How to Clean Furniture Before Moving

Cleaning furniture before moving is one of the smartest things you can do to protect your items, keep your new home clean, and ensure a smooth relocation. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, properly cleaning and preparing your furniture prevents damage, reduces allergens, and saves time on move-in day.

This  explains exactly how to clean furniture before moving, with professional techniques for wood, leather, mattresses, glass, metal, and upholstered pieces. If you want the cleanest, safest, and most efficient move possible, this is the guide you need.

Why You Should Clean Furniture Before Moving

Cleaning furniture before packing is essential for:

• Preventing scratches → dirt and debris act like sandpaper

• Reducing allergens → dust, dander, and mold spores get left behind

• Avoiding odors → especially from upholstery and mattresses

• Stopping pests → insects can hide in cushions and corners

• Keeping movers safe → clean surfaces are easier to handle

A clean move = a fresh start.

How to Clean Furniture Before Moving

1. How to Clean Upholstered Furniture Before Moving

Upholstered sofas, sectionals, recliners, and chairs collect dust, sweat, and food particles. Here’s how to deep-clean them before a move.

Step 1: Vacuum Thoroughly

Use an upholstery attachment to clean:

• Cushions

• Seams

• Under cushions

• Armrests and back panels

Step 2: Spot Clean Stains

Mix a safe DIY cleaner:

• 2 cups warm water

• 1 tsp dish soap

• 1 tsp white vinegar

Blot stains gently—never rub.

Step 3: Steam Clean (Recommended)

Steam kills bacteria, removes odors, and deep-cleans fabric fibers.

Step 4: Deodorize

Sprinkle baking soda → let sit 20 mins → vacuum again.

✔ Wrap dried furniture with breathable covers, not plastic.

2. How to Clean Leather Furniture Before Moving

Leather needs gentle care to avoid cracking during transport.

Step 1: Dust with a microfiber cloth

This removes surface dirt that could scratch the leather.

Step 2: Clean with a mild leather solution

Mix:

• 1 cup water

• A few drops of mild soap

Wipe lightly, then dry immediately.

Step 3: Condition the leather

Prevents drying and cracking during temperature changes in the truck.

3. How to Clean Wood Furniture Before Moving

From dining tables to dressers, wood requires careful cleaning.

Step 1: Dust with microfiber

Avoid abrasive cloths.

Step 2: Clean with gentle soap + water

Use minimal moisture:

• Dip cloth

• Wring fully

• Wipe

• Dry immediately

Step 3: Polish or repair scratches

Use:

• Wood polish

• Scratch markers

• A walnut (natural method)

Step 4: Protect with blankets

NEVER wrap raw wood directly in plastic—this traps moisture.

4. How to Clean Mattresses Before Moving

Mattresses absorb sweat, dust, mites, and odors—so clean them thoroughly.

Step 1: Vacuum with HEPA

Focus on seams and edges.

Step 2: Deodorize

Sprinkle baking soda; leave for 20–60 minutes.

Step 3: Air out in sunlight

UV rays naturally kill bacteria and freshen odors.

Step 4: Use a mattress moving bag

Prevents moisture, dirt, and mold during the move.

5. How to Clean Glass & Mirrors Before Moving

Step 1: Dust the surface

Dust can scratch glass during cleaning.

Step 2: Use streak-free cleaner

Spray lightly; wipe in circular motions.

Step 3: Add painter’s tape X on glass

Prevents shattering if bumped.

Step 4: Wrap with bubble wrap + cardboard

This is the safest way to transport mirrors and glass panels.

6. How to Clean Metal Furniture Before Moving

✔ Wipe with warm soapy water

✔ Dry fully to prevent rust

✔ Apply a thin layer of mineral oil

Protects metal from oxidation during long-distance moves.

Pro Tips for Cleaning Furniture Before Moving (2025 Standard)

• Start cleaning 7–10 days before your move

• Use breathable moving blankets for moisture-sensitive pieces

• Declutter before cleaning (donate, sell, toss)

• Label cleaned items to avoid re-cleaning

• Ensure all furniture is 100% dry before wrapping

How to Pack Furniture After Cleaning

Once everything is clean, pack properly to protect your effort.

• Use quilted moving blankets

• Disassemble heavy furniture

• Store hardware in labeled bags

• Keep glass upright during transport

• Put large items in the truck first

Most Common Mistakes When Cleaning Furniture Before Moving

❌ Using bleach on upholstered furniture
❌ Wrapping damp furniture
❌ Skipping underside surfaces
❌ Using plastic wrap directly on wood
❌ Forgetting to clean inside drawers

Avoid these to prevent damage and mold.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

Cleaning furniture before moving saves time, protects your belongings, and ensures a healthy start in your new home. With the right methods and preparation, you can move with confidence knowing your furniture is spotless, fresh, and fully ready for transport.