Fresh keys in hand. A brand-new BTO flat waiting to be furnished. That first step across the threshold feels exciting, until you notice the fine layer of renovation dust sitting quietly on every surface.

Even newly completed flats collect an impressive amount of construction debris. Fine cement powder hides in corners. Wood dust settles inside cabinets. Tile grout residue lingers on floors. Before you unpack boxes and arrange furniture, a proper deep clean makes all the difference.

Many new homeowners in Singapore choose professional home cleaning services to tackle this stage because renovation dust is far more stubborn than regular household dirt. But whether you plan to DIY or hire help, having a clear checklist ensures nothing gets overlooked.

Below is a comprehensive 50-point dust-free checklist to help you start your new chapter in a truly clean space.

Why BTO Flats Need A Proper Post-Renovation Clean

Renovation dust isn’t just unsightly. It can:

• Trigger allergies and respiratory irritation
• Settle into air-conditioning systems
• Stick to surfaces and dull new finishes
• Create fine scratches if wiped incorrectly

Dust particles from cement and plaster are extremely fine. Regular mopping alone often spreads them around rather than removing them.

A structured, room-by-room checklist ensures your flat is properly reset before move-in day.

The 50-Point Dust-Free Checklist

Living Room & Common Areas (10 Points)

1. Wipe down all walls to remove fine dust.
2. Clean ceiling corners and edges.
3. Dust light fixtures and ceiling fans.
4. Wipe switches and electrical sockets.
5. Clean window frames and tracks.
6. Remove stickers and adhesive residue from glass panels.
7. Vacuum and mop floors thoroughly.
8. Clean skirting boards.
9. Wipe built-in shelves and cabinets (inside and outside).
10. Vacuum air vents and wipe air-conditioner exteriors.

Pay special attention to window tracks. They trap a surprising amount of grit.

Bedrooms (8 Points)

11. Wipe wardrobes internally (top panels often hold dust).
12. Clean wardrobe hinges and runners.
13. Dust curtain rails.
14. Wipe down door frames.
15. Clean door handles.
16. Vacuum corners where walls meet floors.
17. Wipe window grills.
18. Mop floors twice if necessary.

Even unused bedrooms accumulate fine powder from drilling and carpentry work.

Kitchen (12 Points)

19. Clean all cabinet interiors.
20. Wipe cabinet tops (a common dust trap).
21. Remove protective plastic from surfaces.
22. Clean backsplash tiles.
23. Wipe electrical appliances (if already installed).
24. Degrease hood exterior.
25. Clean sink and faucet thoroughly.
26. Flush plumbing to remove residue.
27. Wipe under-sink storage.
28. Clean drawer runners.
29. Mop floors with a microfibre mop.
30. Polish countertop surfaces.

Fine sawdust from carpentry work often hides behind drawer panels and inside cabinet hinges.

Bathrooms (10 Points)

31. Scrub wall tiles to remove grout haze.
32. Clean mirrors properly.
33. Disinfect toilet bowl and seat.
34. Wipe down shower screens.
35. Remove silicone residue if present.
36. Descale taps and fixtures.
37. Clean Dirty Bathroom Floor Corners.
38. Wipe under sink cabinetry.
39. Clean floor traps and drains.
40. Mop the bathroom floor twice.

Bathroom floor corners are notorious for trapping cement dust and tile debris, especially after grouting work.

Doors, Windows & Fixtures (5 Points)

41. Wipe all door surfaces.
42. Clean metal handles and knobs.
43. Remove paint splashes from hinges.
44. Polish glass panels.
45. Check and clean sliding door tracks.

Hidden & Often Forgotten Spots (5 Points)

46. Vacuum air-conditioning filters.
47. Clean behind fixed appliances.
48. Wipe the top of built-in wardrobes.
49. Dust electrical distribution box exterior.
50. Vacuum entryway shoe cabinet thoroughly.

Hidden spots are where the heaviest dust tends to settle.

DIY Or Professional Cleaning?

Some homeowners prefer to tackle cleaning themselves to save costs. If you do, remember:

• Use microfibre cloths to trap fine particles
• Vacuum before mopping
• Avoid dry sweeping (it spreads dust)
• Change mop water frequently

However, post-renovation dust behaves differently from everyday dirt. It clings to surfaces and requires specific techniques to remove safely without scratching tiles, glass or laminates.

Professional cleaners use industrial-grade vacuums and specialised solutions designed for post-renovation cleaning. This is especially useful for larger BTO units or heavily renovated flats.

Health Matters More Than You Think

New homes should feel safe and fresh. But renovation dust can linger in air vents and soft furnishings long after visible debris is gone.

Taking the time to deep clean:

• Reduces allergens
• Improves indoor air quality
• Protects new surfaces
• Prevents dust from circulating through air-conditioning

A properly cleaned home also makes unpacking far more pleasant. There’s something reassuring about placing your belongings into cupboards that are truly dust-free.

When Is The Best Time To Clean?

Schedule your deep clean:

• After all renovation work is fully completed
• Before moving in furniture
• Before installing curtains and soft furnishings

Cleaning before furniture arrives allows full access to corners, walls and floors without obstruction.

If your renovation timeline is tight, book your cleaning in advance to avoid delays.

A Fresh Start Deserves A Fresh Space

A BTO flat represents years of planning, saving and anticipation. Starting life there with hidden renovation dust lingering around doesn’t feel right.

Following a detailed checklist ensures you don’t miss key areas. Whether you choose to DIY or hire professionals, the goal is simple: eliminate hidden debris so your home truly feels new.

If you’d prefer to leave the hard work to experienced hands, consider engaging Home Cleaning SG to handle your post-renovation cleaning professionally and efficiently. Our team understands exactly where renovation dust hides and how to remove it thoroughly, so you can focus on settling into your new home with peace of mind.

Your BTO journey deserves a clean beginning.