A Landlord-Approved Guide to Spotless Transition Cleaning
Moving out is stressful enough without worrying about losing your security deposit over cleaning issues. Most deposit deductions stem from inadequate cleaning – but not yours! This professional move-out cleaning checklist covers every detail landlords and property managers inspect, ensuring you leave the property in better condition than you found it.
🕒 Pre-Cleaning Preparation (30 Minutes)
- Gather all cleaning supplies in a caddy
- Perform a quick walkthrough to identify problem areas
- Put on comfortable clothes and cleaning gloves
- Open windows for ventilation
- Set up a music playlist or podcast for motivation
🚪 Living Room & Bedrooms (60-90 Minutes)
Walls & Surfaces
- Remove all cobwebs from corners and ceilings
- Wipe down walls starting from top to bottom
- Clean light switches and electrical outlets
- Dust and wipe door frames, doors, and handles
- Remove any scuff marks with a magic eraser
- Clean windowsills and window tracks
Windows & Lighting
- Clean interior windows and mirrors
- Dust and wipe down all light fixtures
- Replace any burnt-out bulbs
- Clean ceiling fan blades (top and bottom)
Storage Areas
- Empty and wipe all closets and shelves
- Vacuum closet floors thoroughly
- Wipe down baseboards throughout
Floors
- Move furniture and vacuum/mop underneath
- Spot clean any carpet stains
- Vacuum all carpets thoroughly
- Mop hard surface floors
🍳 Kitchen Deep Clean (90-120 Minutes)
Appliances
- Refrigerator:
- Remove all shelves and drawers
- Wash with warm soapy water
- Wipe interior and exterior surfaces
- Clean rubber door seals
- Vacuum condenser coils (if accessible)
- Defrost freezer if needed
- Oven & Stove:
- Clean oven interior (use oven cleaner if needed)
- Remove and clean stove grates and burners
- Wipe down control panel and knobs
- Clean range hood and filter
- Dishwasher:
- Remove and clean filter
- Wipe interior and door seals
- Run empty cycle with vinegar
- Microwave:
- Clean interior and turntable
- Wipe exterior and control panel
Cabinets & Countertops
- Empty and wipe all cabinet interiors
- Clean cabinet fronts and handles
- Scrub countertops and backsplash
- Clean and disinfect sink and faucet
- Remove any water stains
Final Touches
- Wipe down small appliances
- Clean under the sink area
- Take out all trash and recycling
🚿 Bathroom Intensive Clean (60 Minutes)
Shower & Tub
- Scrub tiles and grout
- Clean shower doors or curtain
- Remove soap scum from surfaces
- Clean showerhead and faucets
- Wash shower/tub walls and floor
Toilet & Sink
- Scrub toilet inside and out (including base)
- Clean sink, faucet, and drain
- Polish mirror and fixtures
- Wipe down vanity and storage
Finishing
- Clean exhaust fan and vent
- Wash bathroom rugs and mats
- Empty and wipe medicine cabinet
- Mop floor thoroughly
🔍 Final Walkthrough (30 Minutes)
Inspection Points
- Check all rooms for missed spots
- Ensure all personal items are removed
- Verify all appliances are clean and functional
- Confirm all surfaces are dust-free
- Check that windows are locked
- Make sure all trash is removed from property
Pro Tips for Success
- Take before and after photos
- Use natural light to spot missed areas
- Have a friend do a final inspection
- Keep cleaning receipts as proof of service
