If you’ve done it before, you know that no matter how much experience you have, every relocation is a big deal. Amidst all the things you need to do and check off while you’re at it, there stands one task if you want to get your security deposit back in full: cleaning.
Not all landlords are fair, but guess what–if you do your job thoroughly, then they’d have no choice but to return your money. And if not, the law’s on your side, so you’re better off being thorough at this step and cleaning the whole place properly.
Here’s a quick guide on what not to forget to pay attention to when you’re moving out.
Hidden Spots to Check Before You Leave
Cleaning a house before moving out is generally stressful, so it’s easy to forget or overlook things. That’s why, it’s best to work from a checklist, and adding the hidden spots people usually miss is a surefire way to get them done.
This means checking and cleaning storage areas, closets, and under furniture. These are common places that people usually forget or overlook. Be sure, however, that your landlord will not, nor would they miss the chance to deduct money from your deposit to clean them.
So, address these places, give them a good look to make sure you’re not leaving anything behind, and you’ll dodge the extra charges. Invite some friends or family to help, as the more eyes you have during this phase, the less likely you are to miss something.
A flashlight can also be quite useful for peeking into dark and cramped spots. By checking every nook and cranny, you’ll have a smoother move-out, keep the place looking good, and feel way more relaxed that you didn’t forget anything.
Cleaning Kitchen Appliances
Bathrooms and kitchens are the landlord’s “most favourite” places to check. This means that
giving them a proper deep cleaning really pays off. A sparkling oven, fridge, and microwave can make all the difference in getting your deposit back and keeping your landlord on side.
For deep cleaning the oven from all the gunk, try mixing baking soda with water to make a paste. Spread it all over the interior and leave it to work its magic overnight. Wipe it off the next day, and if there’s still some stubborn grime, a dab of special oven cleaner might do the trick.
As for the fridge, clear out any old food and give the shelves a good scrub with warm, soapy water.
With the microwave, place a bowl of water and a splash of vinegar inside, heat it up, and let the steam loosen the dirt for easy wiping.
Naturally, don’t skip dusting and vacuuming behind these appliances and ensuring everything’s spotless. Investing some elbow grease now can save you from extra charges and make a very good impression on your move-out inspection.
Cleaning Bathroom Fixtures
Yes, areas like sinks, toilets, and bathtubs can quickly become grimy with mould and water spots, which definitely won’t impress the landlord, at least not in the right way.
You can tackle these issues quickly with the right cleaning products. For everyday grime, a mix of baking soda and vinegar can do wonders. But when it comes to stubborn mould or tough stains, you might need a bit of bleach or a special cleaner to get the job done.
Don’t overlook those sneaky areas where dirt loves to linger, like around taps or beneath toilet rims. Giving these spots regular attention keeps the nasty stuff away and makes everything look fresh.
Dusting and Vacuuming Hidden Areas
Dust often hides in corners, on lampshades, picture frames, light fixtures, carpets, and air vents. Removing it is non-negotiable if you want your deposit back in full. Start from the ceiling and work your way down—it’s the best way to catch everything.
A microfiber cloth is brilliant for reaching those high spots, and a vacuum with a brush attachment is perfect for keeping air vents clear. For those dusty baseboards, a damp cloth works wonders without sending dust flying everywhere.
If you spot dust in sunlight, chances are there’s more lurking about. Regularly cleaning not only keeps your place looking great but also helps you dodge those pesky extra cleaning fees, making it easier to get your deposit back.
Plus, a clean space leaves a fantastic impression on landlords and future tenants alike. So grab your cleaning gear and make it happen!
Windows and Mirrors
This might seem like a small job, but it really makes the place look fantastic. Clear, streak-free glass can brighten up any room, making it feel bigger and more inviting.
To get that sparkling shine, just mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Then grab a microfiber cloth or even a bit of newspaper and wipe from top to bottom to dodge those pesky streaks.
For those larger windows or stubborn spots, a trusty squeegee is your best mate. And while you’re at it, don’t forget any paint marks or sticky bits for that perfect finish. Oh, and a quick wipe of the window sills and blinds keeps everything looking spotless.
A good and thorough cleaning not only spruces up the place, but it might also help you get your security deposit back without a hitch, leaving a great impression on landlords or future tenants.
Have One Final Look When You Think You’re Done
Before you head out, give the place one last check. Look in all the nooks for dust or stuff you might’ve missed.
Make sure the windows shine and that all the lights and taps work. Check the floors for any marks you might’ve skipped over. Doing this leaves the place spotless, which is key for a smooth move-out.
Spending this bit of extra time now could help you notice something you might have overlooked and address it quickly. This is how you ace the moving-out inspection and get back your full deposit.
Conclusion
Ready to start yet?
Good, by adding these overlooked cleaning tasks and places, you’ll no doubt cover everything and get your money back from your landlord. We wish you the best of luck on your moving-out inspection and a happy relocation.
Here’s to a brand new chapter!
