Cleaning Checklist for Apartment Move-Out

Cleaning Checklist for Apartment Move-Out

Moving apartments can be stressful, and cleaning your apartment is often the most time-consuming part. A thorough cleaning is important not only while you’re living there but especially before you move out. It can help avoid any issues with your landlord. Be sure to check your property’s cleaning guidelines with your management, as they may vary.

Taking the time to clean properly before you leave will make the moving process smoother and give you peace of mind. A clean apartment shows you’re a responsible tenant. This blog will guide you through the cleaning process, whether you’re moving out of a studio or a larger apartment. We’ve created a step-by-step checklist to make the task easier and stress-free. Let’s get started!

Start with the Basics: Gather Your Supplies

Before you start cleaning, it’s essential to have the right supplies on hand. Having everything you need ready to go will save you time and help you stay organized. Gather your cleaning supplies and make sure you have the essentials to tackle every area in your apartment.

Here’s a list of the essential cleaning supplies you’ll need:

• All-purpose cleaner: Great for most surfaces, from countertops to shelves.
• Glass cleaner: For windows, mirrors, and any glass surfaces.
• Disinfectant: To sanitize high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and bathroom surfaces.
• Microfiber cloths: These are gentle on surfaces and excellent for wiping down areas without leaving streaks.
• Sponges and scrubbing pads: For tackling tough stains, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, particularly the shower.
• Vacuum cleaner / broom and dustpan: Depending on your flooring type, you’ll need either a vacuum for carpet or a broom for hardwood floors.
• Mop and bucket: To finish off your floors and leave them sparkling clean.
• Trash bags: To get rid of any old trash, garbage, and things you no longer need.
• Rubber gloves: To protect your hands from harsh cleaners and grime.
• Step stool: For reaching high shelves, light fixtures, and areas above your head.

Room-by-Room Cleaning Breakdown

Cleaning your apartment before you move out can feel like a big task, but breaking it down room by room makes it easier. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure you don’t miss anything and your apartment is sparkling clean.

Kitchen

The kitchen is often the most challenging room to clean, but with a little elbow grease, you’ll have it looking like new. Start with the surfaces, and work your way to the appliances and floors. Use these tips to make your kitchen shinier than ever! 

• Countertops & Cabinets: Wipe down all countertops and any other surfaces with an all-purpose cleaner. Don’t forget to clean inside your cabinets and drawers. Remove any crumbs or food debris, and wipe them down to ensure they’re spotless. If there’s any grease buildup around the stove, use a degreaser to tackle it.
• Appliances:
  • Fridge: Start by removing all food, shelves, and drawers. Wipe them down with warm soapy water or a vinegar solution. Clean both the interior and exterior, including the door seals.
  • Oven: Clean the stovetop with a scrubbing pad or sponge to remove any burned food. For the oven, use a cleaner specifically designed for ovens to tackle grease and food residue. Scrub the oven racks and wipe down the oven door.
  • Microwave & Dishwasher: Wipe down the inside of the microwave with a damp cloth, and use a glass cleaner for the exterior. For the dishwasher, wipe down the inside and exterior, and remove any debris from the filter.
• Floors: Sweep or vacuum the floors to remove crumbs and dirt. Then mop the floors, paying attention to any spills or stains.
• Trash: Empty all trash bins and clean them out with disinfectant.

Living Room & Bedrooms

These areas may seem simple to clean, but paying attention to detail will make a big difference. Here’s how to make sure your living and sleeping areas are spotless:

• Dusting: Start by wiping down all surfaces in the living room and bedrooms. Use a microfiber cloth to clean shelves, tables, baseboards, and window sills. Make sure to dust off any lamps, light fixtures, or furniture, too.
• Floors: Vacuum carpets and rugs to pick up dust, dirt, and any debris. For hardwood or tile floors, sweep and mop, making sure to clean any corners where dust tends to gather.
• Walls & Doors: Spot clean the walls to remove stains, marks, or fingerprints. Use a mild cleaner or a magic eraser for scuffs. Don’t forget to wipe down doors, handles, and light switches—these areas are often touched frequently and can accumulate grime.
• Windows: Clean the windows with glass cleaner and wipe down the blinds or curtains. If your windows are particularly dirty, consider using a vinegar-water solution for a streak-free finish.

Bathroom

The bathroom often needs the most attention when it comes to deep cleaning. Pay special attention to the sink, toilet, shower, and floors to make sure everything is disinfected and fresh. Here’s what to focus on:

• Sink & Countertops: Clean and disinfect the sink and faucet, paying attention to any soap scum or toothpaste buildup. Wipe down the countertops, and make sure there’s no water streaks left behind.
• Toilet: Scrub the toilet both inside and out using a toilet cleaner or disinfectant. Don’t forget the base and behind the toilet where dust can gather.
• Shower/Tub: If you have a bathtub, scrub the tub and shower walls to remove soap scum, mildew, and stains. Use a grout cleaner for any grout lines that may have discoloration.
• Mirror & Glass: Clean the bathroom mirror and any glass shower doors. Use a glass cleaner to get rid of streaks and water spots.
• Floors: Sweep and mop the bathroom floor, focusing on the corners, behind the toilet, and around the sink. Bathrooms can trap dust and hair, so make sure you get all the nooks and crannies.
• Trash: Empty all trash bins and sanitize them with a disinfecting wipe or cleaner.

Entryway & Hallways

These high-traffic areas often get overlooked but are important for making a great final impression.

• Floors: Sweep and mop or vacuum the entryway and hallway floors to remove dirt and debris, especially in areas near the door where shoes track in dust.
• Dusting: Wipe down light fixtures and baseboards. Don’t forget any furniture or decor in these areas.
• Doors & Locks: Clean the front door, door handles, and ensure all locks are functioning. If necessary, wipe down the doorbell and doorframe, which can collect dirt and fingerprints.

Finishing Touches: Small Details That Make a Big Difference

Once you’ve tackled the main cleaning tasks in each room, it’s time to focus on the smaller details that can make a big difference. These finishing touches help ensure that your apartment looks as polished as possible, showing that you’ve put in the effort to leave it in excellent condition. Here’s a closer look at the areas that often get overlooked but can make a significant impact.

Air Vents & Light Fixtures

Air vents and light fixtures are often some of the most neglected areas during a move-out clean. Dust can build up quickly, and dirty light fixtures can make your apartment look darker and less inviting. Here’s how to give them a fresh look:

• Air Vents: Use a microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a brush attachment to gently clean air vents. Dust and dirt can easily accumulate in these areas, especially if you’ve been running your heater or air conditioner frequently. If the vents are particularly grimy, a damp cloth with a little dish soap can help lift the dirt.
• Light Fixtures: Wipe down all ceiling fans, chandeliers, light bulbs, and lamps. Use a step stool or ladder if necessary to reach higher fixtures. For light bulbs, you can clean them gently with a microfiber cloth to remove dust and ensure they shine bright. If any light fixtures are particularly dirty or have accumulated grease, consider using a glass cleaner or all-purpose cleaner for a sparkling finish.

Closets

It’s easy to forget about closets, but they play a big part in how the apartment looks at move-out. A well-organized closet shows that you’ve taken the time to leave every space clean. Here’s what to focus on:

• Shelves & Interior: Wipe down the shelves inside the closet, removing any dust, lint, or leftover items. Be sure to clean the closet rod, as it can accumulate dust over time.
• Floor: Vacuum or sweep the closet floor, paying close attention to corners where dust and dirt may have accumulated. If your closet has carpeting, consider renting a carpet cleaner for a deeper clean.
• Emptying Leftover Items: Make sure there’s nothing left behind. Even a forgotten hanger or old shoe can make the space look cluttered. Take time to remove all personal items, including any dust or items tucked away in storage bins.

Touch Up Walls

Walls can easily have stains, scuff marks, and small holes during your time living in the apartment. A quick touch-up can make the apartment look like it’s been freshly painted and well-designed. Here’s how to handle this:

• Scuff Marks & Smudges: Use a magic eraser or a damp cloth with mild soap to clean any marks or smudges. For stubborn marks, lightly scrub the area until clean.
• Small Holes: If you’ve hung pictures or other items, you may have small nail holes. Use touch-up paint or a wall filler to patch them up. Be sure to match the wall color exactly or use a neutral shade if the exact color isn’t available.
• General Cleaning: Wipe down the entire surface of the walls with a dry cloth to remove any dust or cobwebs. This step will also help to highlight any marks that might need attention.

Final Walkthrough & Inspection

Once you’ve finished cleaning, it’s time for the final walkthrough. This is your last chance to make sure everything is spotless before handing over the keys. Here’s what to do:

• Do a Last-Minute Inspection: Step back and look at the whole apartment. Check each room carefully, making sure every surface is clean and that you’ve done everything on your checklist. This is your last chance to catch anything you may have missed.
• Double-Check the Lease Agreement: Look over your lease one last time to make sure you’re meeting any specific cleaning requirements from your landlord. Some leases may ask for professional carpet cleaning or certain products. Checking this will prevent surprises at your final inspection. You want to avoid any additional expenses due to not knowing the agreement.
• Take Photos: Before you leave, take clear photos of every room, focusing on areas you cleaned or repaired. This will protect you in case there’s a dispute about your security deposit. 

By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure a smooth move-out and set yourself up to get your security deposit back. A little extra attention now will help you move on with confidence and ease.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Move-Out

Cleaning your apartment before you move out doesn’t have to be stressful. Here are some simple tips to make it easier:

1. Plan ahead: Don’t wait until the last minute. Set aside a whole day to clean before you move. Starting early gives you enough time to finish without feeling rushed.
2. Get help: Cleaning is quicker and more fun with someone else. Ask a friend or family member to help. They can assist with heavy lifting or tough spots, making the job easier.
3. Stay organized: Make a list of everything that needs cleaning, and check off tasks as you go. You can also focus on one room at a time to stay on track.

Happy Apartment Cleaning!

A clean apartment is essential not only for getting your security deposit back, but also for leaving a good impression with your landlord or future tenants. With this checklist, you can confidently tackle your move-out cleaning and ensure that your space is spotless from top to bottom. Remember, a little extra effort now can save you time and stress later.

Still looking for your perfect apartment?

While considering where to move, check out these locations that pay you to relocate!

Related posts:

Learn how to attract and keep millennial residents! 3D Tours for Lease-Ups: Showcasing Apartments Before They’re Built with Virtual Tours! Resident Pool Party Ideas for Apartment Communities Benefits of Living in Luxury Apartments

Categorised in: For Property Managers, For Renters

This post was written by Isabella Housel

Isabella Housel is a passionate and versatile professional writer with a deep love for words and a commitment to crafting compelling content that engages, informs, and inspires. With many years of experience in the industry, she has honed her skills across various genres, from creative storytelling to informative articles and technical documentation.