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Before moving out of your rental home, one of the most crucial tasks to tackle is the end-of-lease cleaning. It’s necessary to ensure that you leave a positive impression on your landlord and also increase the likelihood of getting your full security deposit back. 

Whether you need to get your home super clean before you vacate or are just looking for a simple move-out cleaning checklist on hand, you’ve come to the right place! Here’s an expanded checklist to guide you through an effective end-of-lease cleaning:

1. Living Areas

Living areas are the soul of any property, and rental homes are no exception. To clean them and preserve their appearance, you’ll have to do various tasks: 

• Dust all surfaces, including shelves, baseboards, and light fixtures.

• Mop hardwood or laminate floors, ensuring to clean any scuff marks or stains.

• Vacuum and wash carpets thoroughly, paying special attention to every corner and under furniture.

2. Kitchen

When it comes to an end of lease cleaning, the kitchen, known as the heart of the home and most frequently used space, requires some specific cleaning tasks. 

• Clean all major appliances inside and out, including the refrigerator, oven, microwave, and dishwasher.

• Wipe down countertops, ensuring all spills and stains are removed.

• Empty and clean cabinets and drawers, removing any crumbs or residue.

• Sanitise the sink and faucet, ensuring any hard water stains are addressed.

3. Bathrooms

In case kitchens demand the most cleaning effort, bathrooms are unarguably a close second. Instead of overlooking your bathrooms, tackle this task—whether by yourself or through professional end-of-lease cleaners. 

• Scrub toilets, showers, and bathtubs, ensuring no soap scum or mould remains.

• Clean sinks, mirrors, and any glass surfaces to a streak-free shine.

• Wipe down cabinets and shelves, removing any personal items and dust.

• Mop the floor and ensure all fixtures look polished and hygienic.

4. Bedrooms

Bedrooms are where everyone wants to spend relaxing time after hectic routines. Like parts of the home, bedrooms also require both general and deep cleaning services, depending on their condition. 

• Dust all surfaces, including nightstands, dressers, and ceiling fans.

• Vacuum carpets or mop hard floors, checking for dust bunnies under the bed.

• Wash windows to ensure both the glass and any sills are spotless and shiny.

5. Miscellaneous

Beyond all types of cleaning required for rental properties, there’s also a checklist of miscellaneous cleaning tasks to be done before tenants vacate. Let’s take a look at some of them… 

• Remove cobwebs from corners and ceilings throughout the house.

• Dust and clean any blinds or window coverings.

• Disinfect high-touch areas like door handles, light switches, and remote controls.

• Dispose of any leftover trash and ensure that all personal belongings are removed.

6. Outdoor Areas (if applicable)

Beyond indoor cleaning, outdoor areas also need to be super clean. To maintain your rental home in good condition and free from distractions, here’s what you need to do. 

• Sweep and clean patios, balconies, or porches.

• Cut off any overgrown plants and remove dead leaves or debris professionally.

• Make sure that entrance areas are decluttered and appear more inviting.

Wrapping It Up

Getting insights into this comprehensive checklist will help you ensure that your end-of-lease clean is thorough and meets the standards expected by landlords or property managers. Just invest in this process, and you will have a smoother transition and secure the return of your deposit.