Essential Things to Clean Before You Move Out

Moving out of a home, apartment, or rental property is both an exciting and stressful experience. While packing up your belongings is a big part of the process, cleaning before moving out is just as essential. Not only does this help you get your security deposit back, but it also ensures you leave the property in excellent condition for the next occupant. In this comprehensive guide, we'll highlight the key areas to focus on when cleaning before a move and share expert tips to make your move-out cleaning thorough and efficient.

Why Thorough Move-Out Cleaning Matters

• Securing your deposit: Most lease agreements require tenants to return the property in the same condition as when they moved in, minus normal wear and tear.
• Good reputation: Leaving the property clean reflects well on you as a responsible tenant or homeowner.
• Smoother transitions: A clean space is more welcoming for new occupants and is often required by landlords or property management companies.
• Skipping last-minute fees: Neglecting essential cleaning tasks can result in deductions from your deposit or added cleaning charges.

Ready to get started? Below you'll find the complete checklist of things you absolutely need to clean before you move out.

Comprehensive Checklist of Essential Things to Clean Before Moving Out

1. Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most used and scrutinized areas in any property. Be sure to:

• Empty and clean the refrigerator: Remove all food. Defrost if needed. Wipe down shelves, drawers, and inner walls. Don't forget the top and behind the fridge!
• Scrub the oven and stovetop: Remove racks and clean thoroughly. Use oven cleaner for stubborn grease. Don't forget knobs and burners.
• Microwave: Clean inside and outside, paying special attention to lingering food splatters.
• Dishwasher: Run a cleaning cycle. Wipe the door gasket and edges.
• Sink and faucets: Disinfect and remove stains. Clean out garbage disposal, if present.
• Cabinets and drawers: Empty all contents, then wipe inside, outside, and handles.
• Counters and backsplashes: Remove stains, crumbs, and grease.
• Floors: Sweep and mop, including under appliances.

2. Bathrooms

Bathrooms require a deep cleaning before you move out. Focus on:

• Toilet: Scrub thoroughly, including under the rim and around the base.
• Sink and countertop: Remove soap scum, toothpaste, and water spots.
• Bathtub and shower: Use a descaler to remove hard water stains. Clean grout and tile.
• Mirrors: Wipe down for a streak-free finish.
• Cabinets and drawers: Empty, then wipe inside and out.
• Floors: Mop and pay attention to corners.
• Faucets and fixtures: Polish for a sparkling look.

3. Bedrooms

When preparing to move out, bedrooms are easy to overlook. Don't forget to:

• Closets: Empty, vacuum, and wipe down shelves and rods.
• Walls: Remove any posters, stickers, or hooks. Wipe stains and patch holes if required.
• Carpets: Vacuum thoroughly. Consider professional carpet cleaning for stains or dirt buildup.
• Floors: Sweep and mop if not carpeted.
• Doors and baseboards: Dust and wipe down.
• Windows and sills: Clean glass and dust off sills and tracks.

4. Living Areas (Living Room, Dining Room)

Common areas leave a lasting impression on landlords and new residents. Here's what you should clean:

• Walls and baseboards: Remove marks and dust thoroughly.
• Floors: Vacuum carpets and rugs. Sweep and mop hard surfaces.
• Windows and blinds: Wash glass, wipe down sills, and dust blinds or shutters.
• Light fixtures and fans: Dust light fixtures, ceiling fans, and air vents.
• Fireplace: Clean out ashes and wipe down the surround if you have one.
• Doors and handles: Disinfect and remove any fingerprints.

5. Entryways and Hallways

• Floors: Sweep and mop thoroughly.
• Closets: Empty and wipe shelving and rods.
• Walls and corners: Dust and clean any scuff marks.
• Doors and trim: Pay attention to high-touch areas like doorknobs.

6. Utility Spaces and Laundry Room

Often forgotten, utility areas also require attention:

• Washing machine: Run a cleaning cycle and wipe the inside and out.
• Dryer: Empty lint trap and wipe down exterior.
• Shelves and cabinets: Wipe any surfaces and remove remaining items.
• Sink: Clean out basins and faucets.
• Floors: Sweep and mop thoroughly.

7. Windows, Blinds, and Curtains

Ensuring windows and window coverings are clean can transform the look of your property:

• Windows: Wash windows inside and out where possible for a streak-free shine.
• Blinds/Shutters: Dust and wipe each slat. For fabric shades, vacuum on low suction.
• Curtains: Launder or dry-clean if required and replace them neatly.

8. Floors Throughout the Home

• Carpets: Vacuum and steam-clean if necessary.
• Wood or laminate: Sweep and mop, using an appropriate cleaner.
• Tile: Mop, paying close attention to grout lines.
• Staircases: Vacuum or wipe down banisters and rails.

9. Walls, Baseboards, and Doors

For a truly sparkling property, don't skip these details:

• Walls: Remove scuffs, marks, and spot clean dirty areas.
• Baseboards: Dust thoroughly and wipe down with a damp cloth.
• Doors and trim: Clean fingerprints and smudges, especially near handles.

10. Exterior Areas (If Applicable)

• Balkonies and patios: Sweep, wipe railings, and remove debris.
• Garages: Remove all personal belongings, sweep, and check for oil stains.
• Yard: Mow the lawn, tidy up garden beds, and remove trash if required in your rental agreement.
• Exterior doors: Clean and check for cobwebs or dirt around the entrance.

Frequently Asked Questions for Moving Out Cleaning

Do I need to clean if I've hired professional movers?

Absolutely. While movers may help with packing, move-out cleaning is usually your responsibility unless you specifically hire a cleaning service. Most landlords expect renters to leave the property in good, clean condition regardless of movers.

Should I patch holes in the walls?

Many lease agreements require tenants to repair holes or marks caused by nails or wall mounts. Use putty and paint to restore the wall. However, normal wear and tear is typically exempt.

How can I ensure I don't miss anything during my move-out cleaning?

Using a comprehensive move-out cleaning checklist is the best way to avoid missing spots. Walk through each room after cleaning and compare it to your checklist.

Can I use natural cleaning solutions?

Yes! Vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice are great for many cleaning tasks. However, always check that your chosen solution is safe for each surface type to avoid damage.

Is professional cleaning required to get my deposit back?

Not always, but some landlords or property management companies may require a receipt for a professional cleaning service. Check your rental agreement carefully before moving out.

Expert Tips for Efficient Move-Out Cleaning

• Start early: Begin cleaning as you pack to avoid overwhelming yourself at the end.
• Stock up on supplies: Have all-purpose cleaners, sponges, microfiber cloths, scrub brushes, garbage bags, and floor cleaner on hand before starting.
• Work from top to bottom: Clean higher surfaces first (shelves, cabinets), then move down to floors.
• Don't forget vents and filters: Dust air vents and replace HVAC filters if required.
• Check the details: Small spots like light switches, outlet plates, and behind doors can harbor grime that's easily overlooked.
• Dispose of garbage properly: Make sure all trash and unwanted items are removed from the property.
• Take photos: After cleaning, take photos of each room for your records - this is helpful for protecting your deposit.

Room-by-Room Cleaning Guide Before Moving Out

Kitchen Deep Cleaning Checklist

• Defrost and wipe out fridge and freezer
• Clean oven, stovetop, and extractors
• Empty and sanitize all cabinets
• Wipe counters and backsplash
• Disinfect sink and remove limescale
• Mop the floor after moving appliances, if possible

Bathroom Deep Cleaning Checklist

• Scrub shower, bathtub, and tiles with mold remover if needed
• Disinfect toilet, sink, and all fixtures
• Polish chrome and mirrors
• Mop floors and disinfect trash can area

Living Areas and Bedroom Cleaning Checklist

• Dust all surfaces, including shelves, mantels, and skirting boards
• Clean under and behind furniture if not already moved out
• Vacuum all carpets and rugs, or mop hard floors
• Clean windows, mirrors, and glass doors

Hallways, Entryways, and Outdoor Areas

• Remove cobwebs from corners and ceilings
• Sweep or vacuum stairways and entry mats
• Wipe switches, door handles, and banisters

Final Steps Before Handing Over the Keys

1. Walk through each room: Ensure nothing is left behind and every area is cleaned and empty.
2. Check your lease agreement: Review any specific cleaning requirements or check-out procedures outlined by your landlord.
3. Document your work: Take photos of the clean property for your records.
4. Return all keys, fobs, and remotes: This step is often overlooked but vital for completing your move-out.

Conclusion: The Importance of Move-Out Cleaning

Thorough move-out cleaning benefits everyone. Not only do you maximize your chances of getting your full security deposit back, but you also uphold your reputation as a conscientious renter or homeowner. Providing a spotless property for the next resident ensures a positive transition and minimizes disputes with your landlord or buyer.

In summary, the essential things to clean before you move out include all frequently used areas such as the kitchen, bathrooms, bedrooms, living spaces, and utility zones, with detailed attention to walls, floors, and fixtures. By following this room-by-room guide and comprehensive checklist, you'll have peace of mind knowing you left your former space in the best possible condition.

Are you preparing for your next big move? Start your move-out cleaning as early as possible, stay organized, and don't hesitate to hire professional help if you're pressed for time. Your future self--and your landlord--will thank you!