Simple Move Out Cleaning Guide

Posted on 22/01/2025

Moving out of a house or apartment can be a stressful experience, but leaving your old place in pristine condition doesn't have to be. A comprehensive cleaning not only ensures you get your security deposit back (if you're renting) but also provides a fresh start for the next occupant. Here's a simple move out cleaning guide to help you along the way.

Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Before you dive into cleaning, make sure you have all necessary supplies:

• All-purpose cleaner

• Glass cleaner

• Disinfectant wipes

• Scrub brushes and sponges

• Microfiber cloths

• Broom, mop, and vacuum cleaner

• Trash bags

• Optional: carpet cleaner, oven cleaner, and grout cleaner

Start With Decluttering

Before the deep cleaning begins, declutter each room. Dispose of anything you don't plan to bring along, and pack away items that are coming with you. Decluttering helps you focus on areas that genuinely need cleaning and makes the process less overwhelming.

Clean Room-by-Room

Tackling one room at a time is an efficient way to thoroughly clean your home. Here's a quick breakdown:

Living Room and Bedrooms

• Dust all surfaces, including light fixtures, ceiling fans, and baseboards.

• Clean windows with glass cleaner and wipe down the ledges.

• Vacuum carpets or sweep and mop floors.

• Don't forget to remove any nails or hooks from the walls and fill the holes with spackle.

Kitchen

• Empty and clean all cabinets and drawers.

• Wipe down countertops and backsplash with disinfectant.

• Cleaning the sink and faucet, making sure to remove any residue or stains.

• Deep clean appliances such as the oven, refrigerator, and microwave.

• Sweep and mop the floor.

Bathrooms

• Scrub the toilet, shower, tub, and sink thoroughly.

• Clean mirrors and any glass shower doors with glass cleaner.

• Wipe down all surfaces, including counters and fixtures, with disinfectant.

• Ensure the floors are swept and mopped.

Other Areas

• Hallways: Dust and clean the walls, baseboards, and floors.

• Closets: Make sure they are completely emptied and wipe down shelves and walls.

• Garage and outdoor spaces: Sweep these areas and remove any personal items.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Ensures return of your security deposit.

• Provides a fresh start for next occupants.

• Reduces moving stress by creating an organized plan.

Cons

• Time-consuming and physically demanding.

• Requires a variety of cleaning supplies.

• Can be overwhelming without a structured plan.

Tips

• Start early to avoid last-minute stress.

• Focus on high-traffic areas first.

• Use eco-friendly cleaners to reduce chemical exposure.

• Enlist help from friends or family to make the process quicker.

• Hire professional cleaners if the task feels too daunting.

Takeaways

Moving out cleaning can feel like a monumental task, but breaking it down into a room-by-room approach and starting with decluttering can make it manageable. Focus on efficiency and thoroughness, using the right supplies, to ensure you leave the place spotless for the next tenant.

Conclusion

Following this simple move out cleaning guide will help you leave your old home in excellent condition, ensuring you get your security deposit back and start fresh in your new place. With the right approach, tools, and a bit of elbow grease, you can make your transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.