Whether you’re settling into a new home or preparing to leave one behind, the moving process can be exhausting. Amid all the packing, paperwork, and planning, cleaning often becomes an afterthought, but it shouldn’t be.
A thorough move-in or move-out cleaning is essential to creating a fresh start or leaving a lasting impression. To help you through it, we’ve created the ultimate checklist so you don’t miss a single spot.
Why move-in and move-out cleaning matters?
Moving is one of life’s biggest transitions, and cleanliness plays a key role in the process. Whether you’re handing over the keys to a landlord or taking possession of your dream home, professional cleaning ensures the space is hygienic, welcoming, and free of surprises.
For tenants, a spotless apartment may mean getting your full security deposit back. For homeowners, it sets the tone for your new beginning. And for landlords and Airbnb hosts, it’s about maintaining high standards and guest satisfaction.
General cleaning essentials
These are the basics that apply to every room in the house. Start here:
- Dust all surfaces, including baseboards, shelves, and corners.
- Clean light fixtures, fans, and ceiling vents.
- Vacuum carpets and mop hard floors.
- Wipe down walls, doors, and switch plates.
- Empty and sanitize trash bins.
Pro tip: start cleaning from the top down to avoid re-dirtying areas you’ve already cleaned.
Kitchen cleaning checklist
The kitchen is one of the most-used and most-inspected rooms during a move, so don’t overlook any detail:
- Clean inside and outside of all cabinets and drawers.
- Wipe down countertops and backsplash.
- .Deep clean the sink and garbage disposal.
- Clean and disinfect inside the refrigerator and freezer.
- Scrub the oven, stovetop, and microwave.
- Clean the dishwasher and range hood.
Bathroom cleaning checklist
Hygiene matters most in bathrooms. Make sure these areas are spotless:
- Scrub and disinfect the toilet, shower, and tub.
- Clean sink, faucet, and vanity.
- Wipe mirrors and glass surfaces.
- Remove soap scum and hard water stains.
- Empty cabinets and wipe interior surfaces.
- Mop floors and sanitize all fixtures.
Bedroom and living areas
Even though these spaces may appear clean, dirt often hides in plain sight:
- Vacuum carpets and rugs thoroughly.
- Dust window sills and blinds.
- Wipe down closet interiors and doors.
- Clean inside drawers and shelves.
- Wash windows (inside).
Laundry room and utility spaces
Don’t forget the often-overlooked spaces:
- Clean washer and dryer (including lint trap).
- Wipe down counters and cabinets.
- Mop floors and check behind appliances.
- Sanitize utility sink if present.
Exterior touches (optional but impressive)
If applicable, give some attention to outdoor areas to leave a lasting impression:
- Sweep the porch or balcony.
- Wipe down entry doors.
- Remove cobwebs from entryways.
- Clean exterior light fixtures.
Feeling overwhelmed? Let AA Cleaning handle it for you
A proper move-in or move-out cleaning goes beyond wiping counters and vacuuming floors. It’s about ensuring a clean slate. Whether you’re moving on or moving in. With a detailed checklist and the help of professionals like AA Cleaning, you can rest easy knowing no spot has been missed.
If this checklist seems long, that’s because move-in and move-out cleaning is truly comprehensive. But you don’t have to tackle it alone.
AA Cleaning specializes in detailed move-in and move-out services throughout South Shore, MA. With over 20 years of experience, we know how to clean every corner to perfection. Whether you’re a tenant aiming for your full deposit back or a new homeowner wanting a spotless start, we’re here to help.
What makes our move-in & move-out service different?
- We clean inside appliances, cabinets, and closets.
- We bring our own eco-friendly products and equipment.
- We offer same-day and next-day appointments.
- We customize the service based on the size and condition of the home.
Ready to book?
Let your next move be stress-free, spotless, and simple. We’ll take care of the mess so you can focus on the move.