Close-up of a yellow sponge on a soapy surface during a deep kitchen clean, part of a move-in cleaning service by Cleaning FL in Tampa.

What’s the Best Way to Deep Clean a House Before Moving In?

June 14, 20253 min read

The best way to deep clean a house before moving in is to tackle it room by room—starting with the kitchen and bathrooms, then moving to floors, walls, and vents. It’s important to disinfect every surface, including ones often overlooked like baseboards, light switches, and cabinet handles. In Tampa, homeowners and renters trust Cleaning FL to handle these details so they can settle into a fresh, clean space stress-free.


Key Takeaways

  • Deep cleaning before moving in eliminates dust, germs, and allergens left behind.

  • Always start with the kitchen and bathrooms before unpacking.

  • Cleaning FL offers professional move-in cleaning services across Tampa to save you time and effort.


Why Move-In Cleaning Matters

Even if a home looks clean on the surface, it’s hard to know what was left behind by the previous occupants—crumbs, pet hair, dust, and bacteria can linger in hidden places. That’s why a thorough deep clean before you move in is essential. Cleaning FL helps Tampa residents move into homes that feel fresh, sanitized, and truly ready to live in.


Move-In Deep Cleaning Checklist

Kitchen

  • Sanitize all countertops

  • Clean inside cabinets and drawers

  • Scrub inside the oven and fridge

  • Wipe down backsplash and appliance surfaces

  • Mop and sanitize the floor

Bathrooms

  • Disinfect sinks, tubs, showers, and toilets

  • Wipe mirrors and chrome fixtures

  • Clean cabinet fronts and drawers

  • Scrub grout and tile

  • Sanitize light switches and handles

Bedrooms & Living Areas

  • Dust ceiling fans and vents

  • Clean window sills and baseboards

  • Wipe doors and light switches

  • Vacuum carpets and mop hard floors

  • Remove cobwebs and dust behind appliances or furniture


Cleaning Tips for DIY Movers

  • Start at the top: Clean from ceiling to floor so dust falls as you go.

  • Use a HEPA vacuum if there were pets in the home before.

  • Let surfaces dry completely before placing items inside cabinets or closets.

  • Don’t forget air filters—replace them before your first night.


Why Tampa Residents Trust Cleaning FL

Moving is already exhausting—cleaning doesn’t have to be. At Cleaning FL, we specialize in move-in/move-out cleaning services across Tampa, so you can focus on unpacking and settling in. Whether you’re moving into a condo downtown or a family home in the suburbs, we’ll make sure it’s truly clean and guest-ready.


People Also Ask

Should I deep clean a house before moving in?

Yes! Deep cleaning helps remove dirt, allergens, and bacteria left behind by previous residents. Cleaning FL makes sure your Tampa home is clean and safe before you unpack.

How long does a move-in cleaning take?

It depends on the size of the home, but most move-in cleanings take between 2–6 hours. Cleaning FL can give you an exact estimate based on your Tampa property.

What’s included in a move-in cleaning?

A move-in clean includes detailed cleaning of kitchens, bathrooms, floors, baseboards, light fixtures, and cabinets. Cleaning FL customizes services for Tampa homes of all sizes.


Get a Fresh Start With Cleaning FL

Let your new home in Tampa start fresh. Book a move-in cleaning with Cleaning FL today and walk into a space that smells clean, looks clean, and truly is clean.

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