What should I clean before moving out?
Stop — Clean These 10 Things Before You Move or Lose Your Deposit!
Quick move-out cleaning checklist you can finish in a weekend
Moving out is not the time for guesswork. Landlords inspect line-by-line. Ten minutes of planning prevents deposit loss. Use this checklist, follow it room-by-room, and get the refund you earned.
Kitchen — where landlords focus
- Empty and defrost the fridge. Clean all shelves and drawers with baking soda and warm water.
- Clean oven and stovetop. Remove grease, burners, and drip pans. Use an oven cleaner for baked-on grime.
- Wipe cabinets inside and out. Remove fingerprints, crumbs, and food residue.
- Clean sink, faucet, and backsplash. Clear the drain and run hot water.
Why it matters: Kitchens show use. A spotless kitchen signals care.
Bathrooms — critical for inspections
- Scrub toilet bowl, seat, base, and tank exterior.
- Descale showerhead, faucets, tiles, and grout. Use a grout brush and mildew remover.
- Clean mirrors, medicine cabinets, and vanity surfaces.
- Replace or deep-clean the shower curtain and bath mats.
A clean bathroom removes the biggest reason landlords deduct money.
Floors, carpets, and rugs
- Vacuum all carpets thoroughly. Steam clean if stains or pet hair remain.
- Mop hard floors with a suitable cleaner. Pay attention to corners and under appliances.
- Remove scuff marks from wood floors with a gentle cleaner.
Carpet stains and odors are common deposit killers. Address them early.
Walls, baseboards, and light fixtures
- Wipe walls to remove fingerprints and scuffs. Use a magic eraser for stubborn marks.
- Clean baseboards and door frames.
- Dust and wipe light fixtures, switches, and vents.
Small fixes here look big to inspectors.
Appliances and storage areas
- Clean inside washer, dryer lint traps, and detergent drawers.
- Empty and vacuum pantry and closets. Remove nails and hooks you installed.
- Wipe down any built-in appliances and cupboards.
Windows, blinds, and curtains
- Clean windows inside and out where reachable.
- Dust blinds and wash curtains if they’re dirty.
- Remove cobwebs from corners and window tracks.
Outdoor spaces and final walkthrough
- Sweep balconies, patios, and entryways.
- Remove trash, old paint cans, and personal items.
- Do a final walkthrough with a checklist. Take time-stamped photos of each cleaned room.
Quick tips that save money
- Get a landlord-approved cleaning checklist. Match each item.
- Use high-quality photos and timestamps to document condition.
- Hire a professional cleaner for carpets or stubborn grime if needed.
Call to action — clear, direct help from a local expert
Need a move-out plan that protects your deposit and speeds closing? Tony Sousa is a local realtor who handles Moving & Transition for homeowners and renters. He knows what inspectors look for and will guide you step-by-step. Contact Tony at tony@sousasells.ca or 416-477-2620. Visit https://www.sousasells.ca for moving resources and a free move-out checklist.
Follow this checklist. Clean smart. Move with confidence.
