5 Last-Minute Cleaning Tasks Before You Move

It’s moving day — you packed everything, and the movers just arrived.

As they load up your stuff, you may not have much to do. But there are a few cleaning tasks that make sense — especially if you are leaving a rental.

Set aside the time and tools for these jobs, and you’ll be glad you did.

1. Check the Closets

Once each room is empty, the last hiding place is the closet. You definitely don’t want to leave anything behind.

Take a good look in each closet, especially in the corners and on the floor. Be sure to check behind the door.

If everything in the closet looks clean and clear, close it. A shut closet door gives you an immediate indicator that you did the task.

2. Wipe Kitchen Surfaces

You’ll probably use the kitchen on the day you move, to get water or prepare a last meal. As a result, you may need to spend the most cleaning time here.

Start by cleaning the upper cabinets, ensuring that each one is empty. Next, move to the countertops and sink. A quick wipe-down may be all you need.

If you leave any appliances behind, confirm that they are clean inside and out. The last step is to wipe the floor.

3. Clean Bathrooms

Like the kitchen, you’ll probably use the bathrooms a few times before you move. However, since you can deep clean a bathroom almost any time in the days prior, you might only need to do a little before you leave.

Rinse and wipe the shower and bathtub. If you have a shower curtain, remove it. Next, wipe down the sink, countertop, and mirror.

Give the toilet a thorough cleaning, and be sure to flush it before you go.

4. Vacuum Walkways

Loading a moving vehicle involves a lot of walking in and out of the house. There’s a high likelihood that the floors will accumulate a little dirt.

Follow the movers’ path so that you know where to clean as they finish with the room, vacuum or sweep the pathways. Be ready to spot-clean hard floors, especially if you move on a wet or muddy day.

The last place to sweep is the entryway. If you have a welcome mat, you can take it and clean under it.

5. Empty the Trash

The last-minute tasks of moving can produce a surprising amount of trash. Garbage cans are probably the last items you’ll remove from the home.

Keep a few extra garbage bags handy to toss any miscellaneous trash that may be left behind from packing and moving. 

You may need to arrange for your city to pick up your outdoor trash and recycling bins. However, since you don’t know how long it will be before the new owner takes possession, it’s best to avoid filling the containers with the garbage that can rot.

Make Your Move Simple

The last-minute cleaning tasks before you move may feel like they will take forever. But, with these tips, you can simplify it. To get a quote for your upcoming move, contact us today.