The Ultimate Guide to Move-In Cleaning in Singapore: What to Do Before Unpacking

SG House Cleaning

Moving into a new home is exciting — but it’s also one of the dustiest, most chaotic transitions you’ll ever experience. Whether it’s a resale HDB, new condo, or rental flat, chances are the unit needs a serious clean before you unpack your furniture, clothes, and essentials. Even if the previous owner gave it a quick wipe, there’s a big difference between a “clean-looking” space and one that’s truly move-in ready.

This guide walks you through what move-in cleaning really includes, when to schedule it, and why it’s essential for a healthy start in your new home.

👉 For full service details, visit our Move In Cleaning Service page.

Why You Should Clean Before Moving In

Here’s why post-handover cleaning is a must-do step:

Dust and renovation debris often remain even after minor touch-ups
Grease, hair, and stains may linger on surfaces and inside corners
Cabinets and drawers are often sticky or dusty inside
Bathrooms require deep disinfection before safe use
Aircon vents and ceiling fans trap dust during vacancy
Even “brand new” units may have paint splatters or builder’s dust

📌 For more general advice, see our blog on The Dos and Don’ts of Home Cleaning.

What Does a Move-In Cleaning Service Include?

A professional move-in cleaning checklist is tailored for pre-occupancy deep cleaning. It usually covers:

Vacuuming and mopping all floors
Cleaning inside and outside of cabinets
Sanitising bathrooms (toilets, sinks, floors, walls)
Removing construction dust from walls, grilles, and shelves
Wiping doors, switches, and window ledges
Cleaning kitchen counters and sinks
Washing ceiling fans and light fixtures

Some services also include add-ons such as steam cleaning, curtain vacuuming, or disinfection treatments.

When Should You Schedule the Cleaning?

To get the best results:

Book the cleaning before your movers arrive
Ensure the unit is empty and keys are available
Confirm all renovation or touch-ups are completed
Allow 3–5 hours depending on your flat size

Trying to clean after furniture arrives is far more difficult, especially for compact HDB bedrooms or tight kitchens.

Move-In Cleaning Checklist – What to Look For

Here’s a quick checklist to tick off when booking a cleaning team:

✔ Unit should be fully vacant
✔ Complete bathroom disinfection
✔ Kitchen degreasing and cabinet cleaning
✔ Floor-to-ceiling dust removal
✔ Wiping switches, sockets, and handles
✔ Window and grille washing
✔ Optional: balcony or service yard cleaning

If you’re eco-conscious, you may prefer safe cleaning solutions — check out our blog on Eco-Friendly Cleaning: Tips for Cleaning Without Harsh Chemicals.

Real Stories from Singapore Tenants

“Our BTO looked fine, but fine dust from carpentry was everywhere. A professional team made it spotless in under 5 hours.” – Rachel, Sengkang
“I moved into a resale flat and didn’t realise how grimy the cabinets were until I opened them. Booking a move-in clean before unpacking saved me so much effort.” – Thomas, Bukit Merah

For more lifestyle insights, don’t miss our Spring Cleaning Meme Compilation.

Is It Worth the Cost?

Most homeowners agree the answer is yes:

You only move in once — make it count
Cleaning after unpacking is far harder
A clean start reduces risk of pests or mold
Peace of mind knowing your family moves into a hygienic space

💡 If you’re still comparing providers, see our blog: Best Cleaning Company Singapore | Your Guide.

Final Thoughts – Start Fresh, Stress-Free

Whether it’s your first home or your fifth, move-in cleaning is the foundation for a healthy and comfortable living space. Investing a few hours in proper cleaning (or hiring pros) ensures your new chapter begins with freshness and peace of mind.

👉 Ready for a clean start? Request a free quote from our Move In Cleaning Service today.