Moving homes brings excitement and stress. Between packing boxes and coordinating movers, essential cleaning tasks often get overlooked. A thorough move in move out cleaning creates the fresh start you deserve in your new space while helping secure your full security deposit from your previous residence. Whether hiring professionals or tackling it yourself, a comprehensive move out cleaning checklist ensures no corner goes untouched.
Clean homes create positive impressions for landlords and new occupants alike. By following our detailed move-in/move-out cleaning recommendations, you’ll establish the perfect foundation for your next chapter while properly closing the door on your previous one.
Why Clean Before Moving Out?
Thoroughly cleaning your residence according to a professional cleaning checklist before moving out is important for several reasons:
- Receive Full Security Deposit Back
Your lease likely requires leaving your rental “broom clean” and in the same condition as when you moved in, minus normal wear and tear. Thorough cleaning helps ensure you receive your full security deposit back. Document the cleaning process through photos and videos in case any deposit disputes arise.
- Leave Positive Impression
Even if you own your home, you’ll want to leave a positive final impression on guests or the next residents. Deep cleaning clears away dirt, stains, and odors to support a brighter, cleaner impression.
- Ease the Moving Out Process
Cleaning with all your items still inside the home can be a challenge. Get ahead of the move by thoroughly cleaning each room before the movers arrive. This clears the slate providing easier access to clean behind and under furniture as it leaves.
- Avoid Cleaning Charges
Some landlords charge cleaning fees if you don’t adequately clean before moving out. Following this detailed checklist helps you avoid surprise charges.
Why Clean Before Moving In?
Similarly, thoroughly move in cleaning is highly recommended for reasons given below:
- Remove Surface Dirt and Grime
Even if the previous tenant or homeowner cleaned, there is often lingering dirt and dust during the move transition. Thorough cleaning removes this surface debris to start fresh in your new dwelling.
- Eliminate Allergens and Germs
You likely don’t know how well the previous residents cleaned and sanitized the home. Disinfect all surfaces to protect against bacteria and allergens left behind on counters, fixtures, and flooring.
- Feel More at Home
Cleaning away old dirt, stains, and odors helps the new space feel cleaner and more comfortable. This fresh slate supports mentally transitioning it into your home.
- Test Appliances and Fixtures
Cleaning appliances, fixtures, and systems provides the perfect opportunity to test them out and address any issues immediately versus several weeks or months after moving in.
Read Also: Meaning of Janitorial Services? Commercial Cleaning Vs. Janitorial Cleaning Services
Best Move in Cleaning NYC Checklist
Overall Cleaning:
- Dust all surfaces including baseboards, shelves, and light fixtures.
- Wipe down walls, doors, and switch plates.
- Sweep, vacuum, and mop floors in all rooms.
- Clean windows and window sills.
- Clean air vents and replace filters if necessary.
- Clean ceiling fans and light fixtures.
Miscellaneous:
- Clean light switches and doorknobs.
- Clean and sanitize trash cans.
- Clean entryways and foyer areas.
- Sweep and tidy up outdoor areas if applicable.
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces throughout the home.
Finishing Touches:
- Replace any burned-out light bulbs.
- Set up fresh air fresheners or open windows to air out the space.
- Place new shelf liners in cabinets if desired.
- Make a note of any maintenance issues or repairs needed.
Best Professional Move Out Cleaning Checklist and Tasks
It’s vital to know what needs cleaning when moving out, whether you’ll clean yourself or use professional services.
A good starting point is reviewing your rental or purchase contract. Landlords and realtors often specify required cleanliness levels. If details aren’t provided, ask to avoid potential re-cleaning or losing a portion of your deposit. A complete move-out checklist is a handy guide.
Cleaning Bedrooms
A systematic top-to-bottom approach is most efficient for cleaning rooms or an entire home. For multi-story homes, start on the upper floor and descend, completing each room from top-to-bottom.
Bedroom Moving Cleaning Checklist
- Dust all objects
- Clean closet interiors and exteriors
- Remove marks from walls and baseboards
- Clean interior windowsills and tracks
- Wipe doorknobs, frames, and doors
- Empty waste bins
- Vacuum and damp mop hard floors
- Vacuum carpets and area rugs
Bathroom Cleaning for Move-Out
Cleaning empty bathrooms is easier without maneuvering around personal items. Lay old towels to soak floors for a thorough wash. Allow deep cleaners NYC to penetrate tough stains while tackling other tasks. You know what it also comes under the standard cleaning service checklist which many reputable firms provide.
Bathroom Cleaning List
- Disinfect bathtub, shower walls, and glass doors
- Clean and disinfect sinks
- Clean and disinfect toilet inside and out
- Clean all mirrors
- Wipe down cabinet interiors and exteriors
- Dust and clean counters and shelves
- Dust all surfaces
- Wipe doorknobs, frames, and doors
- Clean light switches
- Empty trash and recycling
- Spot clean walls and baseboards
- Sweep and mop floors
Cleaning the Kitchen
Kitchen cleaning is tough with ingrained stains and smells. Allow oven or stain removers to penetrate while cleaning elsewhere.
Kitchen Cleaning List
- Clean appliance exteriors and interiors
- Wipe down small appliances
- Clean inside and outside cabinets
- Wash sinks and backsplashes
- Wash dishes
- Clean interior windowsills and tracks
- Wipe doorknobs, frames, and doors
- Clean light switches
- Take out trash and recycling
Hiring Professional Cleaners for Move-in and Move-out Cleaning Services
When moving chaos peaks, professional cleaners deliver peace of mind. Their expertise turns overwhelming cleaning tasks into a simple checkbox on your moving timeline.
When Professional Help Makes Sense?
Let’s face it: moving is exhausting. Professional cleaners arrive with specialized equipment and commercial-grade products when your energy is depleted. Their detailed documentation can protect your security deposit if disputes arise, and many offer satisfaction guarantees.
Finding Quality Services
The best cleaning companies book quickly, especially during summer moving season. Look for bonded and insured professionals with strong online reviews. Request references and verify their move-out cleaning experience before booking.
Smart Scheduling
Reserve your cleaning team 2-3 weeks in advance (longer during peak seasons). Schedule after your belongings are removed but before returning keys. This timing allows cleaners full access to empty spaces while meeting your landlord’s deadlines.
Protection Through Documentation
Professional services provide detailed cleaning records, including checklists and sometimes photos. This documentation serves as valuable evidence of your property’s condition should deposit disputes arise later.
Bottom Line
You can move into and out of any home with confidence with a detailed checklist and some elbow grease. Just roll up your sleeves, gather supplies, put on some music, and get cleaning!
DLL Cleaning Services is your trusted partner for move-out and move-in cleaning services. When relocating your home or office, thorough cleaning among the chaos often slips through the cracks. Our uniformed cleaning crews eliminate this stress, so you can focus on packing and remodeling.
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FAQs
How much does professional move-out cleaning typically cost?
Professional move out cleaning services generally range from $200-$400 for a standard apartment, with prices varying based on property size, condition, and location. Many companies offer free estimates based on your specific needs and square footage.
How far in advance should I schedule my move-in/move-out cleaning?
Book your move-in/move-out cleaning at least 2-3 weeks before your moving date, especially during peak season (summer months). This ensures you get your preferred time slot and aren’t scrambling to find available cleaners at the last minute.
How do I start a move-out cleaning business?
To start a move-out cleaning business, research local competition and pricing, create standardized service packages, invest in quality equipment, obtain proper insurance, and build relationships with property managers and real estate agents for referrals. Develop detailed checklists for consistency and document your work with before/after photos to showcase your expertise.
What areas do landlords check most carefully during move-out inspections?
Landlords typically focus on kitchens (especially appliance interiors, grease buildup), bathrooms (grout, toilets, shower doors), carpets/flooring for stains or damage, and walls for marks or holes. Following a comprehensive move out cleaning checklist helps address these critical areas.
Is it worth hiring professionals for move-out cleaning?
Yes, professional move out cleaning services often pay for themselves by helping secure your full security deposit return. They have specialized equipment, strong cleaning agents, and experience tackling stubborn issues that might be difficult to handle yourself during the stress of moving.
