Moving cleaning: flawless cleaning before and after your move

Moving is an exciting but busy time for most people. There is so much to arrange and one of the most important tasks is the moving cleaning. We at Moving.nl know better than anyone how essential a thorough cleaning of your old and new home is for a smooth transition. In this comprehensive guide we will take you through everything you need to know about cleaning when moving. Are you moving soon? We will help you make sure you feel right at home!

Why is moving cleaning important?

Moving house cleaning offers many benefits! First, it provides a fresh start in your new home. You would like nothing more than to start with a clean slate, right? In addition, it shows respect for the new residents or landlord of the home you leave behind. If you leave the house tidy, you will immediately make a good impression.

In addition, thorough cleaning prevents problems with the deposit in rental properties. You don't want your deposit to be withheld due to overdue maintenance, do you? Finally, it is simply hygienic and healthy for you and your family. A clean home contributes to a positive feeling of well-being in your new home. So once your home has been thoroughly cleaned, you can safely move to your new place.

Cleaning before the move

Now you're thinking: "Isn't it better to postpone that annoying cleaning until after the move?" That is possible, but there are real advantages to starting cleaning before the move. This way you can start cleaning up and organizing your things. This makes packing your things a lot more efficient and clearer. This means you have more time and energy for cleaning your new home. Yes, you probably forgot that, but that has to be done ;)

Our tip? Start by sorting out your belongings together with your cleaning team. Throw away or donate items you no longer need. This makes cleaning when you move a lot easier and it also gives you a tidy feeling.

Evacuation by a professional evacuation company

Are you at a loss because you have large items that will not move with you? Or does that old, ugly carpet need to be removed, but you hate the idea of doing it yourself? Don't worry, because there you have it house evaders for! These professionals have the experience and resources to complete your evacuation job quickly and efficiently. Whether it concerns the removal of furniture, white goods, rubble or carpeting, they will take care of it for you. Handy, right?

Take Jeffrey for example. He had a huge, old-fashioned closet that he couldn't take with him to his new apartment. Thanks to it clearance company he was rid of that monster in no time. Saved him a lot of hassle and frustration!

So why bother yourself with such a job when there are experts who are happy to do it for you? Just ask for several quotes and choose the company that best suits your situation and budget past. Easy peasy!

Cleaning work when moving

Okay, so what exactly does moving house cleaning entail? There are several tasks involved in such a thorough cleaning. Think of dusting and cleaning ceilings and walls, washing windows and frames, cleaning doors and door handles, cleaning furniture and vacuuming and mopping floors.

Don't forget the kitchen and bathroom! In the kitchen you will discover places that you have not seen for a long time because there were items and appliances in front of them. That's why you probably need to clean your countertops, sinks, appliances, and cabinets really well. In the bathroom, the toilet, shower, bath, sink and tiles are important points of attention. 

My advice? Make a list of all cleaning tasks and divide the tasks over several days. This way you prevent yourself from becoming overwhelmed and keep it manageable.

Method of cleaning after moving

Yes, the move is over! Now it's time for a major cleaning in your new home. But how do you best approach this? I have a step-by-step plan for you:

  1. Start unpacking and cleaning up. This gives you a better overview of the space.
  2. Work from top to bottom. Start by dusting and cleaning ceilings, walls, windows and doors.
  3. Then tackle the floors. Vacuum carpets thoroughly and mop hard floors until they shine.
  4. Pay extra attention to the kitchen and bathroom. Here you really want everything to be spic and span!
  5. Don't forget the details. Light switches, door handles and skirting boards also deserve love.
  6. Finally, tidy everything up and enjoy your sparkling clean new home!

Oh, and one more tip: use the right cleaning products for different surfaces and materials. This way you prevent damage. You don't want stains on that beautiful new countertop, do you?

Broom clean delivery of the house

Then the infamous “broom clean”. of your old home. This is often a requirement when leaving a rental home. But what exactly does that mean? Simply put: the home must be empty and clean at a basic level.

In concrete terms, this means that you remove all your personal belongings, vacuum and mop the floors, clean the bathroom fixtures, clean the kitchen appliances, clean the windows and fill any holes in the walls.

My advice? Take the requirements for broom-clean delivery seriously. You don't want to have to hassle with your deposit afterwards, do you? A little extra effort now will save you a lot of stress later.

Everything is left tidy

Okay, so you've left the house broom clean. Ready, right? Well, you can leave it at that, but there are some extra steps you can take to really leave the home in top condition.

For example: check whether all lamps are working and replace broken ones. Also check for damage and repair minor defects. And make the garden or balcony tidy and remove litter.

Oh, and my personal favorite: make sure the house smells nice and fresh! Open the windows for fresh air or use a subtle scent. Believe me, the new residents will appreciate it.

By going the extra mile, you not only make a fantastic impression, you also end an important phase on a positive note. That's a good feeling, isn't it?

Duration of a cleaning

Now I hear you thinking: “Okay, but how much time am I spending on all this?” To be honest, that depends on a few factors. The size of the home plays a role, as does the number of rooms and floors. The condition of the home and the number of helpers you have also matter.

But I can give you a rule of thumb. For a studio or small apartment, allow about 4 to 6 hours. For an average apartment you count 6 to 8 hours. A single-family home? Then you will soon be busy for 8 to 12 hours. And for a really large home it can even take 12+ hours.

As a rule of thumb you can use the following time estimates:

Home sizeEstimated duration
Studio4-6 hours
Apartment6-8 hours
Single-family home8-12 hours
Large house12+ hours
Plan plenty of time and divide the tasks wisely. Together you are strong and you can complete the cleaning efficiently within the desired time.

Moving cleaning costs

Then the key question: how much will all that cost? If you decide to hire professionals for moving cleaning, the price will depend on a few factors. The size of the home is important, as is the desired level of cleaning. The region where you live and the cleaning service you choose also play a role.

On average, the costs for professional moving cleaning are between €150 and €400. But be sure to compare quotes from different cleaning companies. Like this you will find the best deal that suits your situation.

Are you going to get started yourself? Then you can of course save costs. But do take into account the purchase of cleaning products and tools. That sponge or chamois does not appear by itself!

A clean house ensures a clean mind

Phew, that was a lot of information about moving house cleaning! But believe me, a thorough cleaning is an essential part of the moving process. It ensures a fresh start in your new home and prevents problems when delivering your old house.

The key to success? Good preparation, a clear plan and enough time. And if the task is too overwhelming, don't hesitate to reach out for help. With a little effort and dedication, you can leave your old home spic and span and enjoy your new home to the fullest.

Because you know, a clean house is the foundation for a new chapter in your life. So roll up those sleeves, grab that mop and go for it! You can do this. And Moving.nl is always there for you with advice and assistance. Together we will make your move a seamless success!

Frequently Asked Questions

Finally, I would like to answer some frequently asked questions about moving cleaning. I understand that you might want to know some things.

How much time should I allow for moving house cleaning?

The time required varies depending on the size and condition of the home. Plan at least a full day for a thorough cleaning. Better too much time than too little!

Which cleaning products are the most effective?

A multi-purpose cleaner is ideal for most surfaces. But for stubborn stains or special materials, it is better to use specific products. Read the labels carefully!

How do I tackle hard-to-reach places?

A (tele) vacuum cleaner with an extension or a telescopic dustpan are your best friends for high places. And with a dustpan and brush you can get into the smallest corners. No more excuses for cobwebs!

Is it worth hiring professionals? 

Do you have little time or are you dreading the cleaning job? Then a professional cleaning service can offer a solution. They have the expertise and equipment to make your home shine in record time.

What if I cannot do the moving cleaning myself?

Do not panic! You can always call on family, friends or a professional cleaning service. Many hands make light work, remember? There is no shame in delegating at all.