Moving out of a home can be a stressful experience, but one of the most important tasks to tackle before handing over the keys is cleaning. A thorough cleaning not only ensures you leave the property in great condition but also helps you secure your security deposit if you’re renting. Whether you’re moving out of an apartment or a house, the following steps will guide you through the best way to clean your home before moving out, leaving it spotless and ready for its next occupants.
1. Start with a Plan
Before you begin cleaning, it’s important to have a plan. Walking through the entire house and making a list of tasks is the first step. This way, you can stay organized and focused. Break down your cleaning tasks by room, and prioritize areas that require more attention, such as the kitchen, bathrooms, and floors. This ensures you don’t overlook any areas and helps you stay on track, especially when you’re pressed for time.
2. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Having all your cleaning supplies ready before you start will save time and keep you from running back and forth to find what you need. The essential cleaning supplies for a move-out cleaning include:
- Multi-surface cleaner
- Disinfectant
- Glass cleaner
- Microfiber cloths or rags
- Sponges and scrub brushes
- Vacuum cleaner, broom, and mop
- Bucket
- All-purpose cleaner
- Trash bags
- Baking soda (for deodorizing)
Make sure you have the right products for each surface. For example, some surfaces may require a specific cleaner to avoid damage. It’s also helpful to have gloves on hand to protect your hands from harsh chemicals.
3. Tackle the Kitchen First
The kitchen tends to accumulate the most grease, grime, and dirt, making it one of the most important areas to clean before moving out. Start with the appliances: clean the oven, stovetop, refrigerator, and microwave. For the oven, use a good oven cleaner to remove grease and baked-on food. Don’t forget to clean the refrigerator’s interior and wipe down any crumbs or spills. For the stovetop, use a degreaser if needed to remove tough stains.
Next, focus on the cabinets and countertops. Wipe down all surfaces, and if the cabinets are particularly greasy, use a degreasing solution or dish soap. Don’t forget to clean the sink and faucet thoroughly, removing any build-up of soap scum or food particles.
4. Deep Clean the Bathrooms
Bathrooms can quickly become the dirtiest area in a home due to moisture and soap scum build-up. Begin by cleaning the toilet, including behind and around it. Use a toilet cleaner for the bowl and wipe down all surfaces with a disinfectant. Pay special attention to areas like the toilet seat, flush handle, and the base of the toilet.
Next, clean the shower or bathtub. Scrub the tiles, grout, and any soap scum accumulation with a suitable cleaner. If necessary, use a mildew cleaner for stubborn mold or mildew. Wipe down mirrors and clean any light fixtures. Finish by mopping the floors to remove any dirt or grime that may have built up.
5. Dust and Wipe All Surfaces
Dusting should be done throughout the entire home to ensure that every surface is clean. Dust furniture, shelves, baseboards, light fixtures, and any other surfaces where dust may have settled. Use a microfiber cloth to trap dust rather than spreading it around.
Don’t forget to wipe down doors, window sills, and door frames. These areas often accumulate dust and grime that are easily overlooked. Pay attention to the corners of the rooms and under furniture, where dust tends to gather.
6. Clean the Floors
Once all the surfaces have been cleaned, focus on the floors. Begin by vacuuming the carpets to remove dirt, dust, and debris. If there are any stains, use a carpet cleaner or spot treatment to address them before vacuuming.
For hardwood or tile floors, sweep or vacuum to pick up dirt and debris, then mop using a floor cleaner appropriate for the type of flooring. Be sure to get into the corners and edges of each room where dirt can accumulate.
If your floors have any sticky spots or build-up, use a mild cleaning solution to scrub them away. It’s important to leave the floors looking pristine for the next occupants.
7. Clean the Windows and Window Treatments
Clean windows allow natural light to shine through and create a bright and welcoming environment. Use a glass cleaner to wipe down windows, and don’t forget to clean the window tracks and screens as well. These often gather dirt and dust, so be sure to give them a good cleaning.
If your home has blinds or curtains, be sure to clean them as well. For blinds, a microfiber cloth or duster will help remove dust and dirt from the slats. If you have curtains, consider washing them or having them dry-cleaned to remove any accumulated dust, dirt, or odors.
8. Remove Any Trash
As you clean each room, be sure to collect any trash or unwanted items. Take out the garbage and empty all bins, including in the kitchen and bathrooms. Before leaving the home, make sure there is no leftover trash left behind. This will ensure that the space is fresh and ready for the next person to move in.
9. Touch Up Any Walls and Doors
As a final step, check the walls for any stains or marks that may have been left behind. Use a mild soap and water solution to remove marks, or use a specialized wall cleaner for tougher spots. Don’t forget to wipe down any doors, as they often get smudged or stained with daily use. If necessary, you can also touch up any paint that may have been chipped or scratched during your time in the home.
10. Final Walkthrough
Once you’ve completed the cleaning process, conduct a final walkthrough of the entire house. Take note of any areas you may have missed, and make sure that all rooms look as spotless as possible. If you’re renting, this step is especially important to ensure you meet the landlord’s expectations for cleanliness.
Wrapping Up
Cleaning your home before moving out can seem like a daunting task, but with a methodical approach, it can be done efficiently and effectively. By starting with a plan, gathering your supplies, and systematically cleaning each area of the house, you can leave the home spotless and in excellent condition. A little time spent cleaning now will pay off by ensuring you get your full security deposit back and leave a positive impression with future tenants or homeowners.