Move-Out Cleaning Checklist: Don’t Lose Your Deposit

Moving out is a significant endeavor and ensuring your space is spotless is crucial for a smooth transition and the return of your security deposit. This comprehensive move-out cleaning checklist will guide you through each step, ensuring you leave your former residence in pristine condition.

1. Preliminary Preparation:

Gather Cleaning Supplies:

• Before you start cleaning, assemble all necessary cleaning supplies. This includes cleaning agents, scrub brushes, microfiber cloths, trash bags , a vacuum cleaner and any specialized products for specific surfaces.

Declutter and Remove Personal Items:

• Begin by decluttering your living spaces. Remove personal items, ensuring all cabinets, closets, and drawers are empty.

Inspect for Damages:

• Conduct a thorough inspection of the property to identify any damages. Take note of anything that may affect your security deposit.

2. General Cleaning Tasks:

Dust Surfaces:

• Dust all surfaces, including shelves, baseboards, light fixtures, and ceiling fans.

Wipe Down Surfaces:

• Clean countertops, tables, and other surfaces with appropriate cleaning agents. Pay special attention to high-touch areas like doorknobs and light switches.

Vacuum and Sweep Floors:

• Vacuum carpets and rugs, and sweep or mop hard floors. Clean corners and edges thoroughly.

Clean Windows:

• Wipe down windows, sills, and tracks. Remove any dirt or grime for a clear view.

Empty and Clean Cabinets and Drawers:

• Empty cabinets and drawers, and wipe down both the interior and exterior. Remove any lingering crumbs or spills.

Clean Walls and Baseboards:

• Spot clean walls for any marks or stains. Wipe down baseboards to remove dust and dirt.

Remove Cobwebs:

• Inspect corners and ceilings for cobwebs. Use a duster or broom to remove them.

3. Kitchen Cleaning:

Clean Appliances:

• Wipe down the exterior of all kitchen appliances, including the refrigerator, oven, microwave, and dishwasher.

Degrease Kitchen Surfaces:

• Remove any built-up grease on kitchen surfaces, especially near the stove and range hood.

Clean Sink and Faucet:

• Scrub the sink and polish faucets. Address any stains or mineral deposits.

Empty and Clean Refrigerator:

• Empty the refrigerator and clean both the interior and exterior. Defrost if necessary.

Clean Oven and Stovetop:

• Clean the oven thoroughly, including the stovetop, burners, and any removable parts.

Check and Clean Cabinets:

• Inspect and clean the inside of cabinets, paying attention to shelves and corners.

Clean and Disinfect Trash Bins:

• Clean and disinfect all trash bins, including those in the kitchen and bathrooms.

4. Bathroom Cleaning:

Scrub and Sanitize Surfaces:

• Scrub bathroom surfaces, including sinks, countertops, and bathroom fixtures. Disinfect high-touch areas like toilet flush handles.

Clean Shower and Tub:

• Clean and disinfect the shower and bathtub, addressing grout, tiles, and shower curtains.

Clean Toilet:

• Thoroughly clean and disinfect the toilet, including the bowl, seat, and exterior.

Wipe Down Medicine Cabinet and Vanity:

• Empty and clean the medicine cabinet and vanity. Wipe down shelves and surfaces.

Replace Shower Curtain and Liner:

• If applicable, replace the shower curtain and liner. Launder or replace any fabric shower curtains.

Clean Mirrors:

• Clean mirrors in the bathroom, ensuring a streak-free finish.

5. Bedroom and Living Spaces:

Vacuum Carpets and Rugs:

• Thoroughly vacuum carpets and rugs, paying attention to edges and under furniture.

Dust and Wipe Furniture:

• Dust and wipe down all furniture, including nightstands, dressers, and shelves.

Clean Upholstery:

• If applicable, clean upholstery and fabric surfaces. Address any stains or spills.

Check and Clean Closet:

• Empty and clean the closet, including shelves and hanging rods. Vacuum or sweep the closet floor.

Clean Fireplace:

• If applicable, clean the fireplace and remove any ashes or debris.

6. Final Touches:

Air Fresheners:

• Place air fresheners or open windows to ensure a fresh and clean scent throughout the property.

Check Lighting:

• Replace any burnt-out light bulbs and ensure all lighting fixtures are working correctly.

Inspect for Left-Behind Items:

• Double-check all rooms and storage spaces for any items left behind. Dispose of or donate items that you do not want to keep.

Return Keys and Remotes:

• Ensure all keys, access cards, and remote controls are returned to the landlord or designated party.

7. Exterior and Outdoor Areas:

Sweep Porch or Patio:

• Sweep outdoor areas, including porches, patios, and balconies. Remove any debris or leaves.

Clean and Organize Garage:

• If applicable, clean and organize the garage. Sweep the floor and remove any items that don’t belong.

Dispose of Bulk Items:

• Arrange for the disposal of any large or bulk items that cannot be left behind.

Trim and Mow the Lawn:

• If responsible for outdoor maintenance, trim any overgrown vegetation and mow the lawn.

8. Documentation:

Photograph the Cleaned Space:

• Take photographs of the cleaned space for your records. This can serve as evidence of the condition you left the property in.

Communicate With the Landlord:

• Inform the landlord or property manager once the cleaning is complete. Schedule a walkthrough if required.

Submit Cleaning Documentation:

• If there is a move-out cleaning checklist provided by the landlord or property manager, submit your completed checklist along with any documentation.

By following this comprehensive move-out cleaning checklist, you’ll not only leave your space immaculate but also ensure a smooth and positive transition. This attention to detail will contribute to a positive relationship with your landlord and potentially facilitate the return of your security deposit.