The Ultimate Move-In / Move-Out Cleaning Checklist

Moving is exciting. It’s also… a lot. Boxes everywhere. A couch that mysteriously won’t fit through the door. And oh yeah — you still need to clean. Like, really clean.

Whether you’re saying goodbye to your old place or giving your new one a fresh start, a solid cleaning session is the secret sauce to feeling settled (and getting that security deposit back 🎉). So grab your gloves — we’ve got your back with this ultimate move-in/move-out cleaning checklist.

First Things First: What You’ll Need

Let’s make sure you’re stocked up on the essentials:

• All-purpose cleaner (our go to scent is lemon 🍋)

• Disinfectant wipes or spray

• Broom, mop, vacuum

• Microfiber cloths

• Magic erasers (they are magic)

• Trash bags

• Rubber gloves

• Glass cleaner (for those streak-free mirror moments)

Kitchen Cleaning

Appliances:

• Clean the fridge inside and out — yes, even that mysterious bottom drawer

• Scrub the oven and stovetop (you may find some “vintage” pasta sauce)

• Wipe down the microwave (no one likes old popcorn smells)

• Run and clean the dishwasher

Cabinets & Surfaces:

• Wipe inside drawers and cabinets — you’d be amazed what collects there

• Disinfect countertops and backsplash

• Clean any grease off the range hood or fan

Sinks & Floors:

• Scrub the sink and shine up that faucet

• Check for funky smells or clogs

• Sweep and mop — make those floors sparkle

Bathroom: A Small Space with Big Germ Potential

Time to make this place sparkle like a spa.

• • Scrub the tub, shower, and tiles

  • Disinfect the toilet (inside, outside, all around)

  • Wipe down counters and cabinet doors

  • Clean mirrors like you’re on selfie duty

  • Sweep and mop floors

• Take out the trash (don’t leave that last tissue roll!)

Bedrooms & Living Areas: Time to Dust Off the Dust

• Dust baseboards, window sills, and door frames

• Vacuum carpets or mop hardwood floors

• Clean windows and tracks (hello sunshine!)

• Wipe down ceiling fans and light fixtures

• Remove nails, patch small holes, spot-clean walls

• Make sure it smells as fresh as it looks

Closets, Hallways, and Entryways: Don’t Forget the Nooks

• Empty and wipe shelves and closet rods

• Dust everything — especially top corners

• Vacuum or sweep the floors

• Wipe down doorknobs and light switches

Bonus Round: Outdoor Areas 

• Sweep patios and entryways

• Wipe down outdoor lights or railings

• Take out trash, recycle bins, and any lingering clutter

Moving In? Here’s Your Fresh Start Checklist

Even if the place looks clean, it’s always nice to know it’s your clean.

• Wipe inside cabinets before unpacking

• Disinfect doorknobs, light switches, and handles

• Vacuum carpets or steam clean

• Run appliances with a little TLC before using

Why You Might Want to Call in the Pros

Let’s be honest — cleaning an entire home can be exhausting (especially when you’re already juggling packing, movers, and finding your Wi-Fi password). Professional cleaners can handle the deep stuff, and many offer special move-out packages that include carpet cleaning and more.

Plus, for renters, this could be the difference between a full deposit return and an awkward email from your landlord.

Now lets get to it! 

A move-in/move-out clean may not be the most glamorous part of your move, but it is one of the most satisfying. With this checklist in hand, you’re one step closer to a fresh, clean slate.

And if things start to feel overwhelming? Take a breath and go step by step. You’re doing great.