Moving out is not just about packing your belongings; it’s about leaving a place in the best condition possible.
Think about it—whether you’re a tenant trying to get your security deposit back or a homeowner preparing to sell, one of the most important steps in the moving process is to make sure the space you’re leaving behind is clean.
In fact, studies show that a clean home can increase its sale price by up to 5%.
Now, imagine this: You've just moved out of your apartment or house and are getting ready to leave. But before you get that check in your hand or list your house on the market, there's one final hurdle—cleaning.
It may seem like a small task compared to the chaos of packing, but the truth is that cleaning your space can have a major impact.
69% of renters report that the cleanliness of their apartment directly impacts the amount of their security deposit returned.
It’s the kind of thing that sets the tone for your departure, so make sure you leave on a positive note.
Now, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone.
According to a survey, 45% of people feel stressed about cleaning when moving out.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
By following this well-organized move out cleaning checklist, you’ll know exactly what to do, step by step.
Why Move-Out Cleaning is Essential
We all know moving can be stressful, but cleaning your space as you move out is integral for a smooth transition.
Many people neglect cleaning until the very last minute, but a good move-out cleaning helps maintain good relations with your landlord and can boost your chances of a fast home sale.
According to a study, homes with sparkling kitchens and clean bathrooms tend to sell faster and for higher prices than their dirtier counterparts.
Moreover, for renters, getting your full security deposit back hinges on how well you clean.
Many landlords state that cleanliness is one of the most important factors in determining whether to refund a deposit.
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Apartment Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
Cleaning an apartment requires a detailed approach.
Here’s a breakdown of what needs to be done:
Kitchen:
- Wipe down all surfaces, including countertops, cabinets, and backsplashes.
- Clean the refrigerator inside and out—don't forget the shelves and drawers!
- Scrub the oven, stovetop, and microwave to remove grease and grime.
- Clean the dishwasher, removing any food debris and disinfecting it.
- Sweep and mop the floor.
Bathroom:
- Scrub the toilet, sink, and shower or bathtub to remove soap scum and stains.
- Clean mirrors and light fixtures for a sparkling finish.
- Wipe down all surfaces, including countertops, shelves, and cabinets.
- Sweep and mop the floor to ensure a polished look.
Living Room and Bedrooms:
- Dust all surfaces, including baseboards, window sills, and light fixtures.
- Clean any carpets or upholstery, either by vacuuming or hiring a professional carpet cleaning service.
- Wipe down windows and clean the glass to let natural light shine through.
- If you have hardwood floors, sweep and mop them thoroughly.
Other Areas:
- Don’t forget to clean hallways, entryways, and closets.
- Ensure that any additional appliances, like laundry machines, are cleaned.
- Check your walls and touch up any scuff marks or damage.
Move-Out House Cleaning
For those moving out of a house, the cleaning process involves more areas and requires more attention to detail than apartment cleaning.
A move out house cleaning checklist should include:
Attic and Basement:
- Dust and remove any cobwebs from corners and ceilings.
- Sweep or vacuum the floors and remove any trash.
- Check for any lingering odors and remove them.
Garage:
- Sweep out any dirt or debris.
- Remove any oil stains from the garage floor.
- Clean any shelving or storage units that you leave behind.
Exterior:
- Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage.
- Power wash driveways, walkways, and patios for a fresh look.
- Remove any leaves, dirt, or debris from outdoor spaces.
- Clean windows and check for any exterior maintenance issues that need to be addressed.
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Move-Out Cleaning Services
If the idea of cleaning an entire home sounds overwhelming, you might want to consider move out cleaning services.
Professional cleaners have the expertise and equipment to tackle the job quickly and efficiently.
They offer deep cleaning that targets even the hardest-to-reach areas, ensuring your space is spotless.
While hiring a cleaning company may seem like an extra expense, the convenience it offers can be well worth it.
In fact, a survey found that 56% of people prefer hiring professionals to clean their move-out property instead of doing it themselves.
End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist
If you're renting, there are specific items to keep in mind.
The end of tenancy cleaning checklist should focus on making the property as close to move-in condition as possible.
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Key Areas to Focus On:
- Remove all personal items and trash.
- Clean all appliances and make sure they are in working order.
- Fix any damage caused during your stay.
- Follow the checklist for each room (as mentioned above for apartments).
Move-Out Cleaning Tips
Before you get into cleaning, here are some pro tips to help make the job easier and more efficient:
Start Early: Give yourself ample time to clean before your move-out date. Starting a few days early can help avoid the rush.
Declutter First: Go through all your belongings and get rid of what you don’t need before you start cleaning.
Use Quality Products: Good cleaning products, such as a multi-surface cleaner and a powerful vacuum, will make your cleaning more efficient.
Don’t Forget the Details: Pay attention to the small areas—door handles, light switches, and vents—that are often overlooked during routine cleaning.
Move-Out Cleaning Checklist for Tenants
As a tenant, it’s crucial to:
- Take Photos: Document the condition of the property before and after cleaning to ensure you have proof of your efforts.
- Communicate with Your Landlord: Let your landlord know if any damages or issues arise during your move-out cleaning.
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Move-Out Cleaning Checklist for Landlords
Landlords can benefit from a thorough move-out cleaning as well:
Inspect Thoroughly
When a tenant moves out, make sure you do a careful walk-through of the entire property. Check every room, closet, and hidden spot. You’ll want to be sure everything has been cleaned properly, and don’t forget to look for any damage.
Set Clear Expectations Beforehand
It's a good idea to give your tenants a move-out cleaning checklist ahead of time. That way, they’ll know exactly what needs to be done. Include specifics like wiping down surfaces, cleaning appliances, and removing all personal items.
Check for Damages and Maintenance Needs
As you inspect, look for any damages that might require repairs or maintenance. Check things like walls, floors, and fixtures. If you find any issues, take note of them, as they might affect the security deposit.
Review the Lease Agreement for Cleaning Clauses
Take a quick look at the lease agreement to refresh your memory on any cleaning clauses. Some leases have specific cleaning requirements, like professional cleaning or details about what’s considered acceptable.
Provide Feedback to Tenants
After the inspection, give your tenants feedback. If they did a great job, let them know! If there were areas that didn’t meet expectations, explain what needed more attention and why.
How Much Does a Move-Out Cleaning Cost?
If you are thinking about hiring professional cleaners for your move-out, you're probably wondering how much it will cost.
Let's break it down together so you can get a good understanding of what you're likely to pay and what exactly goes into the price.
Basics of Move-Out Cleaning Costs
Typically, the cost of move-out cleaning varies based on factors such as:
- The size of the property (apartment, house, etc.)
- The condition of the property (clean or needing deep cleaning)
- The region or city you’re in
- The cleaning company you choose (do they charge hourly rates or flat fees?)
- Special requests (like carpet cleaning or appliance cleaning)
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Average Move-Out Cleaning Cost
Here’s a general idea of what you can expect based on property size and condition:
- Studio/1-Bedroom Apartment: $150–$250
- 2-Bedroom Apartment: $200–$350
- 3-Bedroom House: $300–$500
- 4-Bedroom House: $400–$600
- Larger Homes or Deep Cleaning: $600 and up
As you can see, the larger the property and the more work involved, the higher the cost.
Of course, location plays a big role.
Cities like New York or San Francisco might see prices at the higher end of the spectrum, while smaller towns might see rates on the lower end.
What’s Included in the Cost
A professional move-out cleaning usually covers a few basic categories.
But what if you need extra services?
Let’s go over what’s included and what might cost extra.
| Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Kitchen Cleaning (Countertops, appliances, sink) | $40–$75 |
| Bathroom Cleaning (Toilet, tub, sink) | $30–$60 |
| General Surface Dusting (Baseboards, light fixtures) | $50–$100 |
| Floor Sweeping and Mopping (Living room, bedrooms, hallways) | $50–$100 |
| Windows (Interior and exterior) | $60–$100 |
| Emptying Trash and Recycling | $20–$40 |
| Oven and Refrigerator Cleaning (Inside) | $40–$70 |
| Vacuuming Carpets or Cleaning Rugs | $40–$80 |
Additional Services that Might Cost Extra
There are times when you’ll need more than just the standard cleaning.
These services will usually come at an extra charge, so let’s take a look:
| Additional Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Carpet or Upholstery Cleaning | $100–$250 |
| Deep Cleaning (e.g., wall washing, extreme grime) | $150–$400 |
| Pet Odor Removal | $50–$150 |
| Cleaning of Outdoor Spaces (Decks, patios) | $50–$150 |
| Move-Out Cleaning for a Large House or Estate | $600+ |
Hourly vs. Flat Rate: What’s the Difference?
Here’s something else to keep in mind: Some cleaning companies charge by the hour, while others provide a flat rate.
Hourly rates typically range from $25–$75 per hour, depending on location and experience. An hourly rate might be more economical if the space is smaller and in good condition.
On the other hand, flat rates provide the benefit of knowing exactly what you’ll be paying upfront, regardless of how long the job takes.
How to Save Money on Move-Out Cleaning
If you’re looking to save a bit of cash, here are a few things you can do:
Do Some of the Cleaning Yourself: Handling lighter tasks like dusting and wiping down surfaces can reduce the time needed for professionals to clean, which could lower your costs.
Book in Advance: If you book well ahead of time, you may be able to snag discounts or lower rates. Last-minute bookings tend to be more expensive.
Choose a Smaller Package: If you're moving out of a relatively clean space, you can often request a smaller package that focuses only on the most important cleaning tasks.
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