Posted: March 19, 2025

How to Prepare for a Move-Out Cleaning: A Comprehensive Guide by Priority Cleans

Moving can be an exciting yet stressful process. Whether you’re moving into a new home or apartment, or simply transitioning to a new chapter of your life, there’s one thing you should never overlook—cleaning your old space. A move-out cleaning not only helps you get your security deposit back but also ensures that your old place is left in pristine condition for its next occupants. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare for a move-out cleaning, brought to you by Priority Cleans.

1. Start Early to Avoid Stress

The sooner you start preparing for your move-out cleaning, the better. Ideally, begin the process at least a week before your moving date. This gives you time to declutter, pack, and handle any repairs before diving into the cleaning process.

2. Declutter Before You Clean

The first step to preparing for a move-out cleaning is decluttering. Before you start scrubbing and wiping down surfaces, clear out any remaining belongings, furniture, or trash.

Go room by room, checking all cabinets, closets, and drawers.
Donate or throw away items you no longer need.
Pack up everything that’s still left and get rid of boxes or packing materials once they’re no longer necessary.

Decluttering helps ensure you don’t have to clean around objects, making the process smoother and more efficient.

3. Handle Minor Repairs

Before cleaning, take care of any minor repairs in the home. Fixing up things like nail holes in the wall, replacing light bulbs, or touching up scuffed areas can make a huge difference in the final appearance of the space.

Fill in holes from nails or screws and repaint areas that need it.
Tighten any loose door handles or faucets.
Replace damaged or missing tiles if necessary.

A clean, well-maintained space will not only look better but may also increase your chances of receiving your full security deposit back.

4. Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

When it comes to move-out cleaning, you’ll need the right tools and supplies. Make sure you have everything on hand before you start. Some essential items include:

All-purpose cleaner
Glass cleaner
Disinfectant wipes or sprays
Microfiber cloths
Sponges and scrub brushes
A mop and broom
Vacuum cleaner
Garbage bags

Consider using environmentally friendly cleaning products to keep your old place looking fresh while being mindful of the planet!

5. Focus on High-Traffic Areas

When cleaning for a move-out, certain areas tend to need more attention than others. Be sure to give special focus to the following:

Kitchens: Clean all appliances, including the oven, refrigerator, and microwave. Don’t forget to wipe down counters, cabinets, and the sink. Make sure there are no crumbs or food remnants left behind.
Bathrooms: Scrub toilets, sinks, and showers or tubs thoroughly. Clean mirrors, counters, and wipe down any other surfaces. Make sure to remove soap scum or water spots from faucets and glass doors.
Floors: Vacuum and mop floors in all rooms, paying special attention to high-traffic areas. If the carpets are stained, consider hiring a professional cleaning service for carpet cleaning.
Windows: Clean windows inside and out. If you have window blinds or curtains, give them a good cleaning or replace them if they’re damaged.

6. Don’t Forget the Little Details

While it’s easy to focus on the big areas, it’s the little things that can make a big difference during a move-out cleaning. Pay attention to:

Light switches and door handles (these can accumulate grime and fingerprints).
Baseboards, which are often overlooked but can accumulate dust and dirt.
Air vents and ceiling fans, which can gather dust and need a good wipe-down.
The insides of cabinets and drawers—wipe down all surfaces, even those that aren’t typically seen.

7. Hire a Professional Cleaning Service

If you want to ensure that every inch of your home is spotless without spending hours of your time, hiring a professional cleaning service like Priority Cleans can be a lifesaver. Our expert cleaning teams are trained to handle move-out cleanings, paying attention to all the details that make your home shine.

We bring the necessary tools, supplies, and expertise to get your old place in perfect condition—helping you focus on the next chapter in your life instead of cleaning every nook and cranny. Plus, hiring professionals can save you time, energy, and the risk of missing important areas.

8. Do a Final Walkthrough

Once your move-out cleaning is complete, do a final walkthrough to make sure nothing was missed. Check each room, including closets, cabinets, and storage areas, to ensure everything is spotless.

If you’re renting, take note of your landlord’s checklist and compare it to your cleaning efforts. This will give you peace of mind that you’ve done everything possible to get your full security deposit back.

Conclusion

Preparing for a move-out cleaning doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you approach it with a plan. Declutter, tackle repairs, and focus on the details. If you need a little extra help, consider professional cleaning services to ensure your old home is left in top condition. At Priority Cleans, we’re dedicated to helping you make your move seamless and stress-free.

For more information on our move-out cleaning services, visit our website or give us a call. We’re here to make your transition as smooth as possible!