Steps For Cleaning After Moving Out Of Your Home

Are you preparing to move out of your home? If so, you likely are soon to face the daunting task of cleaning up the mess that is almost always left behind after you remove your possession. If you are renting, this is a crucial step, as most landlords will withhold your security deposit for leaving debris and other items behind. Instead of dreading this task, embrace it with an organized step-by-step list of smaller tasks to help break the process up somewhat. You also don't have to go to a great expense to clean the home. Simply get some microfiber cloths, some all-purpose cleaner in a spray bottle, and a vacuum cleaner and get started.

Remove Every Piece Of Debris

The first step is simply removing anything left after you have removed your furniture and personal items. This includes any extra furniture pieces you don't plan to take with you, garbage, or old appliances that belong to you that no longer work. Be sure to properly dispose of these items based on the rules in your municipality, such as disposing of paint cans or refrigerators in the proper ways. Check inside the closet, the basement and attic, and other inconspicuous places you may have forgotten about.

Dust Every Surface Of The Home

To leave the home in immaculate condition, take the time to dust it entirely. This will include dusting the walls, ceilings, and ceiling fans. This process can be very fast once the home is completely empty. Simply take a microfiber cloth or static duster and wipe down all surfaces. Also thoroughly vacuum the floors, carpeting, and baseboards. You may also need to remove window blinds or window treatments and wash them well with soap and water.

Thoroughly Clean The Bathroom And Kitchen

Next, do a thorough cleaning of the bathroom and kitchen. Wipe down any soap scum from the tub, wipe down the sinks and faucets, and vacuum out the drawers. Also be sure to clean all mirrors and countertops. In the kitchen, clean the stovetop and inside the oven if there is some buildup. Check the drains and remove anything you may be able to see, such as old soap fragments or clumps of hair. Also, run some water in the sink to ensure the water drains properly.

Also clean out the refrigerator and wipe down the top and doors. If the refrigerator is stainless steel, be certain to use the correct type of cleanser. Many models require a specific cleaning solution to prevent streaks and scratching. Be sure to wipe down all of the cabinets inside and out as well. Remove and replace the shelf lining paper and vacuum the cabinets well.

Replace Light Bulbs

One extra thing you can do is replace any light bulbs that are burned out as part of your cleaning process. While this is not necessarily a cleaning chore, it is a piece of home maintenance that you can help with before leaving. Walk around the house and check the bulbs in each room. Don't forget to check inside closets also.

Taking the time to clean your home when you are moving out is not only a requirement for many landlords and mortgage companies, it is also the nice thing to do for the person or family moving in after you. If you are not looking forward to this process, you do have the option of hiring a cleaning company to take care of this for you. You will need to call different companies to see which ones provide this service. There are even some companies who specialize in cleaning out homes after people move out, so that is another option to consider once you plan to move.