The Ultimate Move Out Cleaning Checklist For Tenants
What is a move out? It’s another junction to stay on the track of life, it’s a step ahead to achieve the goals somebody has dreamt of. So, in order to move ahead safely, there are a few things to take care of, and leaving the space clean is one of them, but why is it so important? Let’s find out!
The following move out cleaning checklist is professionally established to ensure proper guidance to the reader especially for those who’re planning a move out in near future. So, take out the notes, grab some snacks and let’s get started!
Heading Up Straight - Comprehensive Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
When moving out, ensuring a thorough clean can help you get your full security deposit back and leave the property in excellent condition for the next tenants. Here's a detailed guide on tackling each cleaning task effectively:
1. Shine Mirrors
It’s rightly said that mirrors can reflect anything, so do the first spots if left behind. It is recommended to mix equal amounts of white vinegar and distilled water in a spray bottle. Spray it on the mirrors and then wipe with a microfiber cloth in circular movements to avoid formation of streaks on the mirrors. This not only cleans but also dries the mirrors which provide a non-streaky look and makes the room look lighter and brighter.
2. Web Removal
They mostly form in corners and ceilings, and may be hard to detect especially when there is no need for cleaning. This is especially applicable when it is time to gather dust from the corners of the rooms, which may be hard to reach using a normal duster. Move the broom across the walls and the edges of the space and across the ceiling to ensure that any spider webs which are present are cleared out, which makes the area more welcoming.
3. Cabinet Care
Remove all items out of the cabinets and clean the shelves and walls of each cabinet with a solution of mild soap and warm water. Do not forget to clean handles and doors, they are the most used parts in any home. For more caked on residues or particularly tenacious stains, a paste made out of three parts baking soda to one part water will work well. This does not only wash but also eliminate the unpleasant smell of the cabinets, hence making them fit for the next user.
4. Toilet Sanitization
For the inner surface, apply a few drops of toilet bowl cleaner and let it stay for 5 minutes and then scrub it with the toilet brush. Clean the outer part of the device, such as the chair, the top cover, and the last part of the base using a clean cloth or by rubbing alcohol.
This step is important especially in a bathroom and it will help in minimizing the spread of germs.
5. Floor Vacuuming
You can either place this step at the first place or at the end depending on your comfort and requirements. Vacuuming includes all the carpeted areas and rugs to decrease the volume of first and debris. Remember to take special attention to the edges and areas of the carpet that are not high touch areas like the areas hidden under the furniture.
For more cleaning, consider using a carpet cleaner, or hiring a professional carpet cleaning services if the carpet has become too dirty.
6. Window Washing
For the windows, prepare a cleaning solution: One part vinegar and ten parts warm water. To clean the glass, one can use a sponge or a squeegee while frames and sills should be wiped with a wet cloth only. It is also important not to overlook cleaning the tracks that are usually located at the bottom side of the windows with a small brush or vacuum cleaner.
7. Tub and Shower Cleanse
During shower and tub cleaning, it is recommended to use a strong bathroom cleaner. Pour it on the surface and let it act for 5-10 minutes or as required to dissolve soap scum and limescale that may have settled on the surface and then wash it with warm water and then wipe the surface gently with a soft broom or cloth. Do not allow the water to dry up on the surface because this will result in water spots; rather wipe off the surface.
8. Floor Mopping
For floors that are other than carpeted, the cleaning solution should be a mix of hot water and a general all purpose cleaner. In this case while cleaning the floor especially when cleaning the wooden floor, you should use a cleaner that is meant for floor Wooden floor cleaners. Clean the floors, especially the tiled ones regularly, and change the water when it becomes dirty in order to prevent the formation of the dirty floor film.
9. Scrub Showers and Bathtubs
Although we take care of cleaning the bathtubs and showers regularly, it requires specific attention when you’re planning to move out. Sometimes, tough stains are hard to remove from the bathtub surface. So it is advisable to utilize a detergent powder to scrub off the spots.
This is in light of the fact that as time progresses dust and dirt often settle in the air vents and filters thus affecting the quality of the air as well as the efficiency of any related systems. Initially, use a vacuum with a brush end to suck the dust within the vent covers.
10. Clean the Door Handles and The Light Switches
These are fixtures that are frequently touched but not cleaned very often as a part of general cleaning. Sanitize all the handles of the doors and the switches of the lights and other objects that are easily touched by a wet wipe, or by a mixture of water and a disinfectant. This helps in making certain that all possible areas of transferring germs are cleaned and sanitized for the use of the next users.
11. Detail Cleaning for Appliances
In addition to using the wipes to clean the surfaces, take some time to clean those appliances thoroughly. This involves removing food particles that accumulate at the back of the freezer, scrubbing and cleaning the racks and the drip pans of the stove, and cleaning the interior of the dishwasher. For washing machines, use hot water and vinegar to wash a cycle to clean the drum and provide a fresh scent.
12. Refresh Walls and Baseboards
Wall and baseboard stains can be a real eyesore, making a room appear shabby and well-worn. Using a piece of clean cloth that has been slightly wet with water and a mild soap wash for more rigorous stains, wipe the walls gently. Avoid touching painted objects as this leads to damage of the paintwork. Dust the baseboards and wipe it with damp cloth with soap then carefully scrub it in the corners or edges where dust can accumulate.
What Else Is Required For A Safe Move Out?
Cleaning is just one of the many steps that are involved when a tenant is preparing to move out. Here are other crucial measures to take that will facilitate this process and can help protect your security deposit in the process.
Return All Keys
There is a necessity to bring all the keys that belong to the property. These can be replaced, though it is an expensive process and it is easily possible to overlook such a detail. It is recommended that you set a particular date to meet your landlord and return all the keys in a bid not to leave any with the landlord.
Remove All Your Stuff
Make sure that all your things, especially those that may be too big to be taken in one hand are removed from the house. If you leave anything behind, the landlord may have to employ somebody to come and remove it, then charge it on your security deposit. It also clears out entirely, making it possible that the final inspection is specifically touching on the state of the property and not cleaning.
Complete a Move-Out Inspection
Once you have moved out and done the cleaning, it is recommended to meet your landlord and go through the house one more time. This is the right time to bring back the keys and also express your concerns or complaints on any damages and the state of the property. It is also the chance to solve any issues or disputes, including the return of your security deposit in question.
Take Photos
It is therefore important to take photographs of the apartment both at the time of moving in, and out. This is especially helpful incase there are disputes between the two parties on the state of the house when you are leaving for good. These photos can shield you from petty accusations from the landlord and can prove invaluable should a dispute arise on the state of the house on the day of check out.
Calling Professional Move Out Cleaners - A Sigh of Relief
Hiring professional move-out cleaners can offer a significant advantage during the stressful process of moving. Professionals are equipped with the tools and expertise to handle deep cleaning tasks quickly and efficiently, ensuring that every corner of your rental meets the highest standards.
This not only saves you time and energy but also helps secure your full security deposit by addressing all cleaning details that might be overlooked otherwise. For many, the cost of hiring a service is well worth the peace of mind and the potential to avoid disputes over cleaning issues during the final inspection.
Conclusion
It is important to note that following the following guide can go a long way in helping you achieve the best outcome and leave your rental home in the best condition. From wiping every corner possible to dealing with paperwork with your landlord, each stage is equally essential in order to protect yourself and your security deposit while building a favorable rental history.
Ready to guarantee your move-out cleaning is nothing short of perfect? Contact ServiceFinders today for professional cleaning services that promise peace of mind and a spotless finish as you transition from your old home to your new one.
