What are the top cleaning tasks to tackle before moving out of a rental property?
Posted on 24/07/2024
Moving out of a rental property can be a stressful and overwhelming process, especially when it comes to the daunting task of cleaning. Not only do you have to worry about packing and organizing your belongings, but you also have to leave the property in pristine condition for the next tenant or for your security deposit to be returned. To save yourself from last-minute panic and potential deductions from your deposit, it is crucial to tackle these top cleaning tasks before moving out of a rental property.
1. Deep Clean the Kitchen
The kitchen is often the heart of a home and one of the most frequently used areas, which means it can accumulate a lot of dirt and grime over time. Start by removing all items from cabinets and drawers, wiping them down, and organizing them neatly. Scrub down the countertops, sink, appliances (inside and out), and backsplash with a disinfectant cleaner. Don't forget to clean the oven, microwave, and refrigerator thoroughly, as well as emptying and cleaning out the drip trays from under appliances.
2. Thoroughly Clean Bathrooms
One area that often gets overlooked during regular cleaning is the bathroom. However, this is one space that must be left spotless before moving out. Clean toilets inside and out using a disinfectant cleaner and let it sit while you tackle other areas. Scrub down the shower/tub walls, doors, faucets, showerhead, and soap dish thoroughly. Wipe down mirrors with glass cleaner, clean the sinks and countertops, and mop or scrub the floors.
3. Dust Every Surface
Dust can settle on every surface in your home over time, so don't overlook this important step when moving out. Use a microfiber cloth or dusting spray to wipe down all surfaces like windowsills, baseboards, shelves, blinds/curtains, light fixtures/ceiling fans, etc. Make sure to also dust off any furniture, including the tops and underneath if applicable.
4. Clean Carpets and Floors
Carpets are notorious for attracting dirt, stains, and odors, making them one of the top cleaning tasks to tackle before moving out. If you have carpets, either hire a professional carpet cleaning service or rent a carpet cleaner and do it yourself. For hardwood, tile, or laminate floors, sweep or vacuum thoroughly, mop using the appropriate cleaner, and pay special attention to any scuff marks or stains.
5. Don't Forget about the Walls
Walls may not seem like they need cleaning, but over time they can accumulate dust, fingerprints, marks, and even pet hair. Use a magic eraser or gentle soap and water solution to wipe down walls (especially in high traffic areas) and remove any blemishes. If there are any nail holes or larger damages like scratches or chips on walls or baseboards, make sure to repair them before moving out.
6. Clear Out Any Junk
Moving out is the perfect opportunity to get rid of any junk that has accumulated over time. Donate items that are in good condition but you no longer need/use and dispose of anything that is broken or damaged beyond repair. This will not only help with your move but also leave the property clean and clutter-free.
Pros: By tackling these top cleaning tasks before moving out of a rental property, you can ensure that you leave the property in excellent condition and increase your chances of getting your security deposit back in full. It also helps create a good impression for future tenants.
Cons: Cleaning can be time-consuming and physically demanding, especially when trying to juggle it with packing and moving. It may also require purchasing specific cleaning products if you don't already have them on hand.
Tips:
- Start early: Cleaning takes longer than you think, so give yourself plenty of time to get everything done.
- Involve family/friends: Enlist the help of family or friends to make the process more manageable.
- Hire professionals: If you are short on time or need assistance with certain tasks like carpet cleaning, consider hiring professionals.
- Create a checklist: Make a list of all the areas and tasks that need to be cleaned to ensure you don't miss anything.
- Clean room by room: Tackle one room at a time to avoid getting overwhelmed.
Takeaways:
- Deep clean the kitchen and bathrooms
- Dust every surface and clean carpets/floors
- Don't forget about walls and clear out any junk
- Start early, get help if needed, and create a checklist.
Conclusion:
Cleaning your rental property before moving out may seem like an arduous task, but it is essential for leaving on good terms with your landlord and getting your deposit back. By following these top cleaning tasks and tips, you can make the process more manageable and ensure that you leave the property in excellent condition. So, make sure to prioritize cleaning before moving out to ease your transition and avoid any issues with your landlord.
