Knowing exactly what a move-out cleaning includes is crucial because it affects both your wallet and your peace of mind.
At Distinguished Manor House Cleaning, we've spent 18 years perfecting the art of the move-out clean.
Based on our extensive experience, this guide breaks down everything a standard move-out cleaning includes, room by room, so you can approach this task with confidence and efficiency.
What Does a Move-Out Cleaning Typically Include?
A standard move-out cleaning typically includes the following, categorized by common areas of your house:
1. Kitchen: (This area often requires the most time and effort.)
Cabinets & Drawers: Cleaning inside and outside.
Countertops & Backsplashes: Scrubbing to remove stains and grime.
Oven: Deep cleaning, including removing baked-on food and grease.
Refrigerator: Cleaning inside and out, removing leftover food, and cleaning the coils.
Dishwasher: Cleaning and sanitizing.
Sink & Faucet: Cleaning and removing hard water stains.
Floors: Sweeping and mopping.
2. Bathrooms:
Toilets, Sinks & Showers/Tubs: Scrubbing to remove soap scum, hard water stains, and toilet rings.
Mirrors & Fixtures: Cleaning and polishing.
Cabinets & Drawers: Cleaning inside and out.
Floors: Sweeping and mopping.
3. Bedrooms:
All Surfaces: Dusting, including light fixtures, shelves, and baseboards.
Floors: Vacuuming or mopping.
Closets & Drawers: Cleaning inside.
Window Sills & Frames: Wiping down.
4. Living Areas (Living Room, Dining Room, Family Room, etc.):
All Surfaces: Dusting, including light fixtures, shelves, and baseboards.
Floors: Vacuuming or mopping.
Window Sills & Frames: Wiping down.
5. Other Areas (Hallways, Entryways, Stairs, Laundry/Utility Rooms):
Hallways & Entryways: Cleaning.
Stairs: Sweeping or vacuuming.
Laundry/Utility Areas: Cleaning.
Trash & Debris: Removal from all areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Move-Out Cleaning:
How long does a move-out cleaning take?
A standard move-out cleaning for a 2,000 sq ft home typically takes between 3-5 hours for a team of two cleaners. However, this is just an estimate. The actual time can vary based on several factors, including the size of the property, its condition, and the level of cleaning required.
A smaller apartment might only take 2-3 hours, while a larger, heavily soiled house could take a full day or more. We always recommend a walkthrough to assess your specific needs and provide a more accurate time estimate.
2. What cleaning supplies should I use?
All-purpose cleaner for general surface cleaning
Bathroom cleaner targeting soap scum and hard water
Glass cleaner for streak-free windows and mirrors
Floor cleaner suitable for your specific flooring type (hardwood, tile, laminate)
Sponges, microfiber cloths, and scrub brushes for effective grime removal
Reliable vacuum cleaner and mop for floor maintenance
Additional supplies for tough cleaning tasks:
Oven cleaner
Degreaser
Trash bags
Cleaning gloves for hand protection
Having a well-stocked cleaning kit ensures a smoother and more efficient cleaning process.
3. Can I skip certain areas if they look clean?
While it might be tempting to skip areas that appear clean, we strongly recommend cleaning everything thoroughly. Even seemingly clean areas can harbor dust, grime, and allergens.
Landlords and buyers have high expectations for move-out cleanliness, and overlooking even small details can lead to issues. It’s best to be thorough and ensure everything is sparkling.
Why is a Move-Out Cleaning Important?
A thorough move-out cleaning is important for several key reasons:
Getting Your Security Deposit Back: If you’re renting, a clean home is often a requirement for receiving your full security deposit back. Landlords use this money to cover any damages beyond normal wear and tear, and a dirty home can be considered damage.
Maintaining a Positive Reputation: Leaving a clean home is simply good etiquette. It shows respect for the next occupants and maintains a positive reputation with your landlord or realtor.
Attracting Buyers (If Selling): If you’re selling your home, a sparkling clean space makes a great first impression on potential buyers. It shows that the home has been well-cared for.
Stress-Less Move: By taking care of the cleaning beforehand, you can focus on other aspects of your move and avoid last-minute scrambling.
When to Consider Professional Help:
Cleaning an entire home can be a big task, especially during the already stressful moving process. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service if:
You’re short on time.
You have a large or particularly dirty property.
You’re feeling overwhelmed by the task.
You want to ensure you get your full security deposit back.
At Distinguished Manor House Cleaning, we specialize in move-out cleaning services for East Valley cities in Arizona.
Our team handles everything on the checklist (and more!) to ensure a spotless and sanitary home for the next occupant.
With our professional touch, you’ll get that gleaming, “brand-new” feeling without lifting a finger.
Final Words:
A move-out cleaning is an essential part of any move. Whether you tackle it yourself or leave it to the experts, taking the time to thoroughly clean your property can save you money, reduce stress, and make the transition to your new home smoother.
Ready to make your move stress-free? Contact the Distinguished Manor House Cleaning team to take care of the cleaning so you can focus on settling into your next chapter.
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