The Ultimate Move-Out Cleaning Checklist For Stress-Free Moving

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Moving out is one major decision you have to make when you think you need a better location for work or you’re settling down, or you’re entering university. This can be both invigorating and stressful. Whatever your reason for moving out, house cleaning is the last big task you have to deal with. It is very important to clean up to receive your full deposit fee. 

Before doing any cleaning, you must review your rental agreement to make sure you’ll do it right. You have two options for your move-out cleaning, it’s either hires a move-out cleaning service or you’ll do it yourself. If you opt to do the latter, you’ll need a move-out cleaning checklist to get started. 

One of the efficient techniques for cleaning your apartment is to work your way up from top to bottom. Or you start cleaning one single room. Check out below for your ultimate move-out cleaning guide.

For all rooms

  • If stated in the agreement, wipe down the walls and paint them.
  • Clean and dust all ledges and ceiling fixtures
  • Vacuum and mop the floor
  • Check for stains, and if necessary have it cleaned professionally.
  • Clean filters in the air conditioner 

Bedroom

Clean the following:

  • Closet fronts and insides
  • Mirrors
  • Windows and window tracks
  • Marks on walls
  • Drawers
  • Doors 
  • Doorknobs
  • Window coverings
  • Blinds

Others:

  • Wipe all light switches
  • Vacuum and mop all hard surface floors
  • Wash linens and pillowcases
  • Empty the garbage bins

Living Area

This is considered a high-traffic room. Therefore, it needs extra care. 

Clean the following:

  • Closet fronts and insides
  • Mirrors
  • Windows and window tracks
  • Marks on walls
  • Baseboards
  • Doors 
  • Doorknobs
  • Door Frames 

Others:

  • Wipe all light switches
  • Vacuum and mop all hard surface floors
  • Vacuum area rugs and carpet
  • Empty the garbage bins

Kitchen

When you clean your kitchen, you’ll likely run into tough messes. It is advisable to apply cleaning solutions to tough messes such as splatters, and old stains. 

Clean the following:

  • Sink
  • Faucet
  • Cabinets Interiors and exteriors
  • Areas behind the appliances
  • Countertops
  • Shelves
  • Marks on walls
  • All appliances
  • Extractor hood

Wash the following:

  • Dishes
  • Backsplash
  • Dishwasher

Others:

  • Garbage should be emptied
  • The floor should be washed and vacuumed

Bathroom

The bathroom is the last place you should clean as you’ll need it up to the day you’ll move out. 

Clean the following:

  • Mirrors
  • Cabinet interiors and exteriors
  • Marks on walls
  • Baseboards
  • Drawers and vanity
  • Window Sills and window tracks
  • Extractor hood

Clean and sanitize the following:

  • Sink 
  • Toilet
  • Bathtub
  • Shower walls
  • Glass doors
  • Floor tiles

Wipe the following: 

  • Doors
  • Doorknobs
  • Door Frames
  • Light switches

Others:

  • The floor should be washed and vacuumed
  • Garbage should be emptied

Garage

This is one of the neglected areas for regular cleaning, therefore, you have to spend more time here. 

  • Clean walls and floors
  • Scrub floors for stains
  • Remove nails and screws out

Aside from knowing which part of the house/apartment needs to be spotlessly clean, you should also plan the different cleaning supplies you’ll need. Check all the parts of your house for stains, and other tough messes. Another thing to check is the type of surfaces you’ll be cleaning such as glass, floors, and fixtures. With this in mind, you’ll be able to get the right house cleaning products before you start. 

Here is a list of cleaning materials you’ll need:

  • Floor cleaner
  • Microfiber cleaning cloths
  • Garbage bags
  • Gloves for protection
  • Brushes
  • Mop
  • Squeegee
  • Concentrated cleaning solutions

Since you’ll be cleaning a lot, that means you’ll be exposed to many chemicals. To lessen the risk of harmful chemicals, it is recommended to use natural cleaning products and supplies. Plan ahead which of these natural cleaners you could use that will help you clean your home and at the same time will be good for your health. 

When to hire move-out house cleaning?

The above checklist may be very helpful for those who have ample time to clean their apartment or house. However, if you have limited time to do so or cleaning and moving out are overwhelming, the best option for you is to hire apartment cleaning services to move out. They are professionally trained and will guarantee you quality, speed, and most importantly performance.

Before making a call or securing your preferred date for a house cleaning to move out, make sure you have reviewed your apartment agreement and listed the important things to take note of. So that as soon as you talk to them, you can directly point out the important key points when they start cleaning. This way, it can save their time and minimize your cost for a house move-out cleaning.  

Further, make sure to book them in advance especially if you’re planning to move out during Summer since this is when move-in and move-out cleaning services are usually fully booked. 

The key to having a stress-free moving out is to plan. Plan ahead what part of the house you have to start cleaning, (ensure a copy of the checklist), what cleaning products or supplies to use, and if you are planning to hire an apartment move-out cleaning services arrange your schedule and your booking ahead. 

Find a move-out cleaning service near you?

Moving to another house or apartment is challenging. You’d have to think of a lot of things, right? Cleaning your rental space before moving out must be top of mind as well. If you want to get your security deposit, then you need to do this.

In case you need help with move-out cleaning, we are here for you. Next Day Cleaning is your trusted local cleaning company to call for your move-out cleaning needs. We have trained and bonded professionals who’ll take care of your cleaning requirements. Should you need a free estimate, call us at 202-883-4003 or 703-677-1050.

You can also reach us online here

Leave the work to professionals!

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“Very superior work . Arrived on time and cleaned my home extremely well. Two hard working women for three hours cleaned my home very well. I would highly recommend this cleaning service.”

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Picture of Omer Faruk Cevikol<br/><span id="position">Owner</span>
Omer Faruk Cevikol
Owner

Omer Faruk Cevikol is the owner of Next Day Cleaning. He aims to deliver the best cleaning services along with his dedicated team and the author of Next Day Cleaning blog. You can find Omer on LinkedIn and Instagram.

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