Move-in cleaning services

Moving into a new home is an exciting time. Let others worry about the little things.

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Alexandra Plesa
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When you're gearing up to move into a new place, your to-do list tends to reach worrisome proportions. There are boxes to procure, furniture to dismantle, clutter to get rid of. And while checking things off can be immensely satisfying, delegating will save you copious amounts of stress.

That's where move-in cleaning services come in. They ensure that your new space is in tip-top shape before you even set foot through the door. Here are a few things you should know before you reach for your credit card.

What's in this guide?

What are move-in cleaning services?

Move-in cleaning services offer a thorough cleaning of your new home prior to you relocating. They make sure all surfaces are sparkly fresh and that your new space is as welcoming as possible.

That way, you don't have to worry about having to vacuum, disinfect the toilet or wipe down a window as soon as you enter the front door.

Whether you're renting or buying a new place, you have no assurance that the previous occupants have deep cleaned all nooks and crannies. A move-in cleaning service will give you peace of mind.

How do I compare move-in cleaners?

woman cleaning the house

You can compare potential cleaning providers based on these factors:

  • Location – does the company/cleaner operate in your area?
  • Cost – is the price of the move-in cleaning service, including add-ons, within your budget?
  • Services offered – does the company/cleaner provide all the services you need?
  • Products – does the company/cleaner use eco/non-toxic cleaning products?
  • Reputation – what are previous clients saying?
Data updated regularly
Name Product Services offered Eco-friendly? Pet friendly Cancellation policy Flat-rate fees Locations
Urban Company Home Cleaning
Urban Company Home Cleaning
Regular cleaning, spring cleaning, end of lease
Yes
$99
Sydney
Urban Company offer a wide range of professional cleaning services for around the home. SYDNEY ONLY
Go to site
Mooval
Mooval
End-of-lease cleaning
None mentioned
Yes
Melbourne and Sydney
Go to site
Fantastic Cleaning
Fantastic Cleaning
Regular cleaning, end of lease cleaning, pressure cleaning, carpet cleaning
Yes
40% of the quote
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth
Fantastic Services have a wide range of home cleaning services, with no-obligation fixed price quotes.
Go to site
Urban Company End of Lease Cleaning
Urban Company End of Lease Cleaning
End of lease cleaning
not provided
Sydney
Go to site
Simply Maid Cleaning
Simply Maid Cleaning
House cleaning, apartment cleaning, catch-up cleaning, recurring cleaning, deep cleaning, end of lease cleaning, refrigerator cleaning, oven cleaning
Yes
Yes
24 Hours
Yes
Melbourne, Perth, Gold Coast, Adelaide, Canberra, Brisbane, Sydney
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Compare up to 4 providers

What does a move-in cleaner do?

The run-down of move-in cleaning services available varies from company to company. Most cleaning professional will perform the following tasks:

  • Dust and wipe all furniture, tabletops and appliances
  • Dust and wipe internal drawers and cabinets
  • Vacuum and mop floors
  • Clean and disinfect bathrooms
  • Degrease, clean and wipe off the cooking stove and hob
  • Clean light fixtures externally, wall mirrors, inside windows
  • Remove all garbage

Additionally, move-in cleaners are willing to attend to any special requests. Some services, like carpet or furniture steaming, will cost extra.

How do I hire a move-in cleaner?

Start by researching cleaning companies in your area and looking up what kind of services they offer. Make sure you ask for quotes from several companies before settling on one.

Most companies enable potential customers to get a quote by completing a short online form where they share what kind of services they're interested in and how big the property is. You can also contact the company via phone.

Alternatively, you can look into hiring a cleaning professional through websites like Airtasker, where you receive no-obligation quotes in a matter of minutes.

How much does a move-in clean cost?

The price you'll pay varies based on how big your new home is and exactly what kind of cleaning services you require. The average price for a move-in cleaner on Airtasker is $50 - $70.

If you hire a company, cleaning packages start around $70 but only include the essentials. You'll have to pay extra for additional services like carpet cleaning (around $50) or wall washing ($100+). Some cleaners/companies charge by the hour.

How should I prepare for a move-in clean?

There's not a lot to do to prepare for a move-in clean, especially since you're already busy with everything else associated with the big move.

Some companies require the property to be completely empty so you might have to move out furniture for the cleaning team to do their job as efficiently as possible.

How long does a move-in clean take?

It depends on the size of the property and the services you book. A move-in clean takes around 2 or 3 hours for a standard one-bedroom apartment.

What to consider when hiring move in cleaners

Regardless of which type of cleaning service you're after, there are three questions you need to answer:

  • Can I do it myself? Rumour has it that cleaning can be therapeutic.
  • What condition did the previous occupants leave the home in? This will help you determine whether hiring move-in cleaners is more efficient than doing it all yourself.
  • Which add-on services should I splurge on? Cleaning the inside of the oven is rarely fun.

Do I need to be home for a move-in cleaner?

Not necessarily. There are companies that provide key pick-up and drop-off services. That means the cleaner will come and pick up the key from you, clean the property, then bring the key back. You'll likely have to pay extra for this service.

Can disinfecting services be performed with social distancing?

Yes. You can use a key pick-up and drop-off service so you limit contact with the cleaning professionals as much as possible.

Can I book a same-day move-in cleaner?

Yes, there are companies and individuals that offer same-day cleaning services, though short notice may mean an extra fee.

Ideally, we recommend you set a move-in date and book the cleaners in advance, so you have time to research the companies you're considering carefully.

Do I need to provide the cleaning supplies?

If you book a one-off cleaning service like move-in cleaning, the company will use their own cleaning products. However, it's always best to double check.

Pros and Cons of hiring a move-in cleaner

Pros

  • Convenient and time-saving
  • Professionals will do a more thorough job
  • Disinfecting services are included
  • You're moving into a clean home

Cons

  • More expensive than doing it yourself
  • If you have a preferred way of cleaning (it happens!), a cleaning service might not meet your standards

Bottom line

If you can afford it, hiring a move-in cleaning service is a smart move. Your new home will be immaculate and ready for a fresh start. Just like you.

Frequently asked questions about move-in cleaning services

Do I need to tip the cleaner?

When you hire a cleaner for a one-off job, most etiquette professionals say you should tip. Think somewhere around $10-$20.

Is there anything a move-in cleaning service won't do?

If you need a specific service, you can negotiate with the company, but it may incur an extra cost. Move-in cleaners don't move furniture around, do laundry, clean inside a fireplace or get rid of pests.

Should I hire a regular cleaning service?

Hiring a professional cleaner to do the dirty work for you ensures that your house is spotless year-round. Most people choose to have their house professionally cleaned weekly, biweekly or on a monthly basis. Keep in mind that move-in cleaning is more detailed and, hence, more expensive than domestic cleaning.

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