The Complete Move Out Cleaning Checklist

134 thoughts on “The Complete Move Out Cleaning Checklist”

1. Do you have any tips for cleaning stubborn oven stains as mentioned in your checklist? I always struggle to get mine looking spotless before moving out.

   1. For stubborn oven stains, try applying a paste of baking soda and water, let it sit overnight, then scrub with a sponge. For tough spots, use a plastic scraper. Finish by wiping with vinegar for a clean, streak-free shine.

2. For vacuuming vents and baseboards, do I need any special attachments or tools, or will a regular vacuum work?

   1. A regular vacuum can handle most vents and baseboards, but using a brush or crevice attachment helps reach tighter spaces and remove dust more effectively. If you don’t have attachments, try wiping down areas with a damp cloth after vacuuming.

3. How much time should I budget to get through this whole checklist if I’m mostly cleaning solo after work each day?

   1. If you’re cleaning solo after work, plan for 2-3 hours per day over 3-5 days to finish the full checklist. The exact time depends on your home’s size and how thoroughly you want to clean each area.

4. If my rental has carpet stains that won’t come out even after vacuuming, should I try to get them professionally cleaned, or is that usually the landlord’s responsibility?

   1. If the stains were there before you moved in, it’s usually the landlord’s responsibility. If they happened during your stay, it’s best to try professional cleaning, as some landlords may deduct cleaning costs from your deposit if stains remain.

5. If my rental has carpet stains that won’t come out with normal vacuuming, will that affect my deposit even if I follow all the other steps here?

   1. If carpet stains remain after standard cleaning, your landlord may deduct from your deposit for professional cleaning or repairs, even if you complete the rest of the checklist. It’s best to try spot cleaning or discuss the stains with your landlord.

6. If we deep clean the fridge but leave minor stains behind, could that impact our security deposit refund?

   1. Minor stains in the fridge are unlikely to cause a significant deduction from your security deposit, as most landlords expect reasonable wear and tear. However, leaving the appliance as clean as possible helps avoid any disputes.

7. For cleaning kitchen appliances like the oven and fridge, do you recommend any specific products that are safe for renters to use without damaging surfaces?

   1. For ovens, a baking soda and water paste works well and is gentle on surfaces. For fridges, mild dish soap and warm water are safe. Avoid harsh abrasives or bleach, as they can damage finishes and may violate rental agreements.

8. Is there a recommended order to tackle these tasks, like should I clean the fridge before wiping down the counters in the kitchen?

   1. Yes, it’s best to clean the fridge first before wiping down the counters. This way, any crumbs or spills from the fridge won’t mess up freshly cleaned surfaces, making the process more efficient.

9. How should we handle carpet stains that won’t come out with vacuuming before moving out, or is that usually considered tenant damage by landlords?

   1. For stains that don’t come out with vacuuming, try spot-treating them with a carpet cleaner. Lingering stains may be considered tenant damage, so addressing them before your move-out inspection can help you avoid deductions from your security deposit.

10. Do you have any tips for deep cleaning the inside of the fridge without using harsh chemicals, as recommended in your checklist?

    1. For a chemical-free fridge clean, use a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water or baking soda mixed with water. Wipe shelves and drawers with a soft cloth, rinse, and let them air dry before returning them to the fridge.

11. Do I need to clean inside the oven even if I never used it during my lease, or is wiping it down enough?

    1. Most landlords expect the oven to be clean, regardless of use. Even if you never used it, it’s best to wipe it down inside to remove dust or residue so it looks fresh for inspection.

12. When you say to clean windows inside and out, does that include outside windows on upper floors, or just the inside areas we can reach?

    1. We recommend cleaning both inside and outside surfaces of windows wherever safely accessible. For upper floors, just clean the inside and any outside areas you can reach without special equipment or risking safety.

13. What cleaning products do you recommend for scrubbing chrome fixtures in bathrooms without damaging them?

    1. For chrome fixtures, use a mild dish soap mixed with warm water and a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or rough pads, as they can scratch the surface. For tough spots, vinegar diluted with water works well, but rinse thoroughly afterward.

14. How much time should I set aside to go through this entire checklist for a two-bedroom place? I need to plan around work and kids.

    1. For a two-bedroom place, you should set aside about 4 to 6 hours to complete the entire checklist. If you have help or can split tasks over two days, it will feel more manageable.

15. How much time should I set aside to complete this whole checklist in a two-bedroom apartment with one bathroom?

    1. For a thorough move out cleaning of a two-bedroom, one-bath apartment, plan for 4 to 6 hours. If the space is especially dirty or cluttered, you might need a bit longer.

16. Are landlords usually picky about things like vacuuming vents and baseboards, or is that above and beyond what’s typically expected?

    1. Most landlords expect a general level of cleanliness, which often includes vacuuming floors and wiping baseboards. Deep cleaning vents or scrubbing every inch may not be required, but leaving obvious dust or dirt can lead to deductions from your deposit.

17. If my lease mentions professionally cleaning the carpets, does vacuuming as suggested here usually meet that requirement, or should I hire a service separately?

    1. Vacuuming is helpful, but most leases require a professional carpet cleaning service with a receipt as proof. It’s best to hire a cleaning company to ensure you meet the lease requirement.

18. If my lease requires carpet cleaning, should I hire a professional or is a thorough vacuum usually enough based on your checklist?

    1. If your lease specifies carpet cleaning, it’s best to hire a professional or rent a carpet cleaner, since a thorough vacuum typically isn’t enough to meet this requirement. Check your lease for any specific instructions or proof needed.

19. Do you have any tips for deep cleaning the oven without using harsh chemicals? I want to follow your checklist but keep it eco-friendly.

    1. For an eco-friendly oven clean, sprinkle baking soda on surfaces, spray with water, let it sit overnight, then wipe off. For tough spots, use a paste of baking soda and vinegar. This method avoids harsh chemicals and still gets great results.

20. Do most landlords require you to clean windows on the outside, or is it usually just the inside that matters for getting your deposit back?

    1. Most landlords focus on the interior cleanliness, including inside windows, for deposit returns. Cleaning exterior windows is less commonly required, but some landlords may ask for it. It’s best to check your lease or ask your landlord directly to be sure.

21. Do you have any advice for how to clean baseboards and vents efficiently without specialized equipment as suggested in the checklist?

    1. For baseboards and vents, use a damp microfiber cloth or an old sock on your hand to wipe away dust and grime. A vacuum with a brush attachment helps with vents, but a handheld broom or dry paintbrush works too if you don’t have one.

22. Do you have any tips for tackling tough oven or fridge stains that regular cleaners can’t handle during move out?

    1. For stubborn oven stains, try applying a paste of baking soda and water, let it sit overnight, then scrub and wipe clean. For fridge stains, a mix of hot water and vinegar can help break down sticky residue. Always rinse thoroughly afterward.

23. If my apartment has carpet stains that don’t come out with regular vacuuming, should I hire a professional cleaner for that before moving out?

    1. If regular vacuuming doesn’t remove the carpet stains, hiring a professional cleaner is a good idea. This can help you avoid potential fees from your landlord and improve your chances of getting your full security deposit back.

24. Do you have any tips for cleaning windows on higher floors, especially when the checklist says to clean them inside and out?

    1. For higher floors, it’s safest to clean windows from the inside. Use a telescopic window cleaning tool to reach the exterior glass. If your windows tilt inwards, carefully unlock and tilt them for easier access.

25. If I replace burned out light bulbs, do I need to save receipts or old bulbs to prove I did it for my rental deposit?

    1. You usually don’t need to save receipts or old bulbs for proof, but taking clear photos before and after replacing them can help show you handled the responsibility if your landlord asks.

26. If my apartment has both carpets and hardwood in different rooms, do you have advice on what cleaning products work best for each?

    1. For carpets, use a carpet cleaner or a vacuum suitable for your carpet type. For hardwood, opt for a hardwood floor cleaner and a microfiber mop—avoid excessive water to prevent damage. Always check manufacturer recommendations for both surfaces.

27. For cleaning the oven, do you recommend using store-bought products or are there any effective homemade options that won’t leave a strong smell behind?

    1. Both options can work well. A homemade paste of baking soda and water is effective and usually leaves little to no odor. Let it sit overnight, then wipe clean. Store-bought cleaners are stronger but may have lingering smells.

28. Is it necessary to clean windows on higher floors from the outside as well, or is just cleaning the inside typically sufficient for most landlords?

    1. Most landlords only expect tenants to clean the inside of windows, especially on higher floors where outside access can be difficult or unsafe. However, it’s wise to check your lease or ask your landlord for their specific requirements.

29. When you say to deep clean the fridge, do you recommend defrosting the freezer or is a wipe-down enough for most landlords?

    1. For most landlords, a thorough wipe-down of the fridge and freezer is usually enough. However, if there’s ice build-up, defrosting the freezer is a good idea to leave it in top condition.

30. How long does this whole checklist usually take for a small two-bedroom apartment if I’m doing it by myself?

    1. For a small two-bedroom apartment, the complete move out cleaning checklist usually takes about 4 to 6 hours if you’re working alone. The exact time depends on the apartment’s condition and how thorough you want to be.

31. For small businesses with tenants, do you recommend hiring a professional for move-out cleaning or is this checklist usually manageable for staff?

    1. If your staff has time and attention to detail, the checklist is usually manageable in-house. However, for a quicker turnover or if high standards are required, hiring professionals can help ensure nothing is missed.

32. Do landlords usually require tenants to deep clean appliances like the fridge and oven, or is a surface wipe-down typically sufficient for most rentals?

    1. Landlords typically expect appliances like the fridge and oven to be deep cleaned, not just wiped on the surface. Most move-out checklists include cleaning inside and outside of these appliances to help ensure you get your full deposit back.

33. Does replacing burned out light bulbs include specialty ones like refrigerator bulbs, or just the main fixtures?

    1. The checklist mainly refers to standard bulbs in main fixtures, but replacing specialty bulbs like those in refrigerators is a nice touch and can be included if you want to go above and beyond.

34. Do you have any tips for efficiently deep cleaning the fridge if there’s stubborn residue or lingering odors that won’t go away?

    1. For tough fridge residue, try soaking shelves and drawers in warm, soapy water or use a baking soda paste on stubborn spots. For lingering odors, place an open box of baking soda or a bowl of coffee grounds inside to absorb smells.

35. If I have pets, how thorough does the outdoor cleaning need to be to avoid deposit deductions?

    1. If you have pets, make sure to thoroughly clean up any pet waste, fur, and damage in outdoor areas. Landlords usually look for clean yards, free of pet debris and odor, to avoid deposit deductions.

36. Do you have any tips for removing tough stains from oven surfaces, or should I consider hiring a professional cleaner for that part?

    1. For tough oven stains, try using a baking soda and water paste or a commercial oven cleaner, letting it sit before scrubbing. If stains remain stubborn or you prefer not to handle strong chemicals, hiring a professional cleaner is a good option.

37. If we have a large porch, how thorough does that outdoor cleaning need to be to meet most landlords’ expectations?

    1. Most landlords expect porches to be swept clean, free of cobwebs, dirt, and personal items. Wipe down railings and light fixtures, and remove any trash. Thorough but not necessarily spotless is usually enough unless the lease specifies otherwise.

38. If you have limited time on moving day, which tasks from the checklist would you suggest prioritizing to maximize your chances of getting your deposit back?

    1. Focus on cleaning the kitchen and bathrooms thoroughly, wiping down surfaces, removing all trash, and vacuuming or sweeping floors. Pay extra attention to any areas that were dirty when you moved in to avoid deductions from your deposit.

39. Would you suggest hiring a professional cleaning service for any areas on this checklist, like deep cleaning carpets or windows, or is DIY usually sufficient?

    1. For tasks like deep cleaning carpets or washing exterior windows, hiring a professional service can save time and ensure a thorough job. For most other areas on the checklist, DIY cleaning is usually sufficient if you follow the steps carefully.

40. Should I also have carpets professionally cleaned before moving out, or is vacuuming enough to satisfy most landlords?

    1. Most landlords expect carpets to be professionally cleaned, especially if the lease mentions it or if there are stains. Vacuuming alone is usually not enough. Check your lease or ask your landlord to be sure.

41. Should I also clean inside the dishwasher and washing machine when moving out, or is that typically not expected by landlords?

    1. Cleaning inside the dishwasher and washing machine is not always required, but many landlords appreciate it and may expect appliances to be left fresh and free of residue. It helps ensure you get your full deposit back.

42. Do most landlords expect tenants to clean windows both inside and out, or is cleaning just the interiors usually enough to get your deposit back?

    1. Most landlords expect tenants to clean the interior of windows. Exterior window cleaning is usually not required unless specified in your lease. Always check your lease agreement or ask your landlord to be sure.

43. If I have carpets with a couple of pet stains, would a simple vacuum be enough to meet the standards on this checklist or should I consider steam cleaning?

    1. A simple vacuum usually won’t remove pet stains from carpets. For the checklist standards, it’s best to spot clean the stains or use a steam cleaner to ensure the carpets are thoroughly cleaned and odor-free.

44. Do you have any tips for cleaning tough oven grease when doing a move out? The checklist says to deep clean the stove and oven but that always takes me forever.

    1. To tackle tough oven grease, try applying a baking soda and water paste, let it sit for at least 30 minutes, then scrub with a sponge. For stubborn spots, a bit of white vinegar helps break down residue.

45. For the kitchen section, do you recommend any specific products for cleaning stubborn oven or stovetop stains that won’t damage surfaces?

    1. For stubborn oven or stovetop stains, use a paste of baking soda and water or a non-abrasive cleaner labeled safe for your appliance. Avoid steel wool or harsh chemicals, as these can damage surfaces. Always check your manufacturer’s recommendations.

46. For deep cleaning the fridge, do I need to defrost the freezer before moving out, or is a quick wipe enough if there’s no frost buildup?

    1. If there’s no frost buildup in the freezer and it’s already clean, a thorough wipe-down is usually enough. Defrosting is mainly necessary if there’s visible ice. Just make sure both fridge and freezer are empty, clean, and odor-free.

47. For renters short on time, which areas from your list are most important to focus on to maximize the chances of getting a deposit back?

    1. Focus on high-traffic and highly visible areas: clean kitchen appliances and counters, bathroom fixtures, floors, and remove all trash. Pay special attention to anything that shows obvious dirt or damage, as landlords check these spots closely during inspections.

48. Is it usually expected to clean windows on the outside as well, or is inside enough for most landlords?

    1. Most landlords only expect the inside of windows to be cleaned during move-out. However, it’s a good idea to check your lease or ask your landlord directly, since some may require exterior window cleaning as well.

49. How long does it usually take to finish this checklist for a two-bedroom apartment if I’m doing it alone?

    1. For a two-bedroom apartment, completing the full checklist on your own usually takes about 5 to 7 hours. The exact time depends on how thorough you are and how much clutter or buildup there is.

50. For the kitchen section, do you recommend any specific cleaners for wiping down appliances and countertops to avoid damaging surfaces?

    1. For kitchen appliances and countertops, use a mild dish soap with warm water or a gentle all-purpose cleaner. Avoid abrasive scrubbers and harsh chemicals, especially on stainless steel, granite, or delicate surfaces to prevent scratches or discoloration.

51. How much time should I set aside to realistically complete this whole checklist before my lease ends?

    1. Plan to set aside a full day, about 6 to 8 hours, for a thorough move out cleaning if you’re working alone. If your space is larger or you have help, adjust the time accordingly.

52. I’m curious, do most landlords actually check outdoor areas like porches and decks as closely as they do the inside during a move-out inspection?

    1. Landlords often focus more on the inside, but many do check porches and decks for cleanliness and damage, especially if those areas are part of your lease. It’s wise to tidy outdoor spaces to avoid possible deductions.

53. How long should I realistically set aside to complete this full checklist before my final walk-through with the landlord?

    1. Plan to set aside at least 4 to 8 hours, depending on the size and condition of your place. If your home is larger or needs extra attention, consider splitting it over two days to ensure you cover everything thoroughly.

54. For rental properties with carpet stains that don’t come out with vacuuming, do you recommend a specific cleaning method or should I hire a professional?

    1. For stubborn carpet stains that vacuuming can’t remove, try spot-treating with a carpet stain remover or a mix of water and mild detergent first. If the stain persists, it’s usually best to hire a professional cleaner to avoid damage or extra charges.

55. If my rental has carpet stains that don’t come out after vacuuming, should I try renting a carpet cleaner myself or is that something the landlord expects to handle?

    1. For tough carpet stains, it’s usually best to try renting a carpet cleaner yourself before moving out. Most landlords expect tenants to leave carpets as clean as possible, and addressing stains yourself can help ensure you get your full deposit back.

56. For cleaning appliances like the oven and fridge, should we use specific cleaners or are regular disinfectants enough to satisfy most landlords?

    1. For ovens and fridges, it’s best to use specific cleaners—oven cleaner for baked-on grease and a mild fridge cleaner or baking soda for the fridge. Regular disinfectants may not remove tough stains or buildup that landlords often check for.

57. If my lease says professional cleaning is required, would following this checklist be enough or do I still need a service?

    1. If your lease specifically requires professional cleaning, you’ll likely need to hire a certified cleaning service, even if you follow the checklist. The checklist is helpful, but a receipt from a professional company is usually required by landlords.

58. Do you have any suggestions for cleaning tough oven stains that might not come off with regular products from your checklist?

    1. For stubborn oven stains, try making a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the stains, let it sit overnight, then scrub and wipe clean. For extra tough spots, a little white vinegar can help break down residue.

59. Is it usually necessary to wash outdoor furniture even if it looks clean, or is a quick wipe-down enough to satisfy most landlords?

    1. Most landlords appreciate outdoor furniture being wiped down thoroughly, even if it looks clean. Unless it’s visibly dirty, a quick but careful wipe-down is usually enough to meet move-out expectations.

60. If I have a pet, are there any specific cleaning products you recommend for outdoor spaces to make sure there’s no lingering smell?

    1. For outdoor spaces, try using an enzymatic cleaner designed for pet odors, as they break down organic residues. Also, a mixture of white vinegar and water can help neutralize smells on patios or decks. Always rinse surfaces thoroughly after cleaning.

61. When deep cleaning the fridge before moving out, should we also defrost the freezer if the lease doesn’t specify?

    1. Yes, it’s a good idea to defrost the freezer even if the lease doesn’t mention it. This prevents water damage, mold, and makes the appliance ready for the next tenant. Just make sure to leave it clean and dry.

62. For cleaning the oven, do you recommend a specific cleaner that won’t leave any smell for the next tenant?

    1. For a scent-free oven clean, use a paste of baking soda and water. Spread it inside the oven, let it sit overnight, then wipe it clean. This method leaves no chemical smell behind.

63. If my rental has carpets that are pretty stained, do I need to hire a professional cleaner to make sure I get my deposit back?

    1. If your rental carpets are heavily stained, hiring a professional cleaner is often a good idea, as landlords may deduct from your deposit for visible stains. Check your lease—some require professional cleaning receipts for carpets when you move out.

64. For replacing burned out light bulbs, should I stick with the same wattage or is it okay to upgrade to LEDs before moving out?

    1. It’s fine to upgrade to LED bulbs before moving out, as long as the wattage equivalent matches what the fixture supports. LEDs are energy-efficient and usually welcomed by landlords.

65. For cleaning windows inside and out, do you have product suggestions that are safe for apartment renters to use and won’t leave streaks?

    1. For streak-free window cleaning, try using a vinegar and water solution or a gentle commercial cleaner like Method or Seventh Generation. Both are safe for renters and effective. Use a microfiber cloth or squeegee to avoid streaks.

66. Is it necessary to clean the inside of the oven and fridge even if they look pretty clean already, or is a surface wipe enough for most landlords?

    1. Most landlords expect the inside of the oven and fridge to be thoroughly cleaned, not just wiped on the surface. Even if they look clean, hidden spills or odors can cause issues during inspection, so a deep clean is usually recommended.

67. Is it usually required to clean the windows on the outside as well, or is that just a nice-to-have for getting your security deposit back?

    1. Cleaning the inside of the windows is usually expected for move-out, but exterior window cleaning is rarely required unless your lease specifically mentions it. Double-check your lease to be sure, but outside cleaning is generally considered a bonus.

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