Professional move out cleaning ensures you get your deposit back while leaving your old place spotless. This guide details the specific services provided, how to prepare your unit, and explains why hiring experts saves time and stress during your move.
Packing boxes is only half the battle; you also owe the landlord a spotless space. That means tackling chores you’ve skipped all year: scrubbing the grime off baseboards, digging into the fridge, clearing out the dirty tracks on your windows, and polishing every nook and cranny to a shine. Pros do these tricky, time-draining jobs thoroughly and faster than you could on a last-minute Saturday. They spend a standard 4 to 8 hours in the unit—depending on square footage—hitting the hidden corners you’ve ignored in regular cleanings.
Worried the place is too grimy to reclaim the deposit?
You are definitely not the only one. Lots of renters stress out when they realize their usual “quick wipe” won’t survive a landlord walk-through. Professional move out cleaning saves your sanity and your deposit. This guide outlines precisely what services to expect and how to make the process seamless.
Why Move-Out Cleaning Matters
Your security deposit is the cash cushion you rely on when you transition between homes. The National Apartment Association reports that 68 percent of renters forfeit part of their deposit because of insufficient cleaning. Hiring a professional move-out service protects that money and ensures you stick to the terms of your lease.
How Long Does Professional Move-Out Cleaning Take?
Typically, the job takes between 4-8 hours. A compact one-bedroom will likely be ready in 3-4 hours, while a three-bedroom house could require a solid six to eight hours.
8 Key Tasks Move-Out Cleaners Do
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Clean Kitchen Appliances, Inside and Out
Ovens, fridges, and microwaves need to be spotless in every drawer and corner. The crew uses powerful degreasers to wipe away set-in grease.
Why it matters: Landlords always check inside appliances. Stains and grease could cost you.
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Scrub Baseboards and Trim
Baseboards collect dust, pet hair, and scuffs. Cleaners attack every edge and touch up tiny nail holes to steer clear of expensive re-painting fees.
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Clean Inside All Cabinets and Drawers
You will want to take everything out of each cabinet and drawer, then give every surface a good wipe. Don’t skip the undersides of the shelves! Clean cabinets show you really looked after the place.
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Clean All Windows and Screens, Inside and Out
Professional window cleaning includes the frames, sills, and tracks. They remove soap scum, water spots, and built-up grime. The whole space will feel brighter and more inviting.
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Deep Clean Every Bathroom Fixture
Scrub the toilet tank and base, then treat the shower and tub for soap scum and mildew. Wipe every surface with disinfectant until everything shines. The whole room will smell clean and feel safe.
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Steam Clean or Hot-Water Extract All Carpets
Professional carpet cleaning removes stains, odors, and deep-set dirt that regular vacuuming can’t touch.
Where to Focus:
- High-traffic areas
- Pet stains
- Food spills
- Wear patterns
Choose: Steam cleaning for deep sanitization or dry cleaning for quick-drying results.
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Clean Air Ducts and Replace Filters
Grimy ducts and old filters send the wrong message. Have the vent covers scrubbed and new filters fitted to prove the property was genuinely looked after.
For comprehensive move out cleaning services professional teams polish every corner to meet your landlord’s expectations and save you time during your stressful moving period.
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Make Those Hardwood and Hard Surfaces Shine
A quick mop and go won’t impress a landlord. Seasoned cleaners strip away built-up wax, dig the dirt from between the planks, and apply a finish that brings the wood back to life.
Daily Task:
- Remove all scuff marks
- Clean baseboards where they meet flooring
- Address any water damage or staining
Pro Tip: Proper floor care can prevent charges for refinishing or replacement.
Sample Move Out Cleaning Timeline
| Task | Time Needed |
|
Kitchen deep clean (appliances, cabinets) |
2-3 hours |
| Bathroom sanitization and deep clean | 1-2 hours |
| Carpet cleaning or floor care | 1-2 hours |
| Window cleaning (interior/exterior) | 1 hour |
| Baseboards, trim, and detail work | 1 hour |
| Light fixtures and final inspection | 1 hour |
The Long-Term Benefits of Professional Move-Out Cleaning
Hiring a cleaning crew for the last sweep of your home makes the move much smoother:
- You maximize your deposit return potential
- You avoid multiple trips back for re-cleaning
- You meet all lease obligations professionally
- You maintain positive landlord references for future rentals
Bonus Psychological Offset: Peace of Mind
According to stress management specialists, hiring professionals for major life transitions like moving reduces cognitive load during already stressful times. With a crew scrubbing floors at midnight, you can pack and sleep soundly.
Preparation Steps Before Your Cleaning Team Arrives
- Remove all personal belongings completely
- Clear all surfaces for easy access
- Review your lease requirements with the team
- Provide any specific cleaning concerns
Ready to Secure Your Deposit Back?
Move-out cleaning doesn’t have to be a hassle. A professional team makes sure your apartment shines, so you can be sure you will get your deposit back.
Your new beginning should be free from deposit disputes. Let the cleaning pros do their thing so you can concentrate on moving. Reach out to ShenShine Cleaning today at https://shenshinecleaning.ca/ and let us take the stress out of your move out cleaning needs.
8 Common Questions About Move Out Cleaning Services (FAQs)
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How much does professional move out cleaning cost?
Charges depend on the size and condition of the home, but the savings on your deposit often cover the service.
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Do I need to be present during the cleaning?
Presence is not required. Many firms coordinate directly with property managers or can schedule service during your other moving tasks.
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What if my landlord still finds issues after professional cleaning?
Reputable firms often guarantee their work and will return to rectify legitimate issues at no additional cost.
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How far in advance should I book move out cleaning?
It is prudent to schedule the service 1 to 2 weeks in advance during peak seasons. At other times of the year, a notice period of three to five days will typically suffice.
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Do cleaning services bring their own supplies?
Absolutely– they come with all the cleaners, equipment, and tools they need, and those costs are built into the total price.
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Can move out cleaning be done the same day I move?
Yes, you can, but it’s usually better to have it scheduled after the movers are done so the cleaners can reach all the spaces easily and do a more complete job.
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What’s not included in standard move out cleaning?
Standard services typically don’t cover packing, moving furniture, major repairs, or cleaning anything left behind by the previous tenants.
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Will professional cleaning guarantee I get my full deposit back?
They can’t guarantee that you will get the entire deposit, but a thorough professional clean gives you the best shot at meeting all the requirements in your lease.