When you have to move out of a rental property, it is not only about packing boxes and handing over the keys to your landlord. You also need to clean up your property thoroughly, so that you can maximize your chances of getting back your security deposit.
Whether you plan to clean up everything on your own or hire move out cleaning Eugene OR professionals, it is a good idea to follow this detailed checklist so that you can manage to clean up all the areas properly, forgetting nothing.
Start With an Empty Property
It is best to start cleaning up after all, or most, of your stuff have been removed. When the rooms are empty, it can be easier for you to access corners, closets, cabinets, floors and all those areas that were previously occupied by furniture items.
You should walk through the whole rental property first. Look for any stains, marks, accumulated dust or areas that need additional cleaning attention. You have to gather:
- Cleaning supplies,
- Trash bags,
- Microfiber cloths,
- A vacuum,
- Mop, and
- Appropriate surface cleaners
Clean the Kitchen Thoroughly
Before you leave your property, you have to clean up your kitchen thoroughly. Remember to wipe:
- Countertops,
- Backsplashes,
- Cabinet doors,
- Handles, and
- Shelves
It is essential to clean the insides of drawers and cabinets. You have to get rid of crumbs and accumulated debris.
After removing all food items, you have to clean your refrigerator and freezer properly. Wipe the drawers, shelves and interior surfaces. Leave the appliances just as per the instructions of the rental agreement that you signed with your landlord.
You need to pay attention to the stovetop, microwave, oven and other important appliances that you got with your rental property. Remove food residue and grease, wherever possible. Finish the process by cleaning the kitchen floor and scrubbing the sink.
Give Bathrooms Extra Attention
You have to remove soap residue, grime and buildup from your bathrooms. Clean your toilet inside and outside, including the area around the base. Scrub the shower walls, bathtub, shower fixtures and tiles.
Make sure that your sinks and faucets are cleaned up thoroughly. Then polish all the glass surfaces, such as mirrors. After removing all your personal belongings, you need to wipe your bathroom cabinets and shelves. Empty your trash bins. Finish the process by sweeping and mopping your floor surfaces.
Refresh Bedrooms and Living Spaces
Once you have taken out your belongings and furniture items, vacuum your carpets with care. Pay special attention to closets, corners and areas that were once covered beneath your furniture items. Use appropriate products to sweep and mop your hard floor surfaces.
Do not forget to dust your:
- Window sills,
- Ceiling fans,
- Light fixtures,
- Shelves,
- Doors, and
- Other important surfaces
You have to remove cobwebs from your ceilings and corners. Wipe all the oft-touched surfaces, such as handles and light switches.
Don’t Forget Walls, Doors and Windows
Walls can collect fingerprints, dust, and small marks during everyday living. Check the rental agreement before attempting to remove marks or make repairs, as certain cleaning products can damage paint.
Clean doors, door frames, handles, and trim. If permitted and appropriate, clean interior windows, glass panes, and window sills. Remove visible dirt from window tracks as well.
Check Closets and Storage Areas
While moving out of a rental property, it is easy to overlook the closets. But you should not do so. Remove all your personal items from the closets. Check the floors, corners and shelves for dust or debris. Mop or vacuum your closet floor and wipe all the shelves that you can access.
You have to do the same thing for your storage rooms, cupboards, laundry areas and all other spaces that are part of your leased rental property.
Once you have cleaned up everything, inspect your property for a final time to make sure nothing is left behind to clean. With a comprehensive checklist, you can complete your move-out confidently and have the most chances of getting back your security deposit without any issue.
