Pumpkin spice and cider are in almost everything, and Thanksgiving is within arms’ reach. That’s just some of the reasons why you know Fall is here. But how about if you’ve just moved into a new construction home where everything is basically new? Surely, you’re wondering about how to clean your home or if there is nothing to clean since there is still no clutter, grime, or dust yet.
New construction can leave debris in your new house, so it’s important to give your new home a thorough cleaning before you move in. While the construction contractor may do a post-construction cleanup, detailed cleaning is not included anymore. To simplify your fall cleaning checklist, here are a few tips to streamline your cleaning routine if you decide to clean by yourself instead of hiring professional cleaners.
How to Clean Your New Construction Home
1. Pre-inspection and Planning
Go around your house to check areas that need cleaning – e.g. debris and trash in the yard, or dust on windows and frames. This will allow you to plan which areas you need to start first, prepare the cleaning supplies and equipment you’ll need, and think about how you’ll remove all the junk afterward.
2. Clean from the Top
No matter where you want to start cleaning—bathroom, kitchen, or living room—always start at the top of the space and move down, then wipe down the inside and outside of any surfaces. This will make sweeping or vacuuming easier. As you’re cleaning, make sure to use the right cleaning non-abrasive all-purpose cleaner chemicals to protect you and your new home. Don’t forget to open the windows, use gloves, and wear masks if you’re prone to allergies while you are cleaning.
3. Sanitize and Disinfect
We often interchange the terms cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing – but there’s actually a distinction that is worth noting. Cleaning is the removal of dirt and impurities from surfaces through sweeping, wiping, or scrubbing. Sanitizing also uses chemicals to kill or lower the number of germs and bacteria on surfaces or objects to a safe level. Disinfecting, on the other hand, involves using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces or objects using cleaning agents like Purell, Lysol, and the like. As for your new construction home, you need to disinfect surfaces and highly-touched areas of your home such as doorknobs, toilet handles, light switches, or sinks. Meanwhile, it’s best to sanitize areas where you prepare food, like your kitchen island.
4. Hire a professional post-construction cleaning company
Every new construction home should be treated with the care it deserves. You’ll definitely breathe easier and feel at ease knowing that you’re moving to a clean and safe home. If you’re considering hiring professional cleaners, we recommend that you first consult with your contractor before looking for one on your own. The average construction cleanup cost in Houston is $525, which typically ranges between $291 and $779 for residential services. The national average, on the other hand, costs anywhere from $200 to $1,300 for a residential home.
Bottom Line
While most contractors take care of most of the rough cleanup (removing debris and the bulk of the building waste) and deep cleaning, you’ll still need a final cleaning prior to moving into your new home. Whether you choose to have a house cleaning service prior to moving or make it a DIY project if you have the time and equipment, it’s up to you.
Build with Luminous Homes
Luminous Homes provides exceptional single-family residences committed to exceeding expectations by capitalizing on over 23 years of combined experience in residential real estate and high-end custom home design. Each home we design and build is held to a higher standard of quality, ensuring that our clients move into a home that exudes superior craftsmanship, insightful design, and coveted features.
Start your home-building journey with Luminous Homes.