Move-In Cleaning Checklist: What to Clean Before You Unpack
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Your new apartment was “professionally cleaned.” Great. Now open the fridge drawers, look on top of the cabinets and check the bathroom fan. Turnover cleaning crews are fast, and fast means missed spots.
The best time to clean is before you unpack, while every surface is empty. Here’s the checklist, room by room, plus the supplies that make it go faster.
Quick Picks at a Glance
Short on time? Here are the products I’d grab first. Each one gets a closer look further down.
| Product | Best For | Deal |
|---|---|---|
| Mr. Clean Magic Eraser | Scuffs, grime and baseboards | Check Price on Amazon |
| Bar Keepers Friend | Sinks, tubs and stovetops | Check Price on Amazon |
| Microfiber Cleaning Cloths | Everything | Check Price on Amazon |
| Grout Brush | Bathroom grout and tight corners | Check Price on Amazon |
Before You Start
Take your move-in photos first. Document every flaw before you clean, so nothing you find looks like it happened on your watch. Then work top to bottom in each room: ceilings and fans, then counters, then floors.
Kitchen
- Inside the fridge and freezer, including drawers and door shelves
- Inside the oven and microwave
- Inside every cabinet and drawer (wipe, then line shelves if you like)
- Range hood and filter
- Dishwasher filter and door seals
- Sink, faucet and garbage disposal
- Tops of cabinets and the fridge
Bathroom
- Toilet, including the base and behind it
- Shower, tub, grout and drain
- Inside the vanity and medicine cabinet
- Exhaust fan cover
- Mirror and fixtures
- Replace the toilet seat if it’s worn (it’s cheap, and you’ll be glad)
Bedrooms and Living Areas
- Ceiling fans and light fixtures
- Closet shelves and rods
- Window sills and tracks
- Blinds
- Light switches, outlets and door handles
- Baseboards
- Carpet (vacuum thoroughly, or rent a carpet cleaner)
Don’t Forget
- HVAC filter (replace it)
- Washer and dryer, including the lint trap area
- Inside closets and the entry closet floor
- Smoke detectors (test them)
Our Picks in Detail
Mr. Clean Magic Eraser: Scuffs, grime and baseboards
Handles a lot of jobs, from scuffed walls to grimy switch plates. Test on a hidden spot first.
Bar Keepers Friend: Sinks, tubs and stovetops
Cuts through hard water stains and stuck-on grime. Read the label for surfaces to avoid.
Microfiber Cleaning Cloths: Everything
A big pack covers counters, glass, appliances and dusting. Wash and reuse.
Grout Brush: Bathroom grout and tight corners
A stiff, narrow brush makes old grout look dramatically better.
Keep Reading
- First Apartment Checklist: Everything You Need Before Moving In
- How to Get Your Full Security Deposit Back
- 35 First Apartment Essentials You Actually Need
FAQ
Should I clean a new apartment before moving in?
Yes. Even “professionally cleaned” units often have missed spots, and it’s much easier before you unpack.
What cleaning supplies do I need for a move-in clean?
An all-purpose cleaner, a scrubbing cleanser, glass cleaner, microfiber cloths, a scrub brush, a vacuum, a mop and trash bags.
How long does a move-in clean take?
A one-bedroom often takes three to five hours for a thorough clean.
Can I ask the landlord to re-clean?
If the unit is dirty on move-in, document it with photos and ask in writing. Many landlords will send cleaners back.
