The Ultimate Move-Out Cleaning Guide

Moving out comes with a long to-do list, and one of the most important things to check off is leaving the place clean. A spotless apartment isn’t just about getting that security deposit back, it’s also about leaving on good terms and making things easier for the next person moving in.

Deep cleaning an entire apartment might feel like a lot, but breaking it down into smaller steps makes it way more manageable. This guide walks you through everything, room by room, so you don’t miss anything.

1. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Before diving in, make sure you have everything you need. Running back and forth for supplies only slows things down. Here’s a basic list:

• All-purpose cleaner
• Glass cleaner
• Baking soda and vinegar
• Magic erasers or sponges
• Microfiber cloths
• Mop and bucket
• Vacuum cleaner
• Broom and dustpan
• Trash bags
• Rubber gloves

With everything ready to go, it’s time to start cleaning.

2. Start with the Kitchen

The kitchen tends to be one of the dirtiest places, thanks to grease, food spills, and appliances that haven’t been cleaned in a while.

Appliances

• Refrigerator – Empty it completely, then wipe down all shelves and drawers. Use a mix of warm water and baking soda to remove stains or odors. Don’t forget to clean the top and behind it if you can move it.
• Oven & Stove – If there’s baked-on grime, apply an oven cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit for a bit before scrubbing. Wipe down burners, knobs, and the range hood.
• Microwave – Place a bowl of water with lemon slices inside and heat it for a couple of minutes. The steam helps loosen grime, making it easy to wipe down.
• Dishwasher – Run an empty cycle with vinegar to remove buildup.

Cabinets & Counters

• Empty all cabinets and wipe them.
• Check for sticky spots and clean them with warm soapy water.
• Disinfect countertops and backsplashes.

Sink & Floors

• Scrub the sink with baking soda and vinegar.
• Sweep and mop the floors, making sure to get into the corners.

3. Move to the Bathrooms

Bathrooms collect soap scum, hard water stains, and dust, so giving them a deep clean makes a huge difference.

Shower & Tub

• Spray everything with a bathroom cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
• Use a vinegar and baking soda mixture for tougher stains.
• Clean the showerhead by soaking it in a plastic bag filled with vinegar overnight.

Toilet & Sink

• Scrub the toilet inside and out. Don’t forget behind the base.
• Clean the sink and faucet, wiping away toothpaste residue and soap scum.
• Wipe down the mirror with glass cleaner for a streak-free shine.

Floors & Extras

• Mop the floor, paying attention to corners.
• Wipe down any shelves, towel racks, and cabinet doors.

4. Clean the Living Room & Bedrooms

These areas may not seem dirty at first, but once you move furniture, you’ll probably find dust, crumbs, and maybe even a missing sock or two.

Dust Everything

• Wipe down shelves, baseboards, and window sills.
• Use a damp cloth to clean light switches and door handles.

Windows & Blinds

• Spray windows with glass cleaner and wipe until streak-free.
• Dust blinds or wash curtains if needed.

Floors & Carpets

• Vacuum carpets thoroughly, going over high-traffic areas multiple times.
• If there are stains, try using a carpet cleaner or spot treatment.
• Sweep and mop hard floors, getting into the corners and under furniture.

5. Don’t Forget the Closets & Storage Areas

Closets and storage spaces tend to collect dust and forgotten items.

• Remove everything and wipe down shelves and walls.
• Check for scuff marks on the walls and use a magic eraser to clean them up.
• Vacuum the floor and corners.

6. Handle the Small Details

With the big areas done, it’s time to tackle the little things that are easy to overlook but make a big difference.

• Walls & Doors – Look for scuff marks and clean them up.
• Light Fixtures & Ceiling Fans – Dust these and wipe down any grime.
• Vents & Air Filters – Remove dust buildup for better air quality.
• Trash & Leftover Items – Take out all trash and double-check for anything left behind.

7. One Final Walkthrough

Before calling it done, walk through the apartment one last time. Open cabinets, check under sinks, and look behind doors to make sure everything is truly clean.

If possible, take pictures of the space for your records—especially if you’re expecting your security deposit back.

Once you’re happy with how everything looks, you’re officially ready to turn in the keys and move on to your next place.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning before moving out doesn’t have to be stressful. Breaking it down into sections makes it easier to tackle, and in the end, it’s worth the effort—both for your deposit and for leaving the space in good shape. With a little planning, you’ll walk away knowing you left the apartment spotless and ready for whatever’s next.