Move-out cleaning is a comprehensive cleaning service that restores a rental property or home to its original condition before you hand over the keys. It covers everything from inside appliances to baseboards and window tracks, going far beyond what regular weekly cleaning addresses.

For tenants, a thorough move-out clean often determines whether you get your security deposit back. For sellers, it helps present your home at its best for buyers. This guide covers what move-out cleaning includes, a room-by-room checklist, typical costs, and how to find the right cleaning service for your situation.

What is move-out cleaning

Move-out cleaning is a thorough cleaning service performed when you leave a rental property or sell a home. Unlike the regular cleaning you do week to week, move-out cleaning goes deeper. The goal is to restore the property to the condition it was in when you first moved in, covering every surface, appliance, and corner that a landlord or new owner will inspect.

You'll sometimes hear this called "move-in/move-out cleaning" because the same level of deep cleaning applies whether you're leaving or arriving. For tenants, this type of cleaning often determines whether you get your full security deposit back. For home sellers, it helps present the property in its best condition for buyers.

So what actually makes move-out cleaning different from standard cleaning? A few key distinctions:

• Depth: Cleaners tackle spots typically skipped during routine cleaning, like inside the oven, behind the refrigerator, and the tops of cabinets.
• Restoration focus: The priority is returning the property to a move-in ready state, not just tidying up.
• Inspection readiness: Every task aligns with what landlords and property managers look for during final walkthroughs.

What move-out cleaning services include

Professional move-out cleaners typically follow a detailed checklist that covers every room. While the exact services vary by company, most packages address the same core areas. Here's what you can generally expect.

Kitchen cleaning

The kitchen usually demands the most work during a move-out clean. Grease builds up on stovetops, range hoods, and backsplashes over time, and cleaners focus on removing that buildup completely. They also clean inside appliances like ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers, where food residue and odors accumulate with regular use.

Beyond appliances, cabinet interiors and exteriors get wiped down, along with countertops and sinks. Light fixtures, switch plates, and cabinet hardware also receive attention. Landlords often notice these small details during inspections, so addressing them matters.

Bathroom cleaning

Bathrooms require thorough sanitization. Cleaners scrub tile, grout, and tubs to remove soap scum, mildew, and hard water stains that develop over months of daily use. Toilets get disinfected inside and out, while mirrors and fixtures are polished until streak-free.

Exhaust fans, which most people overlook during regular cleaning, get cleaned to remove dust buildup. The end result is a bathroom that looks and smells fresh for whoever moves in next.

Bedroom and living area cleaning

In bedrooms and living spaces, the focus shifts to dust removal and surface cleaning. Ceiling fans, light fixtures, and air vents collect dust that's easy to miss but obvious during a walkthrough. Cleaners wipe down doors, door frames, and closet shelves where dust settles over time.

Scuff marks on walls and baseboards get spot-cleaned as well. While move-out cleaning doesn't include painting, removing surface marks can make a noticeable difference in how the space looks overall.

Floors, baseboards, and windows

Every floor type gets appropriate treatment. Carpets are vacuumed thoroughly, while hardwood and tile floors are mopped. Baseboards throughout the home get wiped clean since they're a common inspection point that tenants often forget about.

Interior windows and sills are washed to remove fingerprints and grime. Cleaners also spot-clean walls where marks or smudges appear, helping the entire space look well-maintained.

Move-out cleaning checklist by room

Having a room-by-room checklist helps ensure nothing gets missed before your final walkthrough. Whether you're hiring professionals or tackling the job yourself, here's what a thorough move-out clean covers.

Kitchen

• Clean inside and behind the refrigerator.
• Degrease the oven interior and stovetop.
• Wipe cabinet fronts, handles, and interior shelves.
• Sanitize the sink, faucet, and garbage disposal area.
• Clean light fixtures and switch plates.
• Wash the floor, including corners and edges under cabinets.

Bathrooms

• Scrub the shower, tub, and tile grout.
• Disinfect the toilet inside, outside, and around the base.
• Clean the vanity, countertop, and mirror.
• Wipe the exhaust fan cover.
• Wash floors and baseboards.
• Polish fixtures and hardware.

Bedrooms

• Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures.
• Clean closet shelves, rods, and floors.
• Wipe windowsills and tracks.
• Remove marks from walls and doors.
• Vacuum or mop floors, including inside closets.

Living room and common areas

• Dust blinds, curtain rods, and window treatments.
• Clean light switches, outlets, and door handles.
• Vacuum carpets or mop hard floors.
• Wipe baseboards and door frames.
• Clean interior windows and glass doors.

Entryways, closets, and storage spaces

• Sweep and mop entryway floors.
• Wipe down closet interiors and shelving.
• Clean the garage or storage unit if included in your lease.
• Remove cobwebs from corners and ceiling edges.

How much does move-out cleaning cost

Move-out cleaning prices depend on several factors. Most companies charge either flat rates based on property size or hourly rates based on the work involved. Understanding what influences pricing helps you budget and compare quotes more effectively.

Apartment move-out cleaning prices

Apartment cleaning typically costs less than house cleaning because of smaller square footage. Studios and one-bedroom units fall at the lower end of the pricing range, while larger apartments with multiple bathrooms cost more. The condition of the apartment also plays a role. A well-maintained space requires less intensive work than one that hasn't been deep cleaned in a long time.

House move-out cleaning prices

Move-out cleaning for houses costs more, especially for larger homes with multiple bathrooms or levels. Multi-story homes may include additional fees for the extra time required. Homes with specialty features like large master bathrooms or professional-grade kitchens can also affect the final price.

Factors that affect move-out cleaning costs

Several variables influence what you'll pay:

• Property size: Larger homes take more time and labor, which directly affects cost.
• Property condition: Heavily soiled properties may require extra time and specialized cleaning products.
• Add-on services: Carpet cleaning, exterior window washing, or detailed appliance cleaning often cost extra.
• Location: Urban areas typically have higher rates than suburban or rural markets.
• Timing: Peak moving seasons like summer or end-of-month dates can affect both availability and pricing.

Benefits of hiring professional move-out cleaners

Many tenants and homeowners choose professional move-out cleaning over doing it themselves. Here's why that choice often makes sense.

Save time during a stressful move

Moving is already one of life's most time-consuming experiences. Between packing boxes, coordinating logistics, and updating your address everywhere, cleaning an entire property often falls to the bottom of the list. Hiring professional cleaners frees you to focus on the move itself rather than scrubbing floors at midnight before your walkthrough.

Improve your chances of getting your deposit back

Landlords commonly deduct cleaning fees from security deposits when units aren't left in proper condition. A professional move-out clean helps you meet the cleanliness standards outlined in your lease, which gives you the best chance of getting your full deposit back. Many tenants find that the cost of professional cleaning is less than what they'd otherwise lose in deductions.

Meet lease requirements and landlord expectations

Some leases specifically require professional cleaning or outline detailed cleanliness standards for move-out. A professional service delivers consistent results that align with those requirements. Many cleaning companies also provide receipts you can share with your landlord as documentation.

Move-out cleaning for tenants and landlords

Both tenants and property owners benefit from professional move-out cleaning, though the reasons differ.

Why tenants use move-out cleaning

For tenants, move-out cleaning directly affects deposit recovery and lease compliance. A thorough clean also demonstrates respect for the property, which can help maintain a positive relationship with your landlord. That relationship matters if you ever need a rental reference down the road. Professional cleaners handle the details so you can focus on getting settled in your new place.

Why landlords and property managers use move-out cleaning services

Landlords and property managers rely on move-out cleaning to minimize vacancy time between tenants. A professionally cleaned unit is ready to show immediately, which speeds up the leasing process. Consistent cleaning standards also reduce disputes over deposit deductions since both parties can clearly see the property was properly maintained.

Move-in vs move-out cleaning

Move-in and move-out cleaning are essentially the same service performed at different points in the rental cycle. The main difference is who books the service and why.

Some tenants book move-in cleaning even when the previous occupant had the unit cleaned. It's simply a matter of peace of mind, knowing the space meets their personal standards before unpacking.

How to choose a move-out cleaning company

Finding the right move-out cleaning service involves looking at a few factors beyond price alone.

Look for vetted and trained cleaners

Reputable move-out cleaning companies run background checks and provide professional training for their staff. Since cleaners will be in your home, often when you're not there, knowing they've been properly vetted provides important peace of mind. It's worth asking potential companies about their hiring and training processes before booking.

Ask about cleaning standards and checklists

Professional move-out cleaning companies follow standardized checklists that cover all the areas landlords typically inspect. Before you book, ask whether the company uses a consistent process and whether you can review their checklist. That transparency helps set expectations and ensures nothing gets overlooked.

Confirm transparent pricing and easy booking

Look for companies that provide upfront quotes without hidden fees or surprise charges after the work is done. Online booking makes scheduling convenient, especially during the hectic final days before a move. Clear communication about what's included in the price helps you compare your options accurately.

Book your move-out cleaning with Homero

At Homero, we provide professional move-out cleaning with vetted, trained cleaners who follow consistent standards. Our pricing is clear and upfront, and our online booking takes just a few minutes.

Whether you're leaving an apartment or a full house, we deliver the thorough, reliable cleaning that helps you get your deposit back and leave your property in excellent condition.

Book a home cleaning appointment online

FAQs about move-out cleaning services

How far in advance should I book a move-out cleaning service?

Booking one to two weeks ahead is ideal, especially during peak moving seasons like summer or the end of the month when cleaners have limited availability. If you're moving during a particularly busy period, booking even earlier helps ensure you get your preferred date.

Do I need to be present during my move-out cleaning?

You don't need to be home during the cleaning. However, you'll want to make sure the cleaners have access to the property and any specific instructions beforehand, like areas that need extra attention or entry codes.

What happens if the move-out cleaners miss something before my walkthrough?

Reputable move-out cleaning companies offer satisfaction guarantees and will return to address missed areas at no extra charge. Before booking, ask about the company's policy for touch-ups so you know what to expect if any issues come up.

Can I request specific cleaning tasks during a move-out clean?

Yes, most professional move-out cleaning services allow you to add specific tasks like carpet cleaning, interior window washing, or extra attention to particular rooms. Add-ons typically cost extra, so ask about pricing when you book.

Is move-out cleaning the same as deep cleaning?

Move-out cleaning is similar to deep cleaning in scope, but the focus differs. Deep cleaning maintains a home you're living in, while move-out cleaning specifically restores a property for the next tenant or buyer. Both involve thorough attention to areas often skipped during regular cleaning.

When is the best time to schedule move-out cleaning?

Schedule your cleaning after all furniture and belongings have been removed from the property. Empty rooms allow cleaners to access every surface, corner, and closet, which results in a more thorough clean that's ready for your landlord's inspection.