Ensure a thorough deep cleaning of rental properties by focusing on kitchens, bathrooms, floors, and windows before moving out for a smooth transition.
Getting your security deposit back starts with a thorough move-out cleaning. This guide covers every detail landlords check, plus pro tips most tenants miss. Follow these steps to leave your rental spotless.
Complete Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
1. Wall Repairs and Painting
Remove all nails, hooks, and anchors. Use spackle to fill holes, then sand smooth. For painted walls, touch up with original paint. If you changed wall colors, repaint with the landlord-approved neutral shade. Tip: Cut a small paint sample from behind an outlet cover to color match at the store.
2. Deep Clean All Surfaces
Start high and work downward:
- Ceiling fans: Use an extendable duster with microfiber cover
- Light fixtures: Remove covers and wash with all-purpose cleaner
- Baseboards: Wipe with damp cloth and mild detergent
- Doors and frames: Clean both sides, including hardware
3. Kitchen Deep Clean
Appliances
- Oven: Use non-toxic oven cleaner and scrub baked-on residue
- Refrigerator: Remove shelves, clean with baking soda solution
- Dishwasher: Run empty cycle with vinegar
Cabinets and Countertops
Empty all cabinets. Remove shelf liners. Wipe interiors with degreaser for kitchen cabinets. Clean exterior surfaces including handles.
4. Bathroom Sanitization
Focus on these often-missed areas:
| Area | Cleaning Method |
|---|---|
| Shower head | Soak in vinegar solution to remove mineral deposits |
| Grout lines | Scrub with baking soda paste and toothbrush |
| Behind toilet | Disinfect with antibacterial spray |
5. Floor Care
Different floor types need specific care:
- Hardwood: Use hardwood floor vacuum followed by damp mop
- Tile: Steam clean grout lines for deep sanitization
- Carpet: Professional steam cleaning recommended
Most Overlooked Cleaning Areas
Tenants often miss these critical spots:
- Inside window tracks (use old toothbrush)
- Under appliance drip pans
- Closet shelves and corners
- HVAC vents and filters
- Light switch plates
Professional vs. DIY Cleaning
Consider hiring professionals if:
- You have limited time before move-out
- The rental has extensive carpeting
- Appliances need deep degreasing
- You want documentation for deposit disputes
Average costs range from $200-$500 depending on property size, according to industry sources.
Final Walkthrough Preparation
Before the landlord inspection:
- Turn on all lights to check bulbs
- Test all appliances
- Open and close all windows
- Flush all toilets
- Run all faucets
Bring cleaning supplies for last-minute touch-ups during the walkthrough. A moving expert recommends doing a “white glove test” – if you can wipe a white glove across surfaces without visible dirt, you’re ready.