Tips for Deep Cleaning an Apartment Before Moving Out from Travis Nord's blog

Deep cleaning an apartment before moving out is an important step to ensure the return of your security deposit. Landlords and property managers will often check areas that tenants tend to overlook, so paying extra attention to these spots can make a big difference. A thorough cleaning doesn’t just help with getting your deposit back, but it also leaves a good impression, which can be beneficial if you ever need a rental reference in the future. To make sure everything is properly cleaned, it’s important to focus on areas that are easy to forget during regular cleaning routines.

Start with the kitchen, where a lot of grime can build up over time. Pay attention to areas like the inside of the oven, stovetop, and refrigerator. Grease and food spills can accumulate in these spaces, and cleaning them thoroughly will likely be one of the first things the landlord inspects. Be sure to clean under and behind the appliances if possible, as dust and debris can often hide there. Cabinets and drawers should also be wiped down inside and out, as crumbs and spills are common in these areas. Don’t forget the sink, including the faucet and drain, which can collect grime that’s easily missed in daily cleaning.

Next, focus on the bathroom, which also requires special attention. Clean the shower or tub, ensuring that any soap scum or mildew is removed. The toilet should be scrubbed, and don’t forget to wipe down the base, which can often get overlooked. Mirrors, countertops, and sinks should also be wiped down, and any stains or watermarks should be removed. While cleaning, make sure to inspect the grout between tiles, as dirty grout can make the bathroom look less clean even if everything else is spotless.

Another area that’s commonly missed is the baseboards and walls. Over time, dust and scuff marks can accumulate on baseboards, making them look dirty. Wipe down the baseboards with a damp cloth. If there are any scuffs or marks on the walls, it’s a good idea to clean or gently scrub them off. Some landlords might expect a fresh coat of paint, but often, cleaning the walls can be enough to get the deposit back.

Windows are another area that can be forgotten. Make sure to clean both the inside and outside of windows, if accessible, to remove smudges or streaks. Don’t forget the window tracks and sills, which can collect dust and dirt.

Finally, focus on the floors. Whether the apartment has carpet, hardwood, or tile, it’s important to clean them thoroughly. Carpets may need to be vacuumed and shampooed to remove stains or odors, while hardwood and tile should be swept and mopped. Pay attention to corners and under furniture, as these spots often get overlooked. Ensuring that the floors are spotless can leave a positive impression on the landlord.

Once the apartment is cleaned and ready for inspection, you’ll feel more confident about getting your deposit back. And when you’re moving, maybe into these two-bedroom apartments in Reno NV, knowing that you left your previous apartment in great shape will make the process smoother.