Move-In Deep Clean: What to Tackle First in a New Port Macquarie Home

The single best time to deep-clean a home is before you move a single box in. Empty rooms, empty cupboards, clear floors — everything is accessible. Here's the order we use on move-in cleans across Port Macquarie.

Step 1: Top to bottom, back to front

Always start with ceilings, fans and light fittings, then walls, then floors. Working top-down means you're not re-cleaning surfaces later. Same for rooms — start at the far end of the house and work back toward the door you'll leave through.

Step 2: Kitchen deep-dive

• Empty every cupboard and wipe inside — including runners and hinges.
• Pull out the fridge and oven (safely) and clean the cavity behind.
• Degrease the rangehood filters — an overnight soak in hot soapy water works.
• Sanitise the sink, taps and drain.

Step 3: Bathrooms and wet areas

• Treat any mould in silicone or grout with a proper mould remover — leave it 15 minutes.
• De-scale shower screens (white vinegar for mild, a scale remover for stubborn).
• Replace the toilet seat if it's marked — it's a $30 job that changes the whole room.
• Wipe out the exhaust fan cover — most have never been touched.

Step 4: Floors

• Vacuum everywhere including edges and inside wardrobes.
• Steam-clean carpets before furniture goes in.
• Mop hard floors last, working out of each room.

Step 5: Air quality quick wins

• Replace or wash air-conditioner filters.
• Wipe down every vent and return.
• Change any lingering rangehood or dishwasher filters.

Step 6: The "welcome" touches

• Fresh soap and toilet rolls in every bathroom.
• New sponge and dish cloth in the kitchen.
• Bin liners in every bin so you're ready from minute one.

Not keen on scrubbing an empty house between packing and unpacking? Our deep-clean team can do the whole home before you move in — usually in a single day for standard Port Macquarie homes.