What should I clean before moving out?

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 [email protected] 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.