Cleaning guide
Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
What to clean in an empty home before you hand back the keys or list it for sale — room by room, plus the details landlords and buyers notice.
Quick answer
What should a move-out cleaning include?
A move-out clean covers the whole empty home: the kitchen (inside cabinets and drawers, counters, sink, the outside and inside of appliances), bathrooms (toilet, shower or tub, sink, mirrors, cabinets), every room (closets, shelves, baseboards, doors, light switches, window sills), and all floors. Check your lease or listing agent's checklist too, since some ask for specific items.
Step 1
Kitchen
- Empty and wipe inside cabinets and drawers
- Clean counters, backsplash, and the sink
- Clean the stovetop, knobs, and range hood
- Clean inside and outside the fridge once it is empty
- Clean inside the oven and microwave if required by your lease
- Sweep and mop, including along edges
Step 2
Bathrooms
- Clean the toilet inside, outside, and at the base
- Scrub the shower, tub, tile, and glass
- Empty and wipe the vanity and medicine cabinet
- Polish mirrors and fixtures
- Sweep and mop the floor
Step 3
Every room
- Empty and wipe closets and shelves
- Wipe baseboards, doors, and door frames
- Clean light switches and outlet covers
- Wipe window sills and tracks
- Spot-clean marks on walls where possible
- Vacuum or mop all floors
Step 4
Before you hand back the keys
- Compare against your lease or agent checklist
- Remove all belongings and trash
- Take dated photos of each room once clean
- Check that nothing is left in cabinets, closets, or appliances
Step 5
Moving in?
The same checklist works for a move-in clean. It is easiest in the gap between getting the keys and the day your furniture arrives.
See move-in and move-out cleaningMove-out cleaning in Northern Virginia & D.C.
Moving is busy enough. Book a move-out clean planned around your move date — share your lease checklist and we plan around it.
FAQ
Common questions
More guides: House Cleaning Checklist · Deep Cleaning Checklist
What should be cleaned when moving out?
The whole empty home: inside cabinets and drawers, counters, sink and appliances in the kitchen; toilets, showers, sinks and vanities in bathrooms; closets, baseboards, doors, switches and window sills in every room; and all floors. Always check your lease for specific requirements.
How long does a move-out clean take?
It depends on the size and condition of the home. Empty homes are faster to clean thoroughly because every surface can be reached, but a full move-out clean usually takes longer than a regular visit.
Should I clean before or after moving my furniture out?
After. Once the home is empty you can reach baseboards, closets, floors, and the spaces behind furniture.
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