Moving into a new home is a monumental event whether you’re going round the corner or starting over somewhere unfamiliar. Emotions run high in the face of change, and orchestrating the move can be immensely stressful, from packing up the property to changing jobs.

Naturally, you’ll want to ensure the final part of the process is as straightforward as possible. Follow this guide for time-saving tips, unpacking priorities and more that will make the most of your first day in your new home a smooth and enjoyable start to a new chapter.

1. Deep clean the property

Before you unload, do a deep clean of the property. Even if things are spotless at surface level, upon closer inspection there’s often evidence of neglect in the form of grime, and thorough cleaning symbolises and sets a positive tone for your fresh start.

Start with the most-used rooms that are more likely to contain germs like the kitchen and bathroom. Scrub all surfaces with a suitable disinfectant – including the floors – and clean out the inside of cupboards and appliances. You can then move to the other rooms such as the living room and bedrooms, dusting and hoovering – and even steam-cleaning the carpets.

2. Unpack the essentials

After the cleaning, focus on unpacking your essential items. Unload your furniture, bringing in the items in a sensible order to avoid frustrating blockages in the hallway and separate rooms. Remember to use proper lifting techniques when handling heavy objects to protect your back.

Next, prioritise boxes containing toiletries, basic kitchen supplies, bedding and a change of clothes. Make sure that crucial documents, medications, and valuables are easily accessible. This approach ensures you have everything you need for your first night, so you don’t need to dig through numerous boxes in an emergency.

3. Personalise your spaces

You don’t need to focus on this on day one, but it’s important to personalise your spaces to a degree so you feel cosy and comfortable in your new home from the get-go.

Begin by arranging the furniture in your main living spaces including the bedroom and lounge. Find the best layouts to maximise the size and light of the room, making sure that they are cohesive with your lifestyle. Remember that these are just first drafts and can be adjusted.

Keep aside a small box of personal items such as photographs and other décor and display them around the property to make the space more welcoming. Incorporating familiar scents by lighting candles or using diffusers is another quick and easy way to put your stamp on the unfamiliar space and make you feel more at home.

4. Take time to relax

After the stress of navigating the move, take time to relax and enjoy your new abode! Indulge in leisure activities that help you unwind such as playing casino games via online platforms, reading a couple of chapters of your book, watching a favourite film or sinking into a warm bath.

Plan a simple, enjoyable meal to celebrate your first night. Cooking a comforting dish can help you feel more settled and will fill the flat with lovely sounds and smells. Alternatively, treat yourself to a tasty takeaway from a local restaurant, which is also a great way to explore the culinary options in your new neighbourhood.