Congratulations on your new place! Moving is an exciting time, but don’t let cleaning your old apartment or house become a chore that weighs you down. The Clean Haven is here to help you ensure a smooth transition and get your security deposit back in full. This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly what you need to do to leave your old place sparkling clean. We’ve included a checklist, room-by-room cleaning tasks, and pro tips to make the process as efficient and stress-free as possible.
Why a Thorough Move-Out Clean Matters
A sparkling clean home isn’t just about getting your deposit back (although that’s a pretty big perk!). Here are some additional reasons why a thorough move-out clean is important:
Get a positive reference from your landlord: Leaving a clean apartment shows your landlord that you were a responsible tenant and increases your chances of getting a positive reference for future rentals.
Avoid unnecessary charges: Many lease agreements include cleaning clauses that allow landlords to deduct cleaning fees from your security deposit if the property isn’t left in an acceptably clean condition.
Make a good impression on the new residents: Starting fresh in a clean space is a much nicer experience for the incoming tenants.
The Clean Haven’s Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
- Empty and clean out all cabinets, drawers, and closets. Pay special attention to crumbs and dust bunnies.
- Remove all of your belongings, including trash and unwanted items. Don’t forget to check under furniture and in appliance nooks.
- Sweep and mop all floors.
- Dust all surfaces, including ceiling fans, light fixtures, blinds, window sills, and baseboards.
- Wipe down all doors and door handles.
- Vacuum all carpets and upholstery.
Kitchen Cleaning
- Wipe down countertops, cabinets, and backsplashes. Pay attention to greasy areas around the stovetop.
- Clean out the inside of the oven. Most ovens have a self-cleaning function that can make this task a breeze.
- Defrost and clean the refrigerator. Don’t forget to remove any spills or crumbs from the shelves and drawers.
- Clean the dishwasher and dispose of any trash in the filter.
- Wipe down the sink and faucet.
Bathroom Cleaning
- Scrub toilets, bathtubs, and showers. Remove any soap scum, mildew, or hard water stains.
- Clean and disinfect the sink and faucet.
- Wipe down mirrors and medicine cabinets.
- Sweep and mop the floors.
Don’t Forget These Often-Overlooked Spots
- Inside windows (including window sills and tracks).
- Light switch covers and electrical outlets.
- Washer and dryer (both inside and out).
- Baseboards and trim.
- Ceiling fans.
- Air vents and filters.
Pro Tips for a Flawless Move-Out Clean
- Work from top to bottom to avoid smudging clean surfaces: Clean out one room at a time. This will help you stay focused and make the process feel less overwhelming.
- Open windows and doors for ventilation: Use cleaning products appropriate for the surface you’re cleaning. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the property.
- Change the air filters in the HVAC system: Take pictures of the clean apartment before you move out. This will serve as documentation in case of any disputes with your landlord about the cleaning condition.
The Clean Haven Can Help!
Moving is a busy time, and cleaning your old place can feel like a daunting task on top of everything else. The Clean Haven is here to help! Our professional cleaning team can take the stress out of cleaning for moving out and ensure your old apartment or house is left sparkling clean. We offer a variety of move-out cleaning packages to fit your needs and budget. Our experienced cleaners will use eco-friendly products and high-quality equipment to get the job done right.
Contact The Clean Haven today for a free quote and let us help you make your move a smooth and stress-free experience!