In this era of frequent relocations, having an effective move-out cleaning routine is crucial. It prevents unnecessary disputes over security deposits, helps leave a favorable impression, and importantly, it benefits your well-being. According to the American Cleaning Institute, a well-cleaned home relieves stress by 20%. So, savor the satisfaction that comes with leaving a squeaky-clean old home and eager anticipation for your new one.
The Move Out Cleaning Checklist
Begin your deep clean by creating a comprehensive checklist for end of tenancy cleaning services. Detail every nook, cranny, drawer, and surface that requires attention. You may want to start from the top floors or rooms further away from the door and then progress towards the entrance. A checklist provides orderliness and ensures nothing gets overlooked in the hustle of moving.
Using the Right Supplies
Having the right cleaning tools in your arsenal is crucial. You need sturdy brushes for tough grime, microfiber cloths for dusting and wiping surfaces, a quality vacuum cleaner for carpets and floors, along with eco-friendly cleaning products that pack a punch while being safe to use.
Deep Clean Your Kitchen
The kitchen often bears the brunt of spills, stains, and grease – making it a focus of your clean-up. Pay particular attention to appliances such as the oven and refrigerator. Your stove top, kitchen cabinets and sink also need extensive cleaning.
Bathroom Deep Cleaning
Your bathroom warrants just as much attention as your kitchen. Scrub tiles and grout lines until they shine once more. Sanitize your bathtub or shower stall, toilet bowl, hand basin, mirrors, and faucets. Cleaning with a vinegar solution can help remove stubborn soap scum and water spots.
Handling the Bedrooms and Living Room
Bedrooms and living rooms mostly require vacuuming or mopping, dusting, along with window and door cleaning. Ensure all light fixtures, ceiling fans, blinds, closets, and shelves are free from grime and dust. Also, do not forget to clean under the furniture.
Steam Cleaning Carpets
Carpets harbor a lot of dirt, pet hair, loose change, and occasional forgotten items. Steam cleaning is recommended as it dislodges deeply embedded grime from your carpets while also removing any lingering odors. This leaves the carpet refreshed and nearly as good as new.
Windows Need Attention Too
Windows require careful cleaning both outside and inside. Remove cobwebs, wipe the frames and sills before washing the glass panes. A mix of vinegar and hot water makes for an excellent window cleaner leaving your windows squeaky clean.
Clean the Garage and Other Outdoor Areas
Garages and outdoor spaces like the patio or garden shed usually require a bit of decluttering before cleaning. Once empty, cleanse these spaces of dirt, oil spills or leftover paint cans. Ensure safety by properly disposing off any toxic substances.
Hiring Professional Cleaners
If you find this exhausting or are strapped for time, consider hiring professional cleaners. They possess both experience and specialized equipment for deep cleaning. However, make sure to do adequate research, read reviews and compare prices before you hire one.
The Benefits of Deep Cleaning Before Moving
Deep cleaning engenders pride in the work well done. By leaving your old home spic and span, you ensure a positive handover experience. This increases the likelihood of retrieving your security deposit fully, if the lease agreement stipulates a clean handover as one of its conditions.
Health and Wellness Factors
From a health perspective, deep cleaning eradicates allergens, molds, and bacteria. It improves indoor air quality making the environment safer for all. American Council on Science and Health reports that a clean home reduces the risk of allergies by 60%.
Environmental Responsibility
Choosing environmentally friendly cleaning products instead of harsh chemicals is not only good for you but also for the environment. This helps in reducing your carbon footprint and contributes positively to sustainability efforts.
Deep Clean: The Final Touch
Once you have ticked every item off your checklist, walk around, inspect every corner once more. If satisfied, give yourself a pat on the back. You have just bid farewell to dirt and left your old home cleaner than before.
Final Words
Giving your old home a thorough deep cleaning before moving out might seem daunting or even unnecessary but when undertaken methodically, it enriches your moving experience and benefits overall wellness. Embrace this act as more than just meeting contractual obligations to retain your deposit—view it as an act of closure, a new chapter looking forward to clean slates and new beginnings.