Planning on moving out and want to do everything you can to get your security deposit back? Thoroughly cleaning your rental unit can sometimes make or break it. Today, we’re reviewing why move-out cleaning matters, tips for which areas to focus on, and mistakes to avoid during your cleaning process.
Why Move-Out Cleaning Matters for Your Security Deposit
We get it—cleaning might be the last thing on your mind while moving your belongings out of a rental home. However, taking the time to clean your rental unit before turning in your keys is an essential part of the process. This is especially true if you want to get your security deposit back.
Your Austin property manager or landlord should clearly state all move-in and move-out expectations in your lease agreement. That said, most landlords and property managers expect you to leave your rental in the condition you found it, which should be clean and free of damage.
If you leave large messes in your unit when you move out, you risk losing part (or all, depending on how bad it is) of your security deposit. So, it’s essential that you take the time to thoroughly clean the unit and ensure there’s no damage to it that wasn’t there when you moved in.
Essential Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
You know that you need to clean your rental, but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve covered all your bases for you. Follow our cleaning checklist and get your security deposit back when you move out.
Remove Nails From Walls
Wipe Down Doors and Door Frames
Dust Ceiling Fans
Clean Windows and Mirrors
Empty All Cabinets and Drawers
Deep Clean Sinks, Showers, and Toilets
Clean All Appliances
Dust Baseboards and Trim
Vacuum, Sweep, and Mop Floors
Take Out All Trash
Remove Nails From Walls
More often than not, people use nails to hang home decor or other things that make a home feel more personal. However, you should remove them from the walls when you move out. That said, small nail holes are considered normal wear and tear and shouldn’t cost you your deposit. But if there are any significant or noticeable holes, you may want to patch them up, as long as you can do it without causing further damage.
Wipe Down Doors and Door Frames
Doors and door frames can get overlooked during the cleaning process, but a quick wipe-down can make a big difference. Simply use a duster or rag to wipe down these areas throughout the home, including all cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathroom.
Dust Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are easily neglected since they’re out of our direct line of sight. However, they shouldn’t be because they get very dusty, very fast. Make sure you take the time to clean the ceiling fans in your unit to ensure the next person who turns them on won’t get covered in dust.
Clean Windows and Mirrors
Another small yet often overlooked move-out task is cleaning windows and mirrors. Making sure these areas shine can make all the difference in transforming your rental. Remember to use cleaners made for glass areas and the right towel to avoid any scratches.
Empty All Cabinets and Drawers
Again, when something’s out of sight, it might be out of mind. It’s important that all the cabinets and drawers in the unit are emptied and cleaned before you turn in your keys. If there are any crumbs or messes in these areas, clean them out well with an appropriate cleaning solution or a wet rag.
Deep Clean Sinks, Showers, and Toilets
A few areas that absolutely cannot be neglected during your cleaning process are any sinks, showers, and toilets. While this may seem like common sense, it’s especially important to try to remove any hard water buildup and grime from each of these areas. With that, you may need to buy special cleaners made for showers and toilets, if you don’t have them already.
Clean All Appliances
Appliances, like the stove, fridge, dishwasher, and microwave, should also be deep cleaned before you move out. These can accumulate a lot of buildup and grime over time, which should be removed before you turn in the keys. Yes, it can take a bit of extra effort to make the appliances look as good as new, but it’s essential to put this time in if you want your deposit back.
Dust Baseboards and Trim
It may seem like overkill, but dusting the baseboards and trim can make a big difference in how your rental looks. You don’t have to spend all day on it; it can be as simple as walking through with a duster or using a mop to make these spaces look clean again.
Vacuum, Sweep, and Mop Floors
This should be a no-brainer, but in case it’s not, make sure to thoroughly clean the floors before you move out. This includes vacuuming carpeted areas, sweeping non-carpeted areas, and mopping–especially in high-traffic areas of the home.
Take Out All Trash
Lastly, make sure you remove all the trash accumulated from cleaning your rental unit. The last thing you want to do is deep-clean the place and then leave the trash for your landlord or property manager to take care of later.
Common Cleaning Mistakes That Cost You Your Deposit
If you’re taking the time to clean your unit, you most likely want to get your security deposit back. However, just because you’re cleaning doesn’t mean you’re doing it right. Here are some common mistakes to avoid if you want your deposit back.
Rushing the Process- While you probably don’t want to spend all day cleaning a place that you’re moving out of, it’s important not to rush it. If you save all your cleaning until the very last day, there’s a chance you’ll skip over critical areas. So, take your time, and start on your cleaning with enough time to finish it all.
Using the Wrong Products- Sure, you’re taking the time to clean, but sometimes cleaning with the wrong products can do more harm than good. Your regular all-purpose cleaner may be great for some areas, but it’s crucial to pay close attention to what you use on wood, glass, and carpeted areas.
Neglecting Certain Areas- If you’re someone who regularly deep-cleans, you may be able to get away with a light clean before you move out. However, there are certain areas that shouldn’t be neglected. For instance, high-traffic areas like the kitchen and bathroom should be cleaned to the best of your ability.
When to Hire Professional Cleaners
As a tenant, you probably don’t have to hire a professional to come in and clean your unit before you move. However, if you really don’t have the time or ability to do so, and you still want your deposit back, it may be necessary. Still, oftentimes, your landlord or property manager may hire a professional to come in before the next tenant moves in to ensure it’s ready to go.
Find Your Next Rental With Stone Oak
If you’re planning on moving out, don’t forget to add cleaning your rental unit to your to-do list. A thorough cleaning can help you get your security deposit back and help prepare the rental for the next tenant.
That said, if you’re looking for your next rental home, let the professionals at Stone Oak Management help you find the perfect place. Check out our current listings, or contact us today to learn more about our properties and rental process.
