Moving into a home that has been sitting vacant for over a year comes with its unique challenges. Dust, allergens, pests, mold, and stale odors can accumulate in an unoccupied house, making deep cleaning a must before you unpack a single box. Whether you’ve just bought a foreclosed property, inherited an old family home, or are renting a place that’s been unused, the right cleaning approach can make your new home healthy and welcoming.
Here are the top move-in cleaning tips for homes that have been vacant for a year or longer.
1. Start With an Inspection
Before jumping into cleaning, walk through the entire home:
- Check for visible mold or mildew.
- Look for signs of pest infestations like droppings or nests.
- Inspect plumbing for leaks or standing water.
- Ensure windows and doors open properly.
- Verify if HVAC systems, water heaters, and appliances are functional.
2. Dust From Top to Bottom
Dust settles over time, and in a home that’s sat empty, it’s everywhere. Start cleaning high surfaces first:
- Ceiling fans
- Light fixtures
- Window frames
- Air vents
- Cabinet tops
Then work your way down to countertops, furniture (if any), and flooring.
Pro Tip: Use microfiber cloths and dusters with extension poles to reach high areas effectively.
3. Deep Clean Walls and Ceilings
Stale air and trapped moisture can lead to film buildup or discoloration on walls and ceilings. Use a mild detergent and warm water or a vinegar-based solution to wipe them down.
If the home has been exposed to high humidity, check for mildew stains, especially in corners.
4. Sanitize the Kitchen Thoroughly
The kitchen can be a breeding ground for germs in a vacant house. Even unused, it may have:
- Rodent droppings in cabinets
- Expired food residue in appliances
- Grease film on counters and stove
Make sure to:
- Disinfect countertops and all cabinet interiors.
- Run a vinegar cycle through the dishwasher.
- Clean behind and underneath appliances.
- Inspect plumbing under the sink for mold or leaks.
5. Focus on Bathroom Sanitization
Bathrooms in unused homes often have standing water stains, mold around tiles, and mineral buildup in fixtures. To clean thoroughly:
- Use a disinfectant on all surfaces: sinks, toilets, tubs, and shower walls.
- Remove and replace old caulk if it’s moldy or cracked.
- Scrub tile grout with a baking soda and vinegar paste.
- Pour boiling water down drains to flush stagnant water.
6. Clean or Replace Air Filters
If the HVAC system hasn’t run in months, it’s likely full of dust and allergens. Replace:
- Furnace filters
- HVAC intake and output vent filters
- Filters in range hoods or bathroom fans
Cleaning or replacing filters ensures cleaner indoor air and prevents allergy flare-ups.
7. Steam Clean Carpets and Mop Hard Floors
Carpets absorb odors and moisture while hard floors collect dust and insect debris. For best results:
- Use a professional-grade steam cleaner or hire a service.
- Treat carpets with an odor-neutralizing solution.
- For tile or vinyl, use a pH-neutral floor cleaner.
- Seal hardwood floors if the finish is worn.
8. Wash All Windows and Screens
Windows in a long-vacant house will be caked in grime and pollen. Follow this process:
- Remove screens and wash them with soap and water.
- Use a vinegar-water spray to clean window glass.
- Don’t forget to wipe the window tracks and sills.
- Reinstall screens only after they’re completely dry.
9. Address Odors with Natural Deodorizers
A closed-up house often has a musty smell due to stagnant air, mold, or old building materials. Freshen the space using:
- Baking soda on carpets and rugs (let sit for a few hours, then vacuum).
- White vinegar bowls are placed in corners to absorb odors.
- Charcoal bags for natural deodorization.
- Open windows for several hours each day to promote airflow.
10. Consider Pest Control Services
Vacant homes are often safe havens for pests. Even if you don’t see them, a professional pest inspection is a good idea, especially for:
- Rodents
- Cockroaches
- Spiders
- Termites
Have the home treated before moving in to avoid contamination of your belongings.
Final Cleaning Checklist Before Move-In
Replace air filters
Check smoke & CO detectors
Flush all plumbing lines
Steam clean all carpets
Disinfect surfaces
Open windows for fresh air
Replace toilet seats
Change locks and keys
Final Thoughts
Cleaning a home that’s sat vacant for over a year takes effort, but it’s a crucial step to ensure you’re moving into a safe, clean, and comfortable environment. With these tips, you can remove months (or years) of dust, germs, and grime and start fresh in your new home. Contact us today!