Blog
Move-out cleaning checklist: leave it clean, get your deposit back
Moving is stressful enough. This room-by-room checklist covers what landlords and buyers usually look at, so nothing is missed on the last day.
Before you start
- Read your lease: it often states the cleaning standard you must meet
- Remove everything: clean only when rooms are completely empty
- Gather supplies: all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, degreaser, disinfectant, sponges, microfiber cloths, a mop and a vacuum
Kitchen
- Wipe cabinets inside and out, and clean drawers and shelves
- Clean the oven, stovetop and range hood
- Empty and clean the refrigerator and freezer, and leave doors slightly open if it will be unplugged
- Wipe the microwave, dishwasher and counters, and scrub the sink and faucet
Bathrooms
- Scrub the tub, shower, tile and grout, and remove soap scum
- Disinfect the toilet inside, outside and around the base
- Clean the vanity, sink, mirrors and cabinet interiors
- Wash the floor, including corners and edges
Bedrooms, living areas and the rest
- Wipe closets, shelves and rods
- Dust baseboards, door frames, vents, ceiling fans and light fixtures
- Clean window sills and tracks, and wipe the glass
- Wipe switches and door handles, and spot-clean marks on the walls
- Vacuum carpets and sweep and mop hard floors last, working toward the exit
Photos and timing
Take dated photos of every room after cleaning, including inside appliances and closets. If a dispute about the deposit comes up, they are your evidence. Start the cleaning one or two days before the keys are due, so you have time to fix anything you missed.
When to hire a cleaning company
Move-out cleaning is long, physical work, usually done in the same days as packing and transport. Many renters and sellers hire a professional team so the home is ready on time. If you want us to handle it, we follow a detailed checklist and can add carpet cleaning in the same visit.