The Complete Move Out Cleaning Checklist You Need

Moving out can be a stressful time, but with the right preparation and a thorough move out cleaning checklist, you can help ensure a smooth transition to your next home. Whether you're a tenant hoping to recover your security deposit or a homeowner preparing to sell, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps for a spotless move out.

Moving home

Why Move Out Cleaning is Important

Before we dive into the move out cleaning checklist, let's discuss why a detailed cleaning is crucial:

Securing Your Deposit: Most landlords require tenants to return the property in the original condition. A proper move out cleaning helps ensure you get your security deposit back.
A Positive Impression: Leaving a clean space sets a good impression for landlords, buyers, or new occupants.
Smoother Transitions: A clean environment helps the next resident settle in quickly and easily.
Avoiding Additional Costs: Neglecting cleaning duties may result in costly cleaning fees deducted from your deposit or closing costs.

Preparing for Move Out Cleaning

Before starting your cleaning, make sure you have the necessary cleaning supplies on hand:

Broom and mop
Vacuum cleaner
Sponges and scrubbing brushes
Microfiber cloths
All-purpose cleaner
Glass cleaner
Disinfectant
Garbage bags
Duster
Stain remover
Toilet brush
Bucket

Pro Tip: Start the cleaning process after all your belongings have been moved out, so you can easily access all surfaces and corners.

Room-By-Room Move Out Cleaning Checklist

1. General Areas (Bedrooms, Living Rooms, Hallways)

Dust and Wipe Down: All surfaces including baseboards, shelves, window sills, and ceiling fans.
Clean Walls: Remove nails, hooks, and use a damp cloth to wipe away any marks or scuffs.
Clean Windows: Wash windows inside and out, including tracks and glass panes.
Vacuum and Mop Floors: Pay extra attention to corners and under furniture spaces. If carpeted, vacuum and consider steam cleaning if necessary.
Closets: Remove all personal items, dust shelves, and wipe down rods and walls.
Light Fixtures and Switches: Wipe clean and replace any burnt-out bulbs.
Doors and Handles: Clean both sides of doors and disinfect handles.
Empty Trash Cans: Remove all trash and ensure bins are cleaned out.

2. Kitchen

The kitchen move out cleaning checklist requires attention to detail due to food residues.

Cabinets and Drawers: Empty completely, then wipe inside and out.
Counters and Backsplash: Scrub to remove stains, crumbs, and grease.
Sink and Faucet: Scrub and polish sinks, remove limescale from faucets, and unclog any drains if necessary.
Appliances:
- Refrigerator: Empty, defrost, clean shelves, drawers, and all surfaces before unplugging.
- Stove and Oven: Remove burner grates and clean thoroughly inside and outside. Don't forget the oven racks and broiler pan.
- Microwave: Wipe inside and out. Heat a bowl of water and lemon to loosen grime.
- Dishwasher: Remove racks and clean inside with a vinegar cycle if possible.
Floor: Sweep and mop under appliances as well as open floor areas.
Trash and Recycling: Empty, clean receptacles, and take out final bags.

3. Bathrooms

Toilet: Scrub inside the bowl, clean seat, lid, tank, base, and behind toilet.
Sink and Countertop: Scrub the basin, polish faucets, and clean all countertop surfaces.
Shower/Tub: Remove soap scum, mildew, and limescale from tiles and doors. Clean showerhead and tap handles.
Mirrors and Medicine Cabinet: Wipe down and remove any leftover items.
Exhaust Fan: Dust and wipe vent covers.
Floors: Sweep and mop, especially around the toilet and under sinks.
Light Switches and Door Handles: Disinfect thoroughly.

4. Laundry Room

Appliance Exteriors: Wipe down washer and dryer surfaces.
Lint Trap: Clean thoroughly to prevent fire risk.
Shelves and Cabinets: Empty and wipe down.
Sink (if applicable): Clean and remove residue.
Floor: Sweep and mop, paying attention to corners.

5. Entryways and Hallways

Doors and Frames: Wipe down and clean handles.
Closet (if present): Empty and clean shelves, rods, and floor.
Floors: Vacuum or mop.

Additional Items for Your Move Out Cleaning List

Air Vents and Filters: Dust and wipe air vents; replace or clean filters throughout the home.
Patios and Balconies: Sweep outdoor spaces, remove cobwebs, and wash off any surfaces as needed.
Garage: Sweep floors, remove all trash and belongings, and clean up any spills or stains.
Light Bulbs: Replace burnt-out bulbs throughout the property.
Smoke Detectors: Test and replace batteries if required.
Remove All Personal Items: Double-check closets, cabinets, and storage areas before leaving.

Tips for a Stress-Free Move Out Cleaning

Leave Time for Repairs: Address minor damages like nail holes or scuff marks ahead of your cleaning day.
Use the Top to Bottom Approach: Clean higher surfaces first (e.g., shelves, fan blades) so debris falls to surfaces yet to be cleaned.
Enlist Help: Divide and conquer tasks among family members or consider hiring professional move out cleaning services for efficiency.
Check Your Lease: Match your cleaning to your lease agreement's requirements for a successful inspection.
Take Photos: After cleaning, take detailed photos to document the property's condition.

Commonly Missed Spots in Move Out Cleaning

Window Tracks and Sills: Dirt and dust often get lodged here but are commonly overlooked.
Behind and Under Appliances: Don't forget to move large appliances (where possible) to sweep and mop underneath.
Ceiling Fans and Light Fixtures: These collect dust and require careful attention.
Baseboards: Easy to forget, but essential for a truly clean room.
Closet Shelves: Check for sticky residues or dust.
Shower Curtain or Doors: Replace or thoroughly clean to avoid mold and mildew.

Benefits of Using a Move Out Cleaning Checklist

Staying organized and thorough with your move out cleaning helps you:

Save time: An organized approach prevents backtracking or missing areas.
Reduce stress: Knowing what needs to be done and checking items off as you go makes cleaning less overwhelming.
Increase chances of deposit return: Landlords are more likely to return your deposit when the property is left in excellent condition.
Facilitate a smooth handover: A clean space is a welcoming gesture for its next occupants.

Printable Move Out Cleaning Checklist

For your convenience, here is a simplified move out cleaning list you can print and check off:

All rooms: Dust, vacuum/mop floors, clean windows and sills, wipe light switches and door handles, check walls for marks
Kitchen: Clean appliances, sinks, countertops, cabinets (inside/out)
Bathrooms: Scrub toilet, sink, tub/shower, mirrors, cabinets
Laundry: Clean washer/dryer, shelves, floor
Extra: Air vents, patios, garage, smoke detectors
Remove all personal items and trash

When to Hire Professional Move Out Cleaning Services?

Sometimes, your move out cleaning tasks may feel overwhelming. While a detailed checklist can help, there are situations where hiring a professional cleaning service is worthwhile:

Lack of time due to a busy relocation schedule or overlapping leases
Large properties that are difficult to clean alone
Previous deep cleaning neglect that requires heavy-duty attention
End of tenancy requirements that request professional cleaning as proof

Tip: Rates for move out cleaning vary by property size and location, so always request a quote and review what's included before booking a cleaning service.

Moving home

Move Out Cleaning Checklist FAQs

Q: How long does move out cleaning take?

A full move out clean can take from 4 to 12 hours, depending on the size of the property and its initial cleanliness. Enlisting help or hiring professionals can reduce this significantly.

Q: Can I do move out cleaning myself?

Yes, with the right cleaning checklist and supplies, most people can handle their own move out cleaning and save money. Just make sure to be thorough and tackle all areas.

Q: What about carpet cleaning?

Some landlords and buyers expect carpet cleaning as part of the move out process. Renting a carpet cleaner or hiring professionals can help remove stains and odors.

Q: What proof should I provide after cleaning?

Take dated photos or videos as documentation, and save any cleaning receipts if using a professional service. Provide this to your landlord or property manager if questions arise.

Final Thoughts

Taking the time to follow a detailed move out cleaning checklist is one of the best ways to secure your deposit, leave on good terms, and make saying goodbye to your old home a little easier. Whether you DIY your move out cleaning or hire professionals, using this comprehensive guide ensures you won't miss a single detail.

Ready to make your move more efficient? Download, print, or bookmark this checklist and approach your move out cleaning with confidence!

Don't forget: Clean room by room, pay attention to the details, and always do a final walk-through before returning your keys. An organized and clean exit sets you up for a fresh start in your new home!