When you're moving into a new home, cleaning your space before settling in helps you start fresh. After handling the kitchen and bathroom, your next step should be the living room and bedrooms. These are the places where you'll rest, relax, and spend most of your time. Making sure they’re clean, dust-free, and fresh makes a big difference.
This home cleaning checklist focuses on what to do in both rooms, including simple techniques and a few areas people often forget. With the right approach and proper cleaning supplies, the whole process becomes easier and more effective.
Start with Dust and Surfaces
Begin by removing dust from all visible and hidden areas. Wipe down windowsills, shelves, picture frames, tables, and baseboards using a microfiber cloth. Always start from the top, like curtain rods and fan blades, and work your way down. This keeps you from re-dusting areas twice.
Don’t forget to clean behind your TV, speakers, and consoles. These spots gather dust quickly, especially near power outlets or open windows. You can use a dry microfiber cloth or vacuum brush attachment to get in tight areas.
Clean Furniture the Right Way
Upholstered sofas and chairs can hold onto dust, pet hair, and odors from past use. Before you use them, sprinkle a light layer of baking soda over the cushions and let it sit for 15–20 minutes. Then vacuum everything using the upholstery setting. This helps refresh the fabric and remove smells.
For leather or synthetic surfaces, use a cleaner made for that material and wipe with a soft cloth. Avoid using too much water or harsh sprays. If the cushions have covers, wash them before placing them back.
Lift the cushions and vacuum under them. It’s common to find old crumbs, wrappers, or coins in those spaces.
Handle the Corners, Baseboards, and Behind Furniture
Move your sofa, chairs, and side tables slightly away from the walls. Wipe baseboards with a damp cloth and vacuum the floor behind the furniture. This helps remove dust buildup that usually gets missed.
For floor corners and wall edges, use a handheld vacuum or a brush to loosen the dirt. These areas can collect hair, lint, and fine dust that’s not visible at first glance.
Time to Deep Clean the Bedroom
Start by cleaning your bed frame, side tables, and dressers. Wipe every surface, including inside drawers, using a multi-surface cleaner or disinfectant. Spray the cloth, not the surface, and clean gently to avoid damaging the material.
Vacuum your mattress, especially along the edges and corners. This helps remove tiny dust particles and skin flakes. If the mattress feels stale or smells odd, lightly sprinkle baking soda on it and vacuum after 30 minutes.
Wash your bedsheets, pillowcases, and blankets even if they’re newly packed. Washing them in warm water helps remove packing dust and leaves everything feeling fresh.
Don’t Skip the Closet
Your wardrobe or closet can collect dust in the corners and shelves. Before placing your clothes inside, vacuum the floor and wipe down every shelf and rail. Use a narrow brush to clean shelf brackets and drawer tracks. If you find a musty smell inside, place an open jar of baking soda or a small charcoal pouch to absorb it.
If there’s a ceiling light inside your closet, clean the cover and bulb carefully. Dust builds up there too.
Freshen Curtains, Windows, and Blinds
If you’re keeping the existing curtains, take them down and wash them. If they’re not washable, hang them outside for a few hours to air out. Blinds can be wiped using a damp cloth, one slat at a time. You can also use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment for a faster clean.
Clean the inside of the windows using a streak-free glass cleaner and a dry microfiber cloth. If the glass has paint spots or tape marks, gently remove them with a plastic scraper or damp cloth.
Vent Covers, Fans, and Small Fixtures
Ceiling fans and vent covers often get missed, but they can blow dust back into your clean room. Wipe fan blades carefully with a dry microfiber cloth or use a fan duster if you have one. For vents, remove the cover and vacuum inside if it’s reachable. Clean the cover with warm soapy water and let it dry before putting it back.
Switches, knobs, and door handles should also be wiped down with a disinfectant. These high-touch spots can carry germs or oils from hands, especially in a home that had previous residents.
Final Check and Fresh Air
Walk through the room and check for any areas that still feel dusty or sticky. Open the windows for 10 to 15 minutes to bring in fresh air and remove any leftover smells from cleaning products. This also helps dry any damp surfaces faster.
If you want a natural scent, place a few cotton balls with essential oil inside drawers or behind furniture. Citrus, lavender, and peppermint are all good options.
Make Cleaning Easier Going Forward
Once you’ve done your deep clean, it’s easier to maintain a clean space with small regular habits. Dust surfaces once a week, vacuum often, and wash bedding regularly. If you keep your supplies ready, a weekly routine becomes quick and stress-free.
Conclusion
With this home cleaning checklist, your living room and bedrooms will be ready to enjoy from day one. A clean space helps you sleep better, feel more comfortable, and enjoy your new home fully.
If you haven’t already, check out our blog on cleaning your kitchen and bathroom before moving in. It’s packed with smart tips for tackling grease, stains, and hidden grime the right way.
Need supplies to get started? Visit Alclean for cleaning tools, surface sprays, degreasers, and everything else your new home needs.
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