ONE of the most important aspects of moving is making sure your previous home is thoroughly clean, as well as the one you are about to move into. Even new builds require a clean to remove dust and debris left over from the building process.
Moving to a home someone has lived in previously however does require some extra deep cleaning before you can move in. You must also make sure the home you are leaving is safe, sanitary and in working order for your buyers or the next tenant.
Hiring a cleaner is your best course of action when moving but to save costs and if you have the time, you can DIY. Here is a checklist to ensure you have everything covered, but always check in with your real estate agency as different states and agencies have differing standards and recommendations.
Kitchen
- Clean the oven and grill
- Clean the stove top, hot plates and the range hood including filters (pop these in the dishwasher!)
- Clean all cupboards inside and out
- Sinks and taps clean and polished
- Walls and tiles/splashback free of grease
- Ensure all benches, accessible surfaces and floors clean and free from dirt and grease.
Laundry and Bathrooms
- Shower recess to be scrubbed
- Grouting free of all soap residue, mould and mildew
- Shower curtain/screen to be cleaned
- Clean and sanitise shower, tiles, bathtub and sink
- All plugholes clean and free of debris
- Clean mirrors
- Clean all drawers and cupboards.
- Toilet to be cleaned thoroughly
- Clean all sinks and taps.
Outdoors
- Lawns to be mowed and edges trimmed 2-3 days before vacating (if applicable)
- Clean balcony and patio
- Flower beds and pebble areas to be weeded
- No rubbish left in gardens or around property
- All garbage bins to be emptied and washed
- Driveways, carports, garages and any concrete areas free from oil and grease stains
- Garage floor area to be swept and cobwebs removed
- Remove cobwebs from outside eaves, awnings and ceilings.
General
- Clean inside wardrobes and cupboards
- Clean fans, aircon and heating filters
- Clean all windows and glass sliding doors
- Have carpets steam or dry-cleaned and keep invoice for proof
- Make sure all walls and skirting boards are clean and mark free.
