Getting ready to sell your home? A well-planned, thorough cleaning is one of the most powerful tools for impressing potential buyers and getting the best offer. 

Our house cleaning checklist will walk you through every step to make sure your home shines from top to bottom, boosting its appeal and helping it stand out in a competitive market. 

From spotless kitchens and bathrooms to sparkling windows and a tidy yard, each area you clean plays a big role in making buyers feel at home. This guide covers every detail so you can showcase your property at its very best.

Why a Clean Home Matters When Selling

A clean home sets the stage for buyers to imagine themselves living in the space. When potential buyers walk into a sparkling, clutter-free home, it feels more inviting and allows them to focus on the home’s best features instead of distractions like dust or clutter. 

Every shiny surface and fresh scent reinforces a sense of care and attention to detail, which can help build confidence that your home has been well-maintained. A clean, fresh look signals to buyers that your property is move-in ready, helping it stand out in a competitive market and helping it sell more quickly.

Important Areas to Clean Before Listing Your Home

When you’re preparing to sell your home, some rooms will have a bigger impact than others. Focusing on these key areas first helps make the biggest impression:

1. Entryway & Hallways: This is the buyer’s first experience of your home. Clean the floors, add a fresh doormat, and polish any door handles and light fixtures.
2. Kitchen: A clean, organized kitchen can be a major selling point. Scrub appliances inside and out, wipe down cabinets, and ensure countertops sparkle.
3. Bathrooms: Buyers notice every corner here. Scrub tiles, clean grout, and replace worn-out caulking.
4. Living Spaces: From the family room to bedrooms, dust every surface, vacuum carpets, and don’t overlook ceiling fans, light fixtures, and baseboards.
5. Windows: Clean, streak-free windows let in natural light and make your home feel more open and inviting.

Now, let’s break down each room and get into the details.

Room-by-Room Cleaning Checklist

Entryway and Hallway

A clean, fresh entryway can set a positive tone for the rest of the visit. The entryway is where buyers decide if they want to explore your home further, so keep it inviting and clutter-free.

• Floors: Whether hardwood, tile, or carpet, give floors a thorough cleaning. Mopping, vacuuming, or even a professional carpet cleaning makes a difference.
• Walls and Doors: Wipe down walls to remove smudges and scuffs. Pay attention to light switches and doorknobs—they often need a polish.
• Add a Fresh Touch: Place a small plant, neutral doormat, or subtle air freshener to make the space feel welcoming.

Kitchen

The kitchen is often the heart of a home and a major selling point for buyers, so it needs to shine.

Appliances

Start by cleaning both the inside and outside of each appliance. Pull out the fridge to vacuum and dust behind it, and scrub the stovetop and oven racks thoroughly to remove any baked-on residue. 

For the microwave, place a bowl of water with a few lemon slices inside and heat it for a few minutes to loosen grime before wiping. This will help clean it effectively and leave a fresh, citrusy scent.

Counters and Cabinets

Clear off your counters entirely to create an uncluttered, spacious look. Use a non-abrasive cleaner to make countertops shine, paying special attention to grout if your counters are tiled. Wipe down cabinet doors, inside and out, and polish any hardware for a clean, polished look. 

If your grout is stained, COIT’s Grout ColorSeal™ can restore it to a like-new appearance and protect it from future staining.

Sink and Faucet

Scrub the sink thoroughly, focusing on any water spots, soap scum, or mineral deposits around the faucet. Use a mix of baking soda and vinegar for a natural, deep clean, and buff the faucet with a soft cloth to restore its shine and ensure it’s free from water spots and fingerprints.

Floors

Don’t overlook the kitchen floor. Sweep and mop thoroughly, paying close attention to corners and under cabinets where dust and crumbs tend to accumulate. For tile floors, consider professional cleaning if the grout has become discolored over time.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are highly personal spaces for buyers, so cleanliness here is especially important. A spotless bathroom can give the impression of a well-maintained home, while even a minor amount of dirt can be a dealbreaker for some people. 

Tubs, Showers, and Sinks

Use baking soda and vinegar to scrub tubs and sinks, particularly in areas prone to soap scum or hard water buildup. Be thorough around the drain and faucet areas, as these are where grime often accumulates. If there are visible mineral deposits or discolorations, COIT’s grout cleaning service is an excellent option to restore these surfaces.

Toilets

Give your toilets a deep clean, both inside and out, using a disinfecting cleaner. Wipe down the base, lid, and handle, and consider replacing the toilet seat if it appears worn or scratched. A fresh, clean seat is a simple upgrade that can make a big difference in how buyers perceive the space.

Mirrors and Fixtures

Polish mirrors to eliminate any streaks or fingerprints, and use a gentle cloth to buff light fixtures and hardware to a high shine. Bright, clean mirrors and fixtures can make the bathroom feel fresh and well-maintained.

Floors and Grout

Sweep and mop the floors, paying close attention to grout lines. Over time, grout can become discolored, which can make the bathroom look older and less clean. COIT’s Grout ColorSeal™ can restore grout to a pristine, like-new condition, adding a touch of luxury to the bathroom.

Bedrooms

Bedrooms should feel calm, spacious, and inviting to potential buyers, and creating a clutter-free, serene atmosphere can help buyers picture the space as their own personal retreat.

Floors

A freshly cleaned floor gives bedrooms an instant lift, so vacuum the carpets thoroughly, and consider professional cleaning if they have visible stains or odors. For hardwood or laminate floors, sweep and mop to remove dust and debris. 

Windows

Clean the windows inside and out, making sure to remove any dust from blinds or curtains. Natural light can make bedrooms feel more inviting, so make sure your windows are sparkling and free from streaks. Clean the windowsills and tracks as well—small details like these show buyers that the home is well cared for.

Bedding and Draperies

Use fresh linens and professionally cleaned drapes to add a sense of cleanliness. COIT’s drapery cleaning service includes takedown and reinstallation, plus repairs if needed. Drapes and blinds free of dust and stains add a nice polished touch to the room.

Closets

Declutter and organize the closets to highlight the available storage space. Remove or pack away any off-season clothing and keep the closet minimally stocked. This small step makes closets look larger and better organized, which will appeal to buyers who prioritize storage.

Living Room and Family Room

Living spaces are where potential buyers will picture themselves relaxing and entertaining, so it’s important that these rooms look cozy, clean, and welcoming.

Furniture and Upholstery

Vacuum all the upholstery and spot-clean any visible stains. For materials like microfiber or leather, COIT’s upholstery cleaning services can tackle tough stains and provide a stain-resistant protective coating to keep the furniture looking fresh longer. Fluff the pillows and straighten the cushions to make the furniture look inviting and well-kept.

Dust Every Surface

Dust is easily noticeable, especially on high surfaces. Wipe down shelves, tables, and decor items, and don’t forget about hard-to-reach areas like ceiling fans, light fixtures, and picture frames. Even a thin layer of dust can make a room feel neglected, so be thorough! 

Lighting

Bright, cohesive lighting makes a room feel more inviting. Replace any burned-out bulbs and opt for warm, soft lighting that enhances the coziness of the space. Consider adding a few strategically placed lamps to brighten any dim corners, especially in rooms with limited natural light.

Laundry Room and Spare Rooms

Laundry rooms and spare rooms are often neglected in day-to-day cleaning, but buyers will notice if they’re neat and functional. A clean laundry room or spare bedroom can demonstrate that your home has been well-maintained.

Appliances

Wipe down the washer and dryer, and clean behind and underneath them to remove dust and lint. Consider running a cleaning cycle if your washer has a drum-cleaning feature, and don’t forget to empty the lint trap in your dryer. A fresh, clean laundry area makes a positive impression and reassures buyers that the appliances are in good working order.

Shelving and Storage

Clear away clutter and wipe down any shelving or storage areas. If there’s cabinet space, keep it organized and tidy to show the room’s potential. Buyers appreciate functional storage areas, and well-organized shelving helps highlight this feature.

Dust and Floors

Dust all surfaces, including baseboards and behind any furniture or storage units. Sweep and mop the floors, and vacuum any rugs or carpets. Making sure these spaces are free of dust and dirt reinforces the cleanliness of your home overall.

Garage

A well-organized, clean garage tells buyers they have plenty of room for storage and projects, adding value to the home.

Floor

Sweep the floor to remove dirt and debris. For oil stains or other difficult spots, a professional concrete cleaning can make the garage floor look fresh and well-maintained. This extra effort can make a big difference, especially if buyers are looking for extra storage or workshop space.

Shelves and Walls

Wipe down any shelving and clean the walls. A quick dusting of tools or sports equipment can make the garage feel more organized and less cluttered. By keeping the space visually tidy, you help buyers see the potential of the garage.

Declutter

Organize tools, yard equipment, and other stored items neatly. If you have large or bulky items, consider moving them to a storage unit temporarily to make the garage feel more spacious.

COIT’s professional team can handle tough garage stains and refresh concrete surfaces, making the space cleaner and more appealing for buyers.

Windows and Doors

Windows and doors might seem like minor details, but they play a big role in making rooms feel bright and open.

Windows

Clean all windows inside and out, making sure to remove dirt, dust, and any residue. Clean window tracks and sills as well, as buyers notice when these small details are missed. Avoid cleaning in direct sunlight, as this can lead to streaking. Clean windows enhance natural light and make every room feel larger and more inviting.

Doors

Polished, clean doors and handles add a level of detail that buyers will notice. Wipe down doors, including any glass panels, and polish door handles and hardware, and remove fingerprints and smudges, especially on front doors and doors in high-traffic areas. 

Exterior Spaces

The outside of your home is the first thing buyers see, so make sure it’s well-maintained and inviting.

Driveway and Walkways

Power-wash concrete driveways, walkways, and patios to remove dirt, moss, and any stains. If you’re not familiar with power-washing, hiring a professional can help avoid accidental damage. A clean driveway and paths create a well-cared-for impression right from the start.

Yard and Garden

Trim bushes, mow the lawn, and remove any fallen leaves or debris. Tidy up flower beds and add fresh mulch if necessary. A neat yard gives buyers confidence in the overall upkeep of your home and enhances curb appeal.

Porch or Deck

Sweep or wash surfaces, and clean any outdoor furniture to remove dirt and grime. Check railings for dust or cobwebs, and add a few decorative touches like potted plants or a new welcome mat to make the entrance feel welcoming.

COIT Service Option

COIT offers exterior cleaning services for concrete, stone, and patio surfaces. A professional power-wash can make these outdoor areas look fresh, boosting your home’s curb appeal.

Tips for a Welcoming Atmosphere

A clean home is important, but it's the small touches that really make your space memorable.

• Smell: Subtle scents like lavender, vanilla, or citrus create a fresh ambiance without overpowering. Avoid strong air fresheners, as natural scents leave a better impression.
• Sound: Quiet background music creates a welcoming vibe and can make potential buyers feel more comfortable exploring your home.
• Lighting: Open curtains and add soft lighting where needed. Bright, warm lighting makes each room feel larger and more inviting.

Repairs to Make While Cleaning

Cleaning is the perfect opportunity to handle small repairs. As you work, keep an eye out for things that need fixing:

• Replace burned-out bulbs in closets, hallways, and exterior lights.
• Tighten any loose handles on doors, cabinets, and drawers.
• Touch up chipped paint on walls, baseboards, and doors for a polished look.

Taking care of these minor issues as you clean ensures that buyers see your home as well-maintained and move-in ready.

Hire a Professional Cleaner or Take the DIY Path?

In some cases, hiring a professional for expert service will make all the difference. If you aren’t 100% satisfied, COIT will reclean, refund, repair, or rectify. 

Schedule an appointment with COIT for the industry’s best cleaning services that are completely guaranteed.