Move Out Cleaning Tips for Renters and Must-Do Tasks

When the time comes to move out of a rental property, one essential task that you should never overlook is end-of-lease cleaning. Like in many other countries, in Australia landlords and property managers also expect tenants to leave the premises in the same clean and well-maintained condition as when they first moved in. The reasons for this are simple.

Firstly it’s only fair to pass on a well-maintained space to the next resident, just as it was given to you. Secondly, a thorough clean helps you secure the return of your security deposit and finally, by leaving the property in excellent condition, you maintain a positive rental history and increase your chances of obtaining good references for future rental applications.

So, if you:

• Are a tenant;
• Have a relocation coming up;
• Need moving out tips on how to do your end-of-lease cleaning in a stress-free way.

Then read along. This end of lease cleaning checklist will provide you with all the information you need.

Clear out all personal belongings and trash

Decluttering and removing all personal belongings and rubbish from the rental property should always be the first step in your end-of-lease cleaning checklist. This moving-out tip serves two purposes: it frees up space for the cleaning process, and it prevents you from bringing unnecessary items to your new place.

Decluttering can feel very liberating, as it allows you to let go of items you no longer need or use. Take the time to sort through your belongings and separate them into three categories: keep, donate/sell, and dispose of. This will help you streamline your possessions and ensure that you’re only moving items that truly have value or serve a purpose in your life.

By decluttering before the move, you’ll save time and effort during the cleaning process. Plus, it’s much easier to thoroughly clean a space when it’s not full of unnecessary items. Clearing out personal belongings and trash will also give you a clearer perspective on the condition of the property and any areas that require special attention.

Once you’ve decluttered and removed all personal belongings and trash, you’ll be ready to tackle the deep cleaning tasks outlined in the rest of the end-of-lease cleaning checklist.

Clean all surfaces thoroughly

Once you have decluttered and cleared out the personal belongings and trash from your rental property, it’s time to focus on cleaning all surfaces. This step is crucial for leaving the property in a spotless condition and ensuring the return of your security deposit. Here are some tips for cleaning surfaces effectively:

Remove any stains or marks on walls and floors

As you prepare for the final inspection and prepare to hopefully get your security deposit back, it’s essential to remove any stains or marks on the walls and floors of your rental property. These blemishes can significantly impact the overall appearance of the space. Here are some tips to help you tackle stains and marks effectively:

• Carpet stains – This is how to remove carpet stains before moving out – start by blotting the stain gently with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as it may cause it to spread or become embedded deeper in the carpet fibres. Next, use a carpet stain remover or a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water to treat the stain. Follow the product instructions or blot the stain gently with the soapy solution. Rinse the area with clean water and blot until dry. For tough stains, consider seeking professional carpet cleaning services.
• Wall stains – Here is your first wall-cleaning hack, always begin by testing a small inconspicuous area with your cleaning solution to ensure it doesn’t damage the paint. For common stains like food splatters or scuff marks, a gentle mixture of warm water and mild dish soap can be effective. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and gently dab or wipe the stain. Work your way from the outside in. Avoid excessive scrubbing, as it may damage the paint. For more stubborn stains, you may need to use a mild abrasive cleaner or baking soda paste. Remember to rinse the area with clean water and allow it to dry thoroughly after washing your wall.
• Floor marks – Different types of flooring require specific cleaning approaches. For hardwood floors, start by using a soft broom or vacuum cleaner to remove any loose dirt or debris. To address marks or scuffs, consider using a gentle hardwood floor cleaner and a soft cloth or mop. For laminate or vinyl flooring, you can use a mixture of warm water and a mild cleaner recommended for these types of surfaces. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid using excessive water, as it may damage the flooring.

Remember to consult your lease agreement and seek permission from your landlord before using any cleaning solutions or techniques that may affect the property’s surfaces.

Clean kitchen appliances, cabinets, and countertops

The kitchen is often the most challenging area to clean before relocating. From greasy stovetops to grimy oven interiors and sticky countertops, you need all the help you can get when doing your kitchen deep clean before moving out. A lot of people decide to hire professional services. However, If you prefer to tackle the kitchen cleaning yourself, use these tips to get started:

• Oven cleaning – Start by removing oven racks and wiping away loose debris. Use an oven cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to create a paste. Apply it to the interior surfaces of the oven. Let it sit for a while to loosen the grime, then scrub gently with a sponge or brush. Wipe away the residue and rinse thoroughly.
• Refrigerator and freezer cleaning – Empty the refrigerator and freezer, disposing of any expired or unwanted items. Remove shelves, drawers, and other removable parts and wash them with warm, soapy water. Wipe down the interior surfaces using a mixture of mild detergent and water. Pay attention when cleaning the seals and gaskets. They need to be completely free from dirt and grime.
• Cabinet and countertop cleaning – Wipe down the exterior of cabinets and drawers using a mild detergent and water solution. For stubborn stains, consider using a gentle cleaner suitable for the specific material of your cabinets. Similarly, clean countertops using a non-abrasive cleaner suitable for the surface material. Don’t forget to clean the backsplash, edges, and corners.

On the other hand, if you find the task overwhelming or simply don’t have enough time, maybe consider hiring a professional cleaning team. Professional cleaners are experienced in deep cleaning kitchens and have the necessary tools and expertise to tackle tough stains, grease, and grime. They can efficiently clean kitchen appliances, cabinets, and countertops, leaving them sparkling clean and ready for the final inspection. Hiring professionals can save you time and ensure that every nook and cranny in your kitchen is thoroughly cleaned.

When hiring a professional cleaning team, be sure to communicate your specific requirements and expectations. Usually, when moving out, it’s best to just call professional end of lease cleaners. They clean the entire property as well as the kitchen, so you get more value for your money and waste no time doing everything yourself.

Takeaways

• Clear out personal belongings and trash before deep cleaning;
• Clean all surfaces thoroughly, starting from top to bottom;
• Clean room by room, so you know you’re done with one before moving to the next;
• Pay attention to commonly overlooked areas and use appropriate cleaning products.

Do you have some cleaning tips of your own? Let us know by leaving a comment!