Your Essential Move-Out Cleaning Checklist

Moving out comes with a long to-do list. Once you’ve packed everything up, you still need to clean – at least, if you want a shot at getting your security deposit back and you don’t want to burn a bridge with your landlord. The cleaner you leave your home, the more likely that you’ll get your money back. We’ve put together a checklist of everything you need to clean your rental before you move out.

How to get your cleaning started

Tackling a large space can feel overwhelming, but the way you start off can set the tone for your whole process. Focus on the most visible areas to create an immediate impact. This could be the living room, hallway, or any space that you frequently see. 

Your rental agreement might specify the standard for cleanliness upon moving out, or if not, you could ask your landlord for specifics on what they look for when inspecting a rental unit.

Also, think about asking your roommates, friends, or family for help. Delegating tasks can significantly reduce the workload, and maybe make the whole experience more fun. Communication is key here, so discuss the cleaning plan and set clear expectations for each person’s responsibilities.

Pro tip: If you’re short on time or can’t physically clean your rental, look into hiring a cleaning service. If you do, explain what exactly you want cleaned.

The supplies you’ll need

Before you dive into scrubbing and sweeping, gather your cleaning supplies to avoid mid-cleaning interruptions and keep your momentum going. These tools will help you tackle dust, grime, pet hair, and any other mess, large or small.

• Sponges
• Rags
• Microfiber cloths
• Squeegee
• Duster
• Extendable duster pole
• Rubber gloves
• Bucket
• Mop
• Broom or vacuum
• Multi-surface cleaner (good for glass and countertops)
• Vinegar and baking soda
• Floor-cleaning solution
• Carpet cleaner
• Degreaser
• Disinfectant cleaner
• Heavy-duty scrub brushes
• Trash can
• Trash bags
• Recycling bins

A multi-surface cleaner can handle a variety of tasks, from wiping down countertops to cleaning floors. If you prefer eco-friendly options, consider using vinegar and baking soda instead. Microfiber cloths are great for achieving streak-free glass and mirrors. And having trash bags in every room can help you avoid clutter as you work, making the whole cleaning process smoother.

Pro tip: To remove tough stains, rent a carpet cleaner from your local home improvement store. You can buy carpet shampoo there, too.

How to clean your bedroom(s) and general areas

There are a few cleaning to-dos that apply to your entire home. Specifically, you need to pay attention to the floors. Removing all dirt and residue from these surfaces can make things look extra tidy.

• Sweep or vacuum any tile or hardwood floors.
• Use a floor-cleaning solution to mop the floors (wood-safe solution for hardwood floors).
• Vacuum carpeted areas.
• Shampoo and wash the carpet if it's particularly dirty, you have pets, or if your lease requires it.
• Use soapy water to wash baseboards and trims.
• Dust and wipe down the walls.
• Remove any nails from holes and patch them up.
• Use a multi-surface cleaner to clean all windows, inside and out.
• Use a multi-surface cleaner to wipe down window sills and frames.
• Dust and clean door frames.
• Clean light switches and door handles.
• Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures.
• Empty and wipe down cabinets and drawers.
• Empty and clean out any closets, shelving, and other storage areas.
• Wipe down the front door, for an extra touch of cleanliness.

Pro tip: Clean from top to bottom. It can help prevent you from having to redo your work if any debris or dust falls while you clean higher up.

How to clean your bathroom(s)

The bathroom, with its moisture and potential for grime, can be a daunting space, but with the right approach, it can be spotless in no time. It’s a good idea to start with the toilet, since all its nooks and curves can make it the most challenging part of a bathroom to clean.

• Scrub the toilet bowl — inside and out.
• Clean the toilet seat and the outer tank and lid.
• Apply degreaser on the shower or tub, and let it sit for a few minutes.
• Apply degreaser to the walls and floors as well. Also let sit.
• Use disinfectant cleaner to clean the faucet, sink, and countertops.
• Use a sponge or scrub brush to clean off all degreaser.
• Rinse de-greased surfaces with water for an extra shiny finish. 
• Use vinegar to scrub lime off shower heads and faucets.
• Use glass cleaner for glass doors and mirrors. Wipe with a microfiber cloth.
• Empty out and wipe down the inside of the medicine cabinet.
• Wipe down the ventilation fan and light fixtures.

Pro tip: Having a squeegee on hand could make it easier to clean glass and mirrors, and leave few to no streaks.

How to clean your kitchen

The kitchen requires special attention to clean, from the countertops to the nooks and crannies of the appliances. Pay extra attention to the spots that accumulate grease, like around the stove. Don’t forget to clean the fronts and handles of cabinets, as these areas can also collect grime over time.

• Wipe down all countertops with a multi-surface cleaner.
• Apply degreaser on and around the stove, including the backsplash. Let it sit for a few minutes.
• Apply degreaser to the vent hood. Let it sit.
• Apply degreaser to cabinet fronts and knobs. Let it sit.
• Wipe off all degreaser and rinse with water.
• Remove the vent fan from your stove and soak in warm water. Rinse.
• For a gas stove, remove grates and burners and soak in warm water. Then apply degreaser and wipe off.
• Consult the owner’s manual for best practices to clean the inside of the oven. This may be a self-cleaning cycle or a manual scrub.
• If the microwave is a part of your rental, remove the microwave’s plate and rotating base and wash.
• Use soapy water to clean the inside of the microwave.
• If you have a dishwasher, empty out all dishes, fill a small bowl nearly all the way with white vinegar, then run the longest, hottest cycle. This will help disinfect the dishwasher and remove scents.
• Use disinfectant cleaner to scrub the sink, faucet, and handles clean.
• Use a scrub brush to get out any tough stains in the sink.
• Run cold water and ice cubes in the garbage disposal.
• Remove shelves and drawers in the fridge and wash with soapy water.
• Use disinfectant cleaner to clean the inside of the fridge. Use a scrubber for tough spots.

Pro tip: You can clean your garbage disposal by either running cold water and ice cubes in it, or using baking soda. These methods will help knock off any stuck-on food without adding more mess.

Inspect the whole home when you’re done

Once all the grime is gone and you’ve tossed out the trash, do a final walkthrough of the whole place and make sure everything is sparkling clean, from the ceiling fans, to the corners of your drawers, and the far reaches of your lower cabinets. 

Finally, take photos of each room to document the condition of the property. These photos can serve as proof of the property’s condition at move-out, in case your landlord asks, or they try to keep your deposit. 

Don’t forget to take breaks and reward yourself for a job well done; this can be as simple as enjoying a cup of coffee or a short walk outside.