Moving into a new home is a very exciting time, but it can also be a time-consuming project. Many homeowners are anxious to get into their new house, but it’s important to make sure each room is cleaned beforehand –not just for safety’s sake, but also for your health. Making sure allergens, bacteria, and dust are removed can help you and your family breathe a little easier… literally.

Making sure your new place is spic and span doesn’t have to be stressful or costly; there are many ways you can get started that won’t break the bank or your patience. You might invest in a good vacuum, buy plants to improve the air quality in your home, or make sure all the filters around the house are changed regularly. It might also help to remove carpeting, which can hold onto dust mites and debris that can then get pushed out into the air.

Keep reading for some great tips on how to clean your home and keep the air tidy as well.

Invest in a good handheld vacuum

Handheld vacuum cleaners are perfect for keeping your house clean because they’re portable and can get into tight spaces, making your job much easier. They’re great for homes with more than one story because you won’t have to worry about lugging a heavy vacuum up and down the stairs if you need to do light cleanup. While a handheld or cordless won’t replace your trusty upright, they can easily keep messes to a minimum.

Air it out

Many new homes have fresh paint or new carpet, which can contribute to the quality of the air inside. Make sure each room is aired out thoroughly, especially after painting, and vacuum the floors well (with a floor vacuum or shop vac) to remove any debris from construction. It’s also important to have the home checked for radon or carbon monoxide, and to make sure there are detectors and alarms in place for those dangers.

Groom pets outside

Pets, adorable as they are, can leave behind hair and dander, which can significantly alter the air quality in your home. Grooming them outside and washing their bedding regularly can help keep things clean and hair-free, as well as reduce allergens for your family. It’s also a good idea to keep pets off the furniture, especially if anyone in the house has allergies.

Keep the plumbing intact

Plumbing issues can wreak havoc on the air quality in your home by leaving behind mold, mildew, and fungus. Make sure the pipes in your home are intact and updated, with no leaks anywhere that could lead to problems. This is especially important in basement areas, which are typically dark and can be fertile breeding grounds for bacteria and other nasty surprises.

Clean those fans

Ceiling fans can accumulate quite a bit of dust and debris, so it’s important to clean them regularly and vacuum immediately afterward. These should be the first things you clean in your new home, since it’s easier to clean from top to bottom. Wipe down the blades and remove any light fixtures to clean these separately, especially in the summer when bugs can get caught inside.

Cleaning your new home doesn’t have to be a stressful undertaking; with a good plan and a little help from your family members, you can get it done in no time. Think about your needs first and work around them; this will ensure that you and your loved ones stay healthy in your new place. A good deep clean will ensure that your house works for you and your family while keeping you healthy.