Moving is exciting, but move-out cleaning often becomes a rushed afterthought. Overlooking key areas can cost a hefty chunk of the security deposit or, worse, leave a bad impression on new occupants. If looking up move in move out cleaning prices or handling it solo, knowing where mistakes happen most often can make all the difference.
Here’s a smart, easy-to-follow checklist highlighting the spots most people forget when tackling move-in/move-out cleaning.
1. Inside Kitchen Appliances
- Everyone wipes the counters, but what about the appliances?
Ovens, microwaves, and refrigerators collect months’ worth of grease, crumbs, and spills. Landlords almost always check these areas closely.
Quick Tip:
Empty and defrost the fridge at least a day before moving out to avoid a watery mess.
2. Baseboards and Trim
- Baseboards live close to the ground, dust, pet hair, and scuff marks love to hide here. They may not scream for attention, but skipping them can make a room look dingy.
Easy Fix:
Use a damp cloth with mild cleaner for a fast refresh.
3. Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans
- These spots collect dust silently until someone flips the switch. Dirty light fixtures dim the room, while dusty fans scatter allergens.
Reminder:
Always clean ceiling fans before vacuuming floors to avoid doing double the work.
4. Behind and Under Furniture
- When furniture gets moved, forgotten grime comes out of hiding. Dust bunnies, coins, and sometimes long-lost treasures lurk under beds, sofas, and dressers.
Pro Tip:
Use a long vacuum attachment to reach difficult spots without breaking a sweat.
5. Air Vents and Filters
- Vents filled with dust can affect air quality, a detail many landlords and new owners won’t ignore.
Important Step:
Vacuum vents thoroughly and replace HVAC filters if possible. It’s a small task that makes a big impression.
6. Inside Cabinets and Drawers
- Even empty cabinets can have crumbs, stains, or forgotten items. Cleaning these spaces shows attention to detail and prevents pests from moving in.
Best Practice:
Wipe down interiors with a gentle cleaner and leave them smelling fresh.
7. Door Handles and Light Switches
- High-touch surfaces gather fingerprints, grime, and germs. They’re tiny, but dirty switches and handles stand out during inspections.
Simple Hack:
Wipe these areas with a disinfecting cloth right before leaving.
8. Patio, Balcony, or Entryway
- Outdoor spaces often get neglected in the cleaning rush. However, porches, balconies, and patios create the first and last impression.
Quick Refresh:
Sweep the area, wipe down railings, and remove any cobwebs.
9. Wall Marks and Scuffs
- Small scuffs can dramatically affect the look of a freshly cleaned home. Magic erasers or gentle soap can work wonders.
Pro Move:
Touch up noticeable spots to instantly brighten the walls without needing a full repaint.
10. Garbage Disposal and Trash Bins
- Nothing says “forgot something” like a lingering smell. Garbage disposals and empty bins can hold odors long after the trash is gone.
Final Step:
Run the garbage disposal with lemon slices or baking soda and rinse out bins thoroughly.
Why Professional Help Makes a Difference
Juggling packing, cleaning, and coordinating a move is overwhelming. Professional move in and move out cleaning ensures nothing gets overlooked, giving peace of mind and a spotless finish. Searching for move in move out cleaning services near me can lead straight to experienced teams like DLL Cleaning Services, who know exactly what landlords inspect.
Make moving simpler, schedule an expert move in out cleaning today with DLL Cleaning Services and leave with confidence!
FAQs
What areas are often forgotten during move-out cleaning?
Most people forget inside appliances, baseboards, vents, and outdoor areas when doing move-out cleaning.
How much does move-out cleaning typically cost?
Move-in/move-out cleaning prices vary based on home size and condition, but on average range from $150 to $500.
Is move-out cleaning worth hiring professionals for?
Hiring professionals ensures thorough cleaning, saves time, and improves chances of getting a full security deposit back.
What should be cleaned first during a move-out clean?
Start with appliances, then move to bathrooms and floors to prevent re-cleaning dust and debris from higher surfaces.
Do I need to clean if I’m hiring a move-in/out service?
No, but basic organization can help professionals do an even more detailed and efficient job.
Author Profile
-
I am an entrepreneur and a perfectionist by
nature. After half of my life in the Dominican Republic, I arrived to New York. I learned the industry's groundwork on my own. In 2010 I partnered with a cleaning Business in
New Rochelle, which inspired me to start my own Company. I founded DLL Cleaning.
Services in 2018. Since then, my company has been providing Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn,
Yonkers residents with excellent residential and commercial cleaning services.
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