Move-out cleaning
Sara IdenforsIn this post, we will explore the importance of move-out cleaning and share useful tips and a comprehensive checklist to make the process easier. By following our advice, you can ensure that you do not miss any important steps in the process!
Last edited on May 22, 2024
Carrying out a move-out clean means cleaning and tidying the home you are moving out of so that it is left in a condition that meets the requirements of the tenancy agreement or impresses the buyer if you are selling the home. It is a big job, and doing it yourself requires a good guide and checklist. There is a lot to remember, and everything must be done thoroughly. Expect it to take time.
A cleaning company estimates that a move-out clean of a one-room apartment takes about 10 hours. The kitchen and bathroom take the longest. Try to work systematically and empty the home before you start. Move-out cleaning with all your belongings still in the home is not a good idea; it will take much longer.
If you do not want to hire a cleaning company to do the job, you can claim a RUT deduction for move-out cleaning. A reputable company will explain and handle everything for you. If the company wants to be paid in cash or cannot offer the RUT deduction, you should check them carefully, as there is a high risk that everything is not being done properly and that the tax authorities may not be informed. That is not something you want to contribute to!
But if you are going to clean yourself, try to stay positive and think a little outside the box. Here are some suggestions for things you can do. Invite your friends to a cleaning party. Provide cleaning products and a list of what needs to be done in each room.
Assign each guest a room to start in and set a clear deadline—for example, we’ll be done at 1 p.m. Then treat everyone to a more luxurious catered dinner outdoors as a thank-you for their help. Or get the family involved and agree to tackle one room per day; that makes it easier too. Or think of it as a few serious workout sessions—a gigantic home gym. Set the alarm or start your fitness app and see what effect a move-out clean has.
Finally, here is a general checklist for carrying out an effective move-out clean
- Clean the oven both inside and out.
- Clean the stove, including behind it and the range hood.
- Wipe the inside and outside of the refrigerator and freezer.
- Clean the sink and drain / trap.
- Wipe down all surfaces, including kitchen countertops and cabinets.
- Wipe the trim
- Clean the windows.
- Defrost the freezer / clean behind it.
- Wipe down radiators and heating elements.
- Mop the floors.
- Clean fixed lighting
Bathroom
- Clean the toilet, including behind and around the cistern.
- Wipe down radiators and heating elements.
- Wash the bathtub or shower and wipe down the shower walls, including underneath. A shower curtain is generally not considered part of the property but belongs to the tenant.
- Clean the sink, including the P-trap, and the mirror.
- Wipe down the trim.
- Wipe down all surfaces and clean bathroom cabinets.
- Clean and disinfect the floor.
- Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners.
- Wipe down the trim.
- Vacuum or sweep the floor.
- Wipe down surfaces, including bedside tables and lamps.
- Clean wardrobes both inside and out.
- Clean windows and windowsills.
- Wipe down radiators and heating elements.
Living room
- Vacuum or sweep the floor.
- Wipe down all surfaces.
- Clean windows and windowsills.
- Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners, and wipe down the trim.
- Check and clean any fireplaces or wood-burning stoves.
- Wipe down radiators and heating elements.
General areas
- Vacuum or sweep all floors.
- Wipe down all surfaces, including doors and windows.
- Clean the windows from both the inside and outside if possible.
- Wipe down radiators and heating elements.
- Clean and vacuum any curtains or blinds.
General
- Replace broken light bulbs.
- Check for and fix any minor repairs.
- Empty and clean storage rooms and basements if this is your responsibility.
- Take photos of each room after cleaning as proof.
- Photograph all rooms after cleaning.
Before you finish the move-out cleaning, double-check with the landlord or real estate agent to make sure you have met all requirements and expectations. Having a well-organized checklist helps you keep track of what needs to be done and ensures you do not miss anything important.
____________________________________________________________________________________
1. How long does it usually take to clean a one-room apartment before moving out?
Move-out cleaning of a one-room apartment takes approximately 10 hours, with the kitchen and bathroom taking the longest.
2. What is a good strategy for cleaning efficiently before moving out?
Empty the home before you start cleaning, work systematically, and use a checklist to make sure nothing is missed.
3. How can you make move-out cleaning more fun and efficient?
Invite friends to a cleaning party, arrange cleaning products and tasks, or treat cleaning as a workout.