Settling into a new home is an exciting milestone, but it often comes with a long to-do list. Before you start unpacking and arranging your furniture, it’s essential to ensure your space is spotless, fresh, and ready for everyday living. If you’re in Napa, CA, a move in cleaning service can take the stress off your shoulders, providing thorough and professional cleaning so you can focus on enjoying your new home.
Even if you decide to tackle the task yourself, knowing the right approach and the order of tasks makes the process more manageable. A carefully planned home refresh ensures your space is not only inviting but also safe and hygienic from day one.
What is the first thing to clean in the house?

When starting a relocation clean, it’s essential to work strategically. The first thing to tackle is usually high-traffic areas and common surfaces. Focus on floors, door handles, light switches, and entryways. These areas collect the most dust, dirt, and germs during previous occupancy, and cleaning them first sets a foundation for the rest of the house. Starting at the top — dusting shelves, light fixtures, and vents — and working downward ensures dust and debris don’t settle on already cleaned surfaces.
Additional move-in cleaning tips
- Dust everything: Ceiling fans, vents, window sills, and shelves are often overlooked but accumulate dirt quickly.
- Focus on floors last: Sweep, vacuum, and mop at the end of your cleaning process to remove all dust and debris.
- Check for hidden dirt: Inside closets, laundry areas, and storage spaces can hold dust and grime that’s easy to miss.
- Use the right products: Choose cleaners appropriate for each surface — wood, tile, granite, or stainless steel — to avoid damage.
How to clean a bathroom when moving in
Bathrooms are one of the most critical areas to clean thoroughly. They harbor germs and bacteria, so a deep clean is essential. Start by scrubbing toilets, sinks, tubs, and showers with a disinfectant cleaner. Don’t forget tiles and grout lines, which can trap dirt and mildew. Mirrors and fixtures should be polished for a fresh, reflective finish.
Finally, mop the floor and wipe down any baseboards or surfaces. If your new home has a vent or exhaust fan, dust and disinfect it as well. A clean bathroom ensures your family can comfortably use the space right away.
How to clean a kitchen when moving in

The kitchen is another top priority during relocating. Begin by cleaning cabinets and drawers inside and out, as dust and debris often accumulate in these spaces. Appliances such as the oven, refrigerator, and microwave should be wiped down and sanitized. Countertops, sinks, and backsplashes deserve special attention, as they are high-contact areas for food preparation. Don’t forget to clean floors, handles, and light switches.
For an added touch, consider sanitizing the trash bin and any shelving where you plan to store pantry items. A thoroughly clean kitchen makes cooking safe and enjoyable from the start.
A well-executed new home clean transforms your new house into a safe, welcoming home. By starting with high-traffic areas, thoroughly cleaning bathrooms and kitchens, and tackling overlooked spaces, you can create a healthy, fresh environment for your family. Whether you do it yourself or rely on a professional service, a systematic approach ensures nothing is missed. With your home sparkling clean from day one, you can focus on the excitement of settling into your new space — stress-free.
Who provides the best move-in cleaning service in Napa, CA?
At Valencia Pro Cleaning, we pride ourselves on delivering years of trusted professional service and exceptional results. With extensive experience in residential and commercial cleaning, our team combines expertise, attention to detail, and a personal touch to ensure every space we care for looks its best.When it comes to move-out cleaning, we know exactly how clean a house needs to be when moving out. From thorough dusting and scrubbing to a complete move-out deep clean guide of kitchens, bathrooms, and often-overlooked areas, we make sure your home is spotless and ready for its next occupants. Serving the region near the Wine Country and beyond, we take the stress out of moving by handling the hard work, letting you focus on settling into your next chapter.