You’ve just received the keys to your new place in Inglewood. Before unpacking a single box, there’s one task that will set the tone for a fresh start: cleaning. Whether you’re moving into a newly built home, an apartment, or a resale property, there’s a good chance you’ll be dealing with leftover dust, grime, or the mystery stickiness on kitchen shelves.
If you’re like most people, you’re eager to make this house a home. The best way to do that is by making sure everything is spotless before your furniture and personal items move in. Below is a detailed checklist to help guide your first clean—and trust us, it’s worth doing right the first time.
Why Clean Before You Unpack?
There are a few key reasons why it’s essential to clean before the boxes arrive:
Accessibility: You can easily reach corners, closets, and baseboards without furniture in the way.
Sanitation: You never really know how thoroughly the last person cleaned.
Peace of Mind: Starting fresh helps you feel grounded and more at home.
Let’s break down your must-clean areas.
1. Start with the Bathrooms
Bathrooms are breeding grounds for germs—and since you’ll probably use them right away, prioritize them.
Disinfect all surfaces: countertops, sinks, toilet handles, and shower knobs.
Scrub toilet bowls, under the seat, and behind the toilet base.
Clean mirrors with a vinegar-and-water solution or a streak-free cleaner.
Sanitize towel racks, toilet paper holders, and switch plates.
Replace the toilet seat if it’s old or stained.
Pro Tip: Keep a bathroom “first-use” kit handy with soap, toilet paper, and clean towels for moving day.
2. The Kitchen Deep Clean
The kitchen often takes the longest because of the number of surfaces and appliances.
Cabinets & Drawers: Wipe down all shelves with a food-safe disinfectant. Add shelf liners for an extra layer of cleanliness.
Refrigerator: Clean inside and out, including crisper drawers and gaskets.
Oven & Stove: Use a degreaser or run the oven’s self-clean cycle.
Sink: Sanitize the basin, faucet, and garbage disposal (lemon slices and baking soda work well).
Backsplashes and Walls: Don’t overlook the greasy buildup that collects here.
Remember to clean under appliances—many grime surprises hide underneath the fridge and oven.
3. Flooring First, Always
Before boxes and furniture cover your floors, make sure they’re pristine.
Hardwood or Laminate: Sweep thoroughly and mop with a product appropriate for the finish.
Tile or Vinyl: Focus on grout lines and corners.
Carpet: If the previous owners didn’t have them professionally cleaned, schedule a carpet cleaning service or rent a machine yourself.
Walk barefoot only after the floors have dried completely—you don’t want to track in any dirt from your move.
4. Baseboards, Vents & Ceiling Fans
These often-overlooked areas gather a surprising amount of dust.
Baseboards: Wipe them with a damp cloth or use a Magic Eraser for scuffs.
Air Vents: Vacuum and dust both intake and output vents to improve air quality.
Ceiling Fans: Dust both sides of each blade, then wipe down with a damp cloth.
Pro Tip: Work from top to bottom so debris falls to already-dirty floors that you’ll clean last.
5. Doors, Windows & Walls
Fingerprints, smudges, and dust love vertical surfaces.
Doors & Handles: Disinfect every knob and wipe the panels.
Light Switches: These are high-touch points—sanitize with care.
Windows: Clean the inside panes and windowsills.
Walls: Spot-clean scuffs and stains, especially around switches and corners.
6. Closets & Storage Areas
Even if they look clean, closets and cabinets can hold dust and cobwebs.
Vacuum or wipe down all closet shelves.
Add liners or bins for organization.
Disinfect closet rods or built-in drawers.
Doing this before you hang clothes or place items will give you lasting cleanliness and order.
7. Laundry Room Setup
Whether you’re using inherited machines or installing new ones, it’s worth giving this space some attention.
Clean behind and underneath the washer and dryer.
Wipe down the machines’ exterior and disinfect the control panels.
Run a vinegar cycle through the washing machine to sanitize it.
8. Set Up a Clean “Landing Zone”
Dedicate a clean area where you can unpack and organize boxes, especially fragile or sensitive items like kitchenware and electronics. This reduces the risk of setting clean items on dirty surfaces.
Should You Hire Help?
You’ve got a lot to do already. If the idea of spending 5–6 hours cleaning before moving boxes sounds exhausting, you’re not alone. That’s where professional cleaning services like Marching Maids come in.
Our trusted professionals specialize in move-out and move-in cleaning, ensuring your space is ready for living—not just moving. A thorough cleaning before move-in can prevent future messes, save you time, and help you feel at home faster.
If you’re looking for house cleaning in Inglewood, whether for a one-time move-in clean or recurring service, Marching Maids connects you with local professionals ready to help.
Final Word
Cleaning before you move in might not be the most glamorous part of the process, but it sets the stage for your life in a new space. A spotless home makes unpacking more enjoyable and gives you peace of mind from day one.
Starting fresh in Inglewood? A thorough first clean is one of the best housewarming gifts you can give yourself.