While cleanliness is always a feature of Belleville homes for sale, the concept has taken on a whole new importance this year. Protect your family and display your new home in its best light with this guide to pre-move-in deep cleaning. 

1. Do a Walk-Through
   When closing is done and you've officially taken possession of the keys, head to the new house and do a walk-through of each room. Make sure everything that's supposed to be there is accounted for and no trash or belongings have been left behind. Take note of anything that may need some extra TLC during cleaning.
   
   
2. Gather Supplies
   Don't allow your momentum to stall out because you discover you're missing a certain cleaner or utensil. Your supply list should include sponges and rags, an assortment of cleaning products and disinfectants, broom, vacuum, mop, bucket, toilet bowl brush, and rubber gloves. If you're going to clean floors yourself, rent a steam cleaner or carpet cleaner at a home improvement store.
   
   
3. DIY Disinfectant
   Are you making a conscious effort to follow a green lifestyle? If so, you may prefer not to use chemical-laden commercial cleaning products. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using a homemade solution of four teaspoons of bleach per one gallon of room temperature water. For best results, use this solution within 24 hours for effective disinfectant properties.
   
   
4. Work from Top to Bottom
   You may be tempted to begin with the lower levels of a room because those are the visible areas. Starting at the top prevents dust and other debris from falling on clean surfaces, resulting in extra work. As a bonus, you'll get the hard part out of the way first.
   
   
5. Start with the Kitchen
   For many families, the kitchen is the heart of the home. Unless you're prepared to rely on take-out for an indefinite length of time, clean the kitchen right away so you'll feel comfortable storing food and preparing meals. Begin with the refrigerator and put perishable items away as soon as possible.
   
   
6. Don't Overlook the Little Things
   Small, unobtrusive objects such as light switches, door handles, and toilet paper holders are often passed by during general housecleaning. In fact, these areas are likely spots for harboring germs. During the initial move-in cleaning, nothing should be considered "not worth the trouble." 
   
   
7. Work on One Room at a Time
   When it comes to cleaning a house, multitasking isn't the most efficient method. Moving from room to room doesn't save any time and it increases the chances of missing some important tasks. Take the time to finish one room before taking on the next one.
   
   
8. Safety First
   Dirt and grime also has a negative effect on the operation of appliances and other household systems. Clean garbage disposals, run washers, and dishwashers on empty cycles, remove lint from dryer vents, check heating and air conditioning filters, test smoke detectors and have the chimney and fireplace professionally cleaned.
   
   
9. Hire an Exterminator
   Did your new home sit unoccupied before you purchased it? Get peace of mind by hiring an exterminator to check for signs of unwanted visitors.

At Strano & Associates, your health and safety is our main concern. Our REALTORS® follow a complete set of protocols to eliminate contact and minimize risk. Contact us to learn more.