during any residential, moves. With this in mind, we’re happy to provide tips on various aspects of your move to help make the transition as smooth as possible.
Moving to a new home can be both exciting and a bit stressful at the same time. It’s important to keep a check list of tasks you need to complete before, during, and after your move to help ease your mind. An important item near the top of your list should be an inspection of some key items below and move-in cleaning.
Besides a deep cleaning prior to move in it is good to inspect and take some steps with the following:
Change your furnace filter and consider having your air ducts cleaned. Clean air very important especially if you have allergies, and especially if the former owner had pets, smoked or just did not keep things very clean. Even new homes have a lot of dust and debris that falls into the ductwork during construction and is worth the money to be cleaned. Consider installing an all-home air purifier and a humidifier to ensure your best quality of air.
Change the refrigerator filter. Who knows the last time it was changed and fresh tasting, safe water is important. Consider having a water test to determine if you have any issues with contaminants, iron, lead and hard water (calcium) issues. Hard water can ruin washers, hot water heaters and dishwashers. Then determine if you want to add a whole home filtration system.
Drain your hot water heater. Most homeowners neglect draining all the rust and deposits that settle into the bottom of these creating lack of efficiency, higher heating costs and tainting the smell/taste of your water. This should be done annually to get the longest life from your water heater.
Have your fireplace inspected and cleaned. A dirty chimney is dangerous with creosote buildup and faulty dampers.
Make sure roof vents are clear and attic fans are working. Proper air circulation plays a major role both the cooling and heating of your home.
Consider a battery back up system if you have a sump pump. Your basement will flood with heavy rain for an extended period of time if your electricity is out.
Do a radon test if it was not performed during your inspection. This is a dangerous gas and can be remediated with a radon fan system for less than $1,000.
Make certain all your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have new batteries and are functional. Make certain that you have operating fire extinguishers in the home, BBQ area and garage.
Change out all your lighting to LED. These bulbs last for years, produce better light and save on electricity.
Whether you’re moving to a new home or one that was previously occupied, giving your new home a comprehensive and thorough cleaning is a highly desirable and easier with your home empty. New home construction may leave dust, dirt, and debris while existing homes need to be deep cleaned because previous occupants may have had years to “leave their mark” on your new home.
Start your move in cleaning by purchasing a collection of cleaning supplies, including:
- Microfiber cloths
- Rubber gloves
- All-purpose cleaner
- Glass cleaner
- Broom
- Bucket and mop
- De-greasing cleaner
- Sponges
- Scrub brushes
- Disinfecting wipes
- Toilet brush
- Vacuum cleaner
Now that you have all your cleaning supplies, it’s time to get to work! Begin the move in cleaning process by cleaning the bathrooms. Disinfect the toilets, scrub the tub and shower, and clean the vanity and mirrors thoroughly. Don’t forget to clean all the knobs and handles in the bathroom as well.
Next up is the kitchen. Your kitchen contains major appliances such as refrigerators and stoves. Pull all the drawers out of the fridge and give them a thorough wipe down. Do the same to the entire inside of the refrigerator. You should pull the unit out a bit to clean the sides as well as the floor where it’s located. The stove will also need a complete wipe down, both inside the range as well as the outside.
The exterior and interior of the dishwasher also need to be cleaned. Cleaning kitchen cabinets is important because there may be crumbs and dust in crevices and other parts of the cabinet. Use a cloth and any all-purpose cleaner to wipe down the inside and outside of the cabinets. Kitchen counters and backsplashes will also need a complete wipe down. Hardwood floors should be swept thoroughly before being cleaned with a mop and the appropriate cleaning solution, depending on the material.
Next up: bedrooms. Bedrooms may or may not include carpet. If they do have carpet, consider a steam clean to make sure they’re as clean as possible. At a minimum, vacuum the carpet to get rid of any dust and pet dander that may be lurking. The walls can be cleaned with soap using cloths and paper towels.
What if I Don’t Want to Do This?
DIY may not be your thing. You may prefer a professional cleaning company to complete this task. If so, there are many reputable cleaning companies in St. Louis you can choose from after doing a little research.
Cleaning Services – St.Louis
Cleaning companies such as Green Angel Cleaning, Better Life Maids, or Heavenly Scent, among many others, all service the St. Louis area. Read their reviews, get a quote, and make the choice that best fits your move in cleaning needs.
Move in cleaning is a critical part of every move, whether you do it yourself or hire a professional cleaning company. Cord Moving has years of experience as a professional moving company in and around St. Louis. Call us at 888-295-3374 and make your moving experience smooth and easy! Check out our customer reviews and contact us today.