Move Out Cleaning Made Simple: Quick Tips to Get Your Deposit Back

Moving out is stressful enough without worrying about a messy flat. A good cleaning routine can save you money, time, and a nasty dispute with your landlord. Below you’ll find the steps that make the job easy and the spots you should never skip.

Essential Move Out Cleaning Checklist

Grab a notebook or your phone and tick these items as you go. The list is ordered from top‑to‑bottom so you don’t waste effort cleaning a surface only to dirty it later.

1. Dust and wipe every surface. Start with ceiling fans, light fixtures, and high shelves. A damp cloth followed by a dry microfiber rag removes cobwebs and accumulated dust.

2. Clean the kitchen. Empty all cupboards, wipe down shelves, and scrub the inside of the oven and microwave. Use a mix of baking soda and water for baked‑on grease – it’s cheap and effective. Don’t forget the fridge; remove food, clean the shelves, and leave the door ajar to dry.

3. Tackle the bathrooms. Scrub the toilet, shower, and sink with a strong cleaner. Pay extra attention to grout lines; a paste of baking soda and vinegar lifts mould. Polish mirrors with a dry microfiber cloth for a streak‑free shine.

4. Floors and carpets. Sweep or vacuum first, then mop hard floors with a mild floor cleaner. For wall‑to‑wall carpet, a quick steam clean or a professional carpet service can remove deep stains that might cost you extra.

5. Windows and doors. Wash windows inside and out with a vinegar solution, then dry with a lint‑free cloth. Wipe door frames and handles – they collect a lot of grime.

6. Remove trash and personal items. Take out all rubbish, discard expired food, and pack up anything you’re leaving behind. A clean, empty space looks larger and impresses the landlord.

Once you finish each room, walk through the flat with the checklist in hand. If anything feels off, give it another quick swipe.

When to Call Professional Cleaners

DIY works for most places, but there are situations where a pro can save you cash in the long run. If you see heavy carpet stains, stubborn oven grease, or you simply lack time, a professional service like Dandy Fox can handle the grunt work quickly.

Pros have equipment that reaches deep into carpet fibers and can pull grime out of tile grout without damaging surfaces. They also know the cleaning standards landlords expect, which reduces the risk of a deposit deduction.

Getting a quote is easy – just give them a quick rundown of the property size and any problem spots. Most companies offer a “move out” package that includes kitchen, bathroom, floors, and window cleaning for one flat‑rate price.

In summary, start with the checklist, focus on high‑traffic areas, and decide if a professional service makes sense for your schedule and budget. Follow these steps and you’ll walk out of your old home with confidence and a full deposit.