A newly renovated home may look clean, but fine dust, paint smudges, glue residue, and hidden formaldehyde emissions often linger beneath the surface. Studies show that formaldehyde levels commonly exceed safety standards for one to three months after renovation and may continue releasing for up to 10-15 years. Without proper cleaning, these pollutants can cause respiratory irritation, skin allergies, and even increase cancer risk, directly affecting health and indoor air quality.
Why Post‑Renovation Cleaning Is Essential?
Recently renovated spaces often contain dust, paint residue, construction debris, and harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde and VOCs. Delayed or insufficient cleaning can lead to the following effects:
Health Risks from Formaldehyde Residue
Formaldehyde is a WHO Class 1 carcinogen. Prolonged exposure increases the risk of leukemia, nasopharyngeal cancer, and weakens the immune system. Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable, with formaldehyde potentially lingering indoors for years. Thorough cleaning is a must.
Dust Accumulation Affects Air Conditioning and Air Quality
Renovation dust often spreads into the air‑conditioning system, reducing cooling efficiency and causing secondary contamination. Regular cleaning of air conditioners and ducts helps maintain clean and healthy indoor air.
Furniture Deterioration
Paint, cement, and chemicals from renovations damage furniture surfaces. This accelerates the aging of wood, metal, and fabric, and reduces usability and appearance.
Cleaning Priorities by Household Type
- First‑time homeowners: Focus on removing formaldehyde and allergens to ensure long‑term respiratory health.
- Families with children or pets: Prioritize floor and low‑area cleaning using non‑toxic, low‑irritant detergents to avoid chemical residue.
- Tenants: Quick, targeted cleaning of high‑touch areas for immediate move‑in
- Families with sensitive members: Avoid strong‑scented or harsh cleaners. Choose unscented, hypoallergenic products and keep good ventilation.
Step‑by‑Step Post‑Renovation Cleaning
Step 1: Initial Tidy Up
Recommended tools: Trash bags, scraper, gloves
Clear large debris and dirt from floors and corners before detailed cleaning to prevent scratches and secondary dust contamination.
Step 2: Vacuum Entire Unit
Recommended tools: HEPA vacuum, mop, broom
Vacuum thoroughly from ceiling to floor, keeping good ventilation to speed up removal of odors and chemicals.
Step 3: Remove Stubborn Floor & Wall Stains
Recommended tools: Plastic scraper, material‑specific cleaners, microfiber cloth
Choose appropriate products and tools for different surfaces. Remove paint, cement, and glue stains carefully to avoid damage.
Step 4: Deep Clean Kitchen & Bathroom
Recommended tools: Degreaser, small brush, glass cleaner, scrapers, microfiber cloth
Focus on sinks, stoves, and cabinets in kitchens; scrub basins, toilets, and tile grout in bathrooms. Disinfect, remove mold and scale, and dust all surfaces .
Step 5: Purify Air & Remove Odors
If air‑conditioning ran during renovations, dust may collect inside. Consider hiring professionals to clean the A/C internally. Use air purifiers, ventilate well, or use activated carbon to absorb formaldehyde and VOCs .
Post‑Renovation Cleaning Tips
- Clean from top to bottom: Always start with ceilings and light fixtures before floors to prevent re‑contamination.
- Keep dry and wet cleaning separate: First vacuum off all dry dust before wiping with a damp cloth, otherwise particles can turn to muddy smears.
- Maintain good ventilation: Keep windows open and exhaust fans running for gas dissipation.
- Use neutral detergents: Never clean metal fittings with bleach, as chlorine causes corrosion. Use a neutral pH (7–8) cleaner instead.
Proper steps and tool choices boost efficiency, safeguard renovation results, and reduce health risks.
Johnson Group Professional Post‑Renovation Cleaning Service
Johnson Group provides full‑scope Post‑renovation Cleaning, covering every area—walls, ceilings, air conditioners, rooms, cabinets, skirting boards, lighting, kitchen, bathroom, glass, and metallic fixtures. Our expert team uses eco‑safe products and high‑efficiency equipment to deliver meticulous results.
From our 500‑case record, deep cleaning for a 500‑sq‑ft flat takes an average of eight hours to achieve professional standards. Our optimized service process includes:
Whole-house Ceiling, Wall & Floor Cleaning
We use industrial‑grade HEPA AirClean Miele vacuums to clean every level, including corners and drawers. Fine renovation dust can quickly clog normal vacuums, so professional equipment ensures completeness. SmellGREEN® Natural Disinfectant is applied to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and mold.
Furniture Cleaning, Curtain Steaming & Disinfection
All furniture inside and out—including wardrobes, shelves, bed frames, and sofas—is wiped and disinfected with natural cleaners. Curtains and soft furnishings are steam‑sanitized and UV‑treated to destroy dust mites and germs. Research shows high‑temperature steam kills 99.9% of mites and eggs, offering deeper hygiene than standard washing.
Doors, Lights & Window Glass Detailing
Wooden doors, frames, and window glass (inside and outside) are carefully cleaned with specialized agents to remove dust, stains, and paint spots without surface damage. Lighting fixtures are delicately wiped to restore brightness.
Kitchen & Bathroom Cleaning
Kitchen cleaning covers sinks, stovetops, refrigerators, ovens, exhaust fans, and cabinets using safe natural degreasers. Bathrooms are scrubbed for grout, water stains, and mold, with complete cleaning of tubs, toilets, screens, and faucets to eliminate odors and bacteria.
Every project includes client inspection after completion to ensure the highest standards.
Post‑Renovation Air and Formaldehyde Treatment
What Is Excessive Formaldehyde?
Construction materials like plywood, paint, and adhesives emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including formaldehyde. According to the World Health Organization, safe indoor formaldehyde concentration should stay below 0.08 ppm. Newly renovated homes often range between 0.15–0.35 ppm—significantly above safe limits—causing irritation, allergies, and potential cancer risk.
Most Effective Formaldehyde Removal Method
Regular ventilation, air purifiers, and professional removal services offer the best results. Johnson Group provides professional testing and removal to ensure safe move‑in conditions.
For more information, read: “New Home Formaldehyde Removal Guide—Expert‑Approved Methods and Pre‑Move‑In Precautions.”
DIY Cleaning vs. Professional Cleaning (Quick Comparison)
| Consideration | DIY Cleaning | Professional Cleaning |
|---|---|---|
| Renovation Scale | Small or partial renovation | Full home or repainting |
| Ideal For | Budget-conscious, flexible schedule | Families with children, elderly, or sensitive members |
| Aircon & Formaldehyde Solutions | Requires separate providers | One-stop aircon and formaldehyde treatment |
| Risks | May miss high or hidden spots | Thorough and detailed with pro tools |
| Result | Wrong detergents may cause damage or clogs; high areas pose safety risk | Safe, efficient teamwork with proper equipment |
Why Choosing Johnson Group?
70 Years of Cleaning and Pest Control Expertise
Since 1947, Johnson Group has evolved from a pest control specialist into a comprehensive provider of professional cleaning and indoor environmental management services. We understand that post-renovation work requires not only cleaning but also pest risk prevention. That is why we offer pre- and post-renovation termite control services to ensure complete protection and peace of mind before move-in.Professional Equipment and Technology
Our services employ internationally recognized cleaning machines and advanced filtration systems capable of thoroughly removing renovation dust, paint odors, adhesive residue, and stubborn stains. The professional team selects appropriate tools and procedures based on different flooring and surface materials, ensuring a safe, efficient cleaning process that restores your home’s brightness and cleanliness.Natural Cleaning Products
We use natural, non-toxic, and environmentally certified cleaning agents that effectively break down stains and odors without leaving chemical residues. Safe for children, pets, and the elderly, our products deliver a truly healthy and spotless home environment.Transparent Pricing
All quotations clearly list the cleaning scope and service details, with no hidden charges. You may mix and match services according to your specific needs, maintaining full control of your budget with straightforward, all-inclusive pricing.On-site Inspection and Satisfaction Guarantee
After each service, clients are invited to conduct an on-site inspection to ensure every detail meets our standards. Should any adjustments or touch-ups be required, we promise immediate follow-up to deliver complete satisfaction and confidence in our service.
