The Best Way to Clean Your House Before Moving On - Move Out Checklist

Moving to a new place is both exciting and stressful. One crucial task on your list is cleaning your house before moving on. A thorough move out cleaning checklist makes a world of difference -- not only does it help you leave on good terms, but it can also ensure you get your deposit back if you're a renter. Whether you are a tenant, landlord, or homeowner preparing to sell, knowing the best way to clean your house before moving on is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through every step for a sparkling clean home before you leave.

Why Move Out Cleaning Matters

Why should you invest your valuable time and effort into move out cleaning? Here are some important reasons:

• Get Your Deposit Back: For renters, a clean house means a greater chance of receiving the full security deposit.
• Impress Buyers or New Occupants: A spotless home creates a positive impression for the next occupants or potential buyers, possibly influencing a sale.
• Meet Lease Requirements: Most leases spell out cleaning requirements when vacating the property.
• A Sense of Closure: Leaving behind a tidy space gives peace of mind and signals the start of your next adventure.

Move Out Cleaning Preparation: Gather Your Supplies

Before diving in, prepare your cleaning toolkit. Moving often means packing everything away, so set aside these essential supplies when cleaning your house before moving out:

• All-purpose cleaner
• Disinfectant
• Glass cleaner
• Baking soda & vinegar
• Scrubbing sponges and brushes
• Microfiber cloths
• Vacuum cleaner with attachments
• Mop and bucket
• Trash bags
• Duster or dusting wand
• Extension cords (for hard-to-reach areas)
• Rubber gloves to protect your hands

Tip: For a deep move out clean, you may also want to rent a carpet cleaner or hire professional cleaning services for tricky problems like mold or heavy odors.

The Ultimate Move Out Cleaning Checklist

The best way to clean your house before moving on is a systematic approach. Clean from top to bottom and room by room. Here's the ultimate step-by-step checklist to ensure you don't overlook any critical task:

1. General Cleaning Steps for the Whole House

• Dust everything: Start high (ceiling fans, lights, shelves) and work down to baseboards.
• Remove cobwebs from corners and ceilings.
• Wipe down walls and doors, paying attention to marks or handprints.
• Clean baseboards, moldings, and trim.
• Clean windows, sills, and tracks inside and out if accessible.
• Polish mirrors and glass surfaces to eliminate streaks or fingerprints.
• Vacuum carpets and rugs thoroughly. Schedule a steam clean if carpets are stained or required by your lease.
• Sweep and mop floors in hard-surfaced areas. Don't forget corners and edges.
• Empty all trash and remove any remaining belongings.

2. Kitchen Deep Cleaning Before Moving

Pay special attention to the kitchen -- this area is scrutinized most by landlords and buyers. Here's your move out kitchen cleaning checklist:

• Empty and clean all cupboards and drawers. Wipe inside and outside, removing crumbs and stains.
• Scrub countertops with a disinfectant cleaner.
• Clean sink, faucet, and drain holes. Use a paste of baking soda for stubborn stains.
• Degrease backsplash and remove any marks or stains from walls.
• Clean the oven and stovetop (removable parts can be soaked in soapy water for easier cleaning).
• Wipe down all appliances:
  • Microwave - wipe inside and out
  • Refrigerator - empty, clean shelves, drawers, and leave doors open when done
  • Dishwasher - run a cycle with an empty load using vinegar
• Take out kitchen trash and wipe bin area clean.
• Sweep and mop kitchen floor, especially under appliances.

3. Bathroom Move Out Cleaning Steps

The bathroom is another critical focus when cleaning your house before moving out. Follow this checklist:

• Scrub the toilet inside and out, including the base and behind.
• Clean shower and tub, scrubbing grout, fixtures, and any soap scum or mold.
• Shine faucets and handles, wiping water spots and fingerprints.
• Clean the mirror, removing any streaks.
• Wipe countertops and cabinets, cleaning inside drawers and doors.
• Disinfect sinks, including drain holes and surrounding counters.
• Wipe towel bars, toilet paper holders, and hooks.
• Sweep and mop bathroom floor, especially in corners.
• Empty trash cans and remove personal items.

4. Bedrooms & Living Room Move Out Cleaning

• Remove any nails or hooks from walls, patch holes if required.
• Dust built-in shelves and wardrobes.
• Clean inside closets, wipe down shelves, walls, and doors.
• Vacuum carpets thoroughly; spot clean stains.
• Sweep and mop hard floors if present.
• Check under beds or furniture for forgotten items or dust bunnies.

5. Utility Room, Laundry, and Entryways

• Wipe down washer/dryer, clean out lint traps.
• Clean utility sink and surrounding area.
• Wipe down light switches, door handles, and any surfaces touched often.
• Clean out any closets, mudrooms or coat racks.

Room-by-Room Move Out Cleaning Checklist (Quick Reference)

• All rooms: Dust, wipe surfaces, clean light fixtures, vacuum or sweep floors, empty trash.
• Kitchen: Clean appliances, cabinets, countertops, sink, backsplash, floor.
• Bathrooms: Scrub toilet, tub, shower, sink, mirrors, cabinets, floors.
• Bedrooms: Empty closets, clean windows, floors, patch holes.
• Living room/family room: Dust electronics, wipe glass, clean under furniture, floors.
• Entryways/hallways: Clean doors, switches, remove scuffs, sweep or vacuum.

Pro Move Out Cleaning Tips & Tricks

If you want to ensure the cleanest house before moving on, use these expert tricks:

• Work from Top Down: Start high, so dirt and dust fall to the floor and are picked up last.
• Use a Toothbrush: Small brushes get into tight spaces like grout, corners, and around faucet bases.
• Magic Erasers: These remove tough wall scuffs, crayon marks, and minor stains easily.
• Let Cleaners Sit: Apply spray cleaners, especially in kitchens/bathrooms, and let them soak--less scrubbing required!
• Ventilation: Open windows to help odors and fumes dissipate as you clean.
• Don't Forget Air Vents and Filters: Dust and wipe down, and change A/C filters if required by your lease.
• Photograph Your Work: Take pictures of cleaned rooms for your records when handing back the property.

Move Out Cleaning FAQ

How clean should my house be before moving out?

Your house should be in "broom clean" or "move-in ready" condition. This means free of debris, dust, stains, and rubbish -- just as you would want when moving in.

Do I need to hire move out cleaners?

While hiring professionals ensures every detail is handled, DIY move out cleaning using the above checklist is sufficient for most apartments and homes if you have time and proper tools. For special situations (heavy damage, pest issues, strong odors), it may be necessary to call in the pros.

How long does move out cleaning take?

On average, move out house cleaning can take anywhere from 4-10 hours, depending on the size and condition of the property. Multiple cleaners can speed up the process.

What rooms do landlords check most during the move out inspection?

Landlords and realtors focus closely on kitchens, bathrooms, carpets, and walls. Make sure these areas are spotless!

Download: Printable Move Out Cleaning Checklist

To keep track, use a printable cleanser schedule. Click here to download your move out cleaning checklist PDF and check off each task as you go!

Final Steps Before Leaving

• Do a final walk-through: Check all rooms for overlooked items, especially drawers, closets and cabinets.
• Double-check windows: Ensure they are closed and locked.
• Turn off all lights: Unplug appliances and turn off the power if required.
• Leave keys and garage openers: Follow landlord or realtor instructions for key drop-off.
• Take photos: For your records and protection, photograph each clean, empty room and appliances.

Conclusion: Your House Is Ready for a Fresh Start

Cleaning your house before moving on is more than a courtesy--it's a vital step to protect your deposit, your reputation, and your peace of mind. By following this move out cleaning checklist and practical tips, you make the process easier and more organized. Remember: attention to detail, systematic cleaning, and a little elbow grease will guarantee you leave your old home just as inviting as you found it.

Ready for your move? Check, clean, and move on with confidence! For more moving tips and home cleaning guides, bookmark this article and share it with friends preparing for a big move.