Moving out of a rented property can be a stressful experience, with so many things to consider, from packing your belongings to finding a new home. One of the most important tasks is ensuring that your soon-to-be-ex-home is left in pristine condition for the next tenant or to secure the return of your deposit from your landlord or letting agency. The following tips, along with professional end-of-tenancy cleaning services from Cleaner Cleaner, will help make this often-daunting task more manageable, resulting in a smooth and successful end to your tenancy.
Start Early and Plan Your Time
Do not leave cleaning until the last minute! Begin the process at least two weeks before you plan to move out. This will give you plenty of time to thoroughly clean every nook and cranny without having to rush or cut corners. Create a schedule outlining what needs cleaning and in which order – prioritise areas that are particularly dirty or require deeper cleaning. If possible, allow yourself a full day after all your belongings have been removed for final touch-ups.
Organise Your Cleaning Supplies
Prioritise purchasing good quality cleaning products and materials. Inexpensive generic alternatives may seem cost-effective, but spending more on better quality supplies will pay off in the long run when they work faster and more effectively. Some must-have items include:
- Multi-purpose cleaner
- Glass cleaner
- Bleach
- Furniture polish
- Dishwashing liquid
- Sponges and scourers
- Cloths and rags (microfibre cloths are excellent)
- A mop with replaceable heads (a steam mop is even better)
- A vacuum cleaner (check if it has the appropriate attachments for hard floors and carpet)
Declutter Before You Clean
To make cleaning your property more efficient, take the time to declutter. Sort through your belongings and set aside anything that you do not wish to take with you when moving. Donate, sell or dispose of these items accordingly. Ensure any remaining items are organised and ready for packing, which will help streamline the entire clean-up process.
Take a Room by Room Approach
Tackle one room at a time in order to remain focused and avoid becoming overwhelmed by the overall task at hand. The following guidelines will help ensure no detail is overlooked:
Kitchen
- Empty and defrost the refrigerator, removing all shelves to wash separately with warm soapy water.
- Clean the oven inside and out, paying particular attention to grease and grime on burners (use an oven-specific cleaner for stubborn stains).
- Wipe down countertops, cupboards (inside and out), drawers, handles, fixtures, appliances (such as microwave), sink and taps.
- Sweep/vacuum/mop floors.
Bathroom
- Remove limescale from showerhead – soaking in white vinegar can be effective if necessary.
- Scrub bath tub/shower basin with a bathroom-friendly cleaning solution; bleach works well for mouldy areas or stubborn stains.
- Clean toilet bowl thoroughly using bleach or toilet cleaner; remember to also wipe down exterior surfaces such as the seat, lid and flush handle.
- Wipe down all surfaces including sink, taps, countertops, mirror and any inbuilt storage.
- Mop and disinfect floors.
Bedroom/Living Spaces
- Dust all surfaces, such as shelves, window sills and skirting boards.
- Vacuum around radiators or vents where dust tends to accumulate.
- Wash windows with a glass cleaner; do not forget sills/blinds/curtains if applicable.
- Clean any built-in cupboards or wardrobes (inside and out); do not neglect the top edges where dust can gather.
- Vacuum/mop floors ensuring you go under the bed or other large furniture items if they have not been moved during your tenancy
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A Final Walkthrough
Before handing over the keys, perform a final walkthrough of the property to ensure nothing has been missed or overlooked. Double-check that all appliances are functional and clean, keys to cupboards or windows are present, securely lock doors/windows. You may also wish to take photographs of each room for your records should there be any disputes regarding cleanliness later on.
Consider Hiring Professional Help
If time is limited or you are unable/unwilling to undertake cleaning duties yourself, consider hiring a professional end-of-tenancy cleaning service. They will ensure your property is left in immaculate condition while taking this responsibility off your hands – just make sure you book well in advance!
To conclude: being well-prepared and methodical in your approach will go a long way in ensuring a stress-free tenancy clean up that maximizes chances of receiving your full deposit back. Good luck!