Moving can be exciting! A fresh start, a new neighborhood (maybe even a new city!), a blank canvas to decorate…but before you get carried away by the thrill of packing boxes and picturing yourself in your new digs, there’s a not-so-exciting hurdle to jump: the dreaded apartment move out clean.
Don’t worry though, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive apartment cleaning move out checklist. With this trusty list by your side, you’ll ensure you leave your old apartment sparkling clean and secure the return of that sweet security deposit.
Why a Move-Out Checklist is Important
Let’s face it, between the packing, the goodbyes, and the whirlwind of emotions that come with moving, it’s easy to forget things on your apartment cleaning move out checklist. A detailed move out cleaning checklist keeps you organized, ensures you don’t miss any crucial spots, and helps you avoid any last-minute cleaning scrambles.
Read more: Residential Cleaning Calgary
Essential Prep
Preparation is key! Here are a few things to tackle before you grab your cleaning supplies:
- Review your lease agreement: Most lease agreements outline specific cleaning expectations for move-out. This is your cleaning bible, so take some time to read through it carefully.
- Schedule a cleaning day: Give yourself ample time to clean thoroughly. Ideally, aim for a full day, especially if your apartment is on the larger side.
- Gather your cleaning supplies: Stock up on all the essentials, like an all-purpose cleaner, disinfectant wipes, sponges, rags, a vacuum cleaner, and a mop.
Your Apartment Cleaning Move Out Checklist
Now, let’s get down to business! Here’s your comprehensive apartment cleaning move out checklist to conquer every corner:
1. Kitchen
- Appliances: Clean inside and outside of your oven, stovetop, refrigerator (including defrosting it!), dishwasher, and microwave. Don’t forget to wipe down cupboard doors and handles.
- Sinks and countertops: Scrub away any grease, grime, and food residue.
- Floors: Sweep, mop, and remove any spills or splatters.
- Backsplash: Wipe down any greasy splatters on the backsplash.
2. Bathroom
- Toilet: Give it a thorough scrub, don’t forget the base and behind the toilet.
- Shower/tub: Remove soap scum, mildew, and hard water stains. Pay attention to the showerhead, faucet, and tile grout.
- Sink and vanity: Clean the sink basin, faucets, and vanity surfaces. Empty and clean out drawers and cabinets.
- Mirrors: Wipe down mirrors to a streak-free shine.
- Floors: Scrub and mop the bathroom floor.
3. Living Areas
- Walls: Wipe down walls for any dust or marks (be sure to check your lease agreement for any specific paint touch-up requirements).
- Light fixtures and ceiling fans: Remove dust and cobwebs from light fixtures and ceiling fans.
- Doors and windows: Clean window blinds, wash windows (inside and out if possible!), and wipe down doors and doorknobs.
- Floors: Vacuum carpets thoroughly, paying attention to corners and edges. Mop hard floors. You can use a professional team for carpet cleaning Calgary to take care of it.
- Closets and cabinets: Empty them out, wipe down shelves and surfaces, and remove any cobwebs.
4. Extras!
- Garbage disposal: Run the garbage disposal with ice cubes and lemon wedges to freshen it up.
- Vents and air filters: Clean air vents and replace air filters if needed.
- Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors: Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors Wipe them down with a damp cloth (never use cleaning products).
5. Finishing Touches
- Do a final walkthrough: Once you’ve cleaned everything, take a final walk-through of the apartment with a critical eye. Look for any missed spots and make sure everything is sparkling clean.
- Take pictures: Once the apartment is spotless, take pictures of each room as documentation of the cleaning condition.
Considering Hiring Professional Help?
Let’s be honest, moving is a LOT of work. Between the packing, the coordinating, and the goodbyes, the thought of tackling a deep apartment cleaning can feel overwhelming! That’s where SwiftMaids comes in!
We understand the stress of moving, and we’re here to help you conquer your apartment move out clean in Calgary. Our professional cleaning team is experienced, efficient, and dedicated to leaving your old apartment sparkling clean so you can focus on the exciting parts of your move.
Here’s what Swift Maids can offer you:
- Detailed cleaning: We’ll follow a comprehensive residential deep cleaning checklist to ensure every nook and cranny of your apartment is cleaned to the highest standards.
- Experienced cleaners: Our team is trained and experienced in all aspects of home cleaning, so you can rest assured the job will be done right.
- Eco-friendly cleaning products: We use safe and effective cleaning products that are gentle on the environment.
- Flexible scheduling: We can work around your busy moving schedule to find a convenient time to clean your apartment.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that your apartment is in the hands of professionals will give you one less thing to worry about during your move.
SwiftMaids knows the ins and outs of your apartment move out cleaning list! Contact us today for a free quote and breathe easy knowing your apartment in Calgary will be spotless for the next tenant and your security deposit secure.
Bonus: Deep Cleaning Hacks for Tough Spots
Even with a great apartment cleaning move out checklist, certain areas might require some extra TLC. Here are some bonus tips for tackling tough spots in your apartment:
Ovens with baked-on grease
Make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the greasy areas, and let it sit for a few hours before scrubbing clean.
Grimy stovetops
A baking soda paste works wonders here too! For stubborn stains, try a commercial cooktop cleaner.
Milky shower doors
A vinegar and water solution is your best friend for removing hard water stains and soap scum from shower doors.
Dusty blinds
Instead of wiping them down one by one, use a pair of tongs to grab several slats at a time and swipe them with a damp cloth.
Conclusion
With this comprehensive apartment cleaning move out checklist, bonus cleaning hacks, and the option of professional help from SwiftMaids, you’re well on your way to acing your apartment move-out clean and securing your security deposit! Now go forth, pack those boxes, and get ready for your exciting new chapter!