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Professional Cleaning Tips for Moving Out and Getting Your Deposit Back

By the Viral Info team · Updated November 2026 · 3 min read

Professional Move Out Cleaning Tips

Landlords inspect for deep dirt that everyday cleaning misses. These professional move out cleaning tips walk you through the order cleaners use, so you can leave the place spotless and get your deposit back.

Room-by-room checklist

Item Why it works
Kitchen Oven, fridge, cabinets, sink
Bathroom Grout, toilet, mirrors, drains
Bedrooms Closets, baseboards, windows
Living areas Walls, outlets, floors
Whole home Light switches, doors, vents

Before you start

  1. Read your lease for cleaning requirements.
  2. Pack and remove everything first.
  3. Gather a caddy with cleaner, degreaser, microfiber and a scrub brush.

Top to bottom

  1. Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures.
  2. Wipe walls and remove scuffs with a melamine sponge.
  3. Clean windows, sills and tracks.
  4. Wipe baseboards and doors.

Kitchen and bath

  1. Degrease the oven and hob.
  2. Empty, defrost and wipe the fridge.
  3. Wipe inside every cabinet and drawer.
  4. Descale taps, shower heads and glass.
  5. Scrub the toilet including the base and behind.

Finish strong

  1. Vacuum and mop floors last.
  2. Patch small nail holes if your lease allows.
  3. Take dated photos and video of every room.

Tip: Work top to bottom and back to front so you never re-dirty a surface you already cleaned.

FAQ

How clean does an apartment need to be to get my deposit back?

As clean as when you moved in, allowing for normal wear and tear. Check your lease and move-in report.

Should I hire professional cleaners?

It can help for large homes or ovens, but the steps above cover most rentals.

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