Post Construction House Cleaning Checklist: What Most Contractors Forget (But You Shouldn’t)

Post-Construction-House-Cleaning-Checklist:-What-Most-Contractors-Forget-(But You Shouldn't)

Regular home cleaning can be therapeutic to some, but it’s a different story when it comes to post-construction house cleaning. There’s just too much to clean, and simple vacuuming or wiping can never be enough.

On top of that, it needs more than just a random cleaning process. It requires a more thorough and systematic approach, or else you’ll just break your back without achieving your desired outcome.

So, to help you settle the cleaning part of your home remodelling project, we’re giving you this guide for a more seamless post-construction house cleaning.

Start with a Full Dust Removal

Dust is your biggest enemy in every construction project. They stick in every corner and surface of your home. That’s why you simply can’t start your cleaning process without tackling them first. 

However, not because they’re everywhere is that you can start cleaning anywhere you want, as well. Start by dusting your ceilings and walls first. Use a microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment. This way, you avoid just spreading the dust around.

Then, move on to window sills, baseboards, and vents.

Pay special attention to ceiling fans and light fixtures, too. They are often forgotten but hold a lot of dust. A full dust removal prevents breathing issues and keeps your cleaning process less redundant.

Focus on the Floors (Every Last Inch)

No wonder your floor takes the worst beating during construction. The heavy foot traffic and leftover materials are often a pain to look at and clean. But no matter how hard they seem to be put in the right order, you still need to exert your best effort.

Before you go full-throttle on your vacuum, remove pieces of debris first. Pick up the leftover nails, wood, and other chunks of materials. Aside from making your routine more efficient, getting rid of this debris first also lowers the risk of injuries.

After setting them aside, go on to vacuuming your carpeted floors. Do two or three passes to pull out deep-seated dust. For hard floors, sweep thoroughly first. Then mop with a gentle cleaner that matches your floor type. Do not forget corners, baseboards, and under appliances. They are magnets for debris. Clean floors give your home a true, fresh start.

Clean All Windows and Frames

Windows are often the most neglected parts during post-remodelling cleaning. Yet, they can instantly drag down your home’s appearance if left dirty.

Start by wiping down the frames, sills, and tracks using a damp cloth. Pay attention to every corner, as dust loves to hide there. Then, move on to cleaning the glass panels. Use a streak-free cleaner and a microfiber cloth for best results.

If there are stubborn paint splatters or adhesive residues, gently scrape them off with a plastic blade. Finish everything by polishing the handles and locks. Clean windows bring in more natural light and make your home sparkle.

Scrub the Kitchen From Top to Bottom

Kitchens demand special attention after any remodelling project. They accumulate dust, grease, and construction residue all at once.

Start by wiping the inside and outside of all cabinets and drawers. Even if they look clean, fine dust often hides inside. Then, scrub your countertops and backsplash thoroughly with a non-abrasive cleaner.

Move on to your sink, faucets, and appliances. Clean inside the oven, microwave, and refrigerator, too. Do not forget under appliances where dust and debris usually settle. 

Bathroom Deep Clean

Bathrooms become dust magnets after a construction project, even if you barely use them.

Begin by wiping mirrors, countertops, and sinks with disinfecting cleaners. Next, scrub the toilets, tubs, and showers. Focus on grout lines, faucets, and fixtures where dust and grime settle deeply. Do not forget to clean behind toilets and under the sinks. Also, run water down all drains to clear any construction debris trapped inside. 

Wipe Down Every Surface

Every surface in your home deserves attention after construction chaos. Dust settles on even the smallest and hardest-to-reach spots.

Wipe down doors, door frames, shelves, built-ins, and handrails. Do not forget thermostats, switch plates, and outlet covers. These areas often collect fine dust that can quickly spread back into clean rooms.

Work from top to bottom and room to room for the most effective cleaning process. A complete surface wipe-down helps you lock in that clean, new-home feeling.

Check Air Vents and Replace Filters

Dust from construction projects does not just settle outside; it infiltrates your HVAC system, too.

Start by removing and cleaning all vent covers. Use soap and warm water to clear out dust and debris. Then, vacuum inside the ducts as far as your vacuum allows.

Most importantly, replace your air filters immediately. Old, clogged filters will keep circulating dust through your home. New filters improve indoor air quality and help protect your newly cleaned space.

Remove Construction Adhesives and Stickers

Nothing says “unfinished” like sticky labels and leftover adhesives on new surfaces.

Inspect windows, cabinets, appliances, and fixtures carefully. Gently peel off any stickers you find. For tougher residues, use a mild adhesive remover or a solution of warm water and soap.

Avoid using sharp tools that can scratch or damage surfaces. Take your time. Removing adhesives properly gives your home a polished and professional look.

Final Touches: Odor Removal and Polishing

Construction projects leave behind strange odors from paint, sealants, and adhesives. Nobody wants to have their remodelling projects ruined by the lingering smells.

First, open all your windows and allow fresh air to circulate. Place bowls of baking soda or activated charcoal around your home to absorb lingering smells.

Then, polish metal fixtures like doorknobs, faucets, and cabinet handles. A soft cloth and mild polish can restore their shine easily. These small finishing touches make your home feel truly brand new.

Get Hassle-Free House Cleaning with APS Home Cleaning Services

Sometimes, post-construction house cleaning can feel overwhelming. Thick dust, stubborn stains, and debris in tight spaces can become too much to handle alone. With APS Home Cleaning Services, you can skip the stress and enjoy your beautiful space faster.

Our expert team handles everything from heavy dust removal to delicate polishing, whether it’s for residential or commercial cleaning needs. We clean every corner so you do not have to lift a finger. We also use eco-friendly products to protect your new finishes and ensure a healthier home environment.

Schedule your service today. Let APS Home Cleaning Services give your newly renovated home the fresh, spotless finish it deserves!

Patricia-Sabillon
About the Author

Patricia Sabillon

Patricia Sabillon is the proud Operations Manager of APS Home Cleaning Services, a top-rated cleaning company based in Ashburn, VA, and Loudoun County, Virginia. Her business, which identifies as woman-owned, has been serving the community with quality cleaning services for over two decades.

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