## Why Should You Use A Move-Out Guide?
When moving into a new home, or even to another state, having a defined plan will help keep you on track and organized for move-out and greatly reduce your stress. Learn more about how a move-out cleaning guide or checklist can help you remember your tasks and stay focused.
### Remembering Your Tasks
Keeping a list of your tasks takes all the guesswork out of packing, move-out cleaning, and setting up your new space. 

Did you know that humans can only remember about 7 tasks or items at one time? This is the reason why our phone number is 7 digits long. We tend to forget information if we have more than 7 tasks on our minds. 

To ensure you don’t forget the big and little move-out tasks on your plate, write down your own specific plan or use a move-out cleaning guide template from the internet. 
### Staying Focused
A move-out checklist or guide is the perfect way to stay focused on your moving schedule. 

These tools keep all the tasks you need to complete in one convenient place. Instead of waiting and asking yourself the question “what should I do next?”, you can simply take a look at your move-out checklist and start on one task after another.
## Download Our Free Move-Out Cleaning Guide
To help you get started and stay organized during your move-out, we have created a downloadable checklist. It’s great for tenants who are finished packing and ready to complete their move-out or for landlords who are evaluating a tenant’s move-out cleaning.

We included tasks commonly included in standard move-out cleanings and provided free spaces for you to write in your own items specific to your property. 

![Free Move-Out Checklist - Moveout.com](https://api.moveout.com/uploads/Free_Move_Out_Checklist_Moveout_54ad35c212.com)
[**Download Our Free Move-Out Guide**](https://api.moveout.com/uploads/Free_Move_Out_Checklist_Moveout_com_25d751c521.pdf)
## How to Use Our Move-Out Cleaning Guide for Tenants
Our guide utilizes a top-down approach, as this is generally the preferred way to conduct a move-out cleaning. 

When you start cleaning, dust will slowly fall from the top of the home to the bottom. This is why the floor gets dirty after you clean your cabinets or tables, even if you vacuum or mop the floor beforehand. Cleaning starting from the top to the bottom will achieve a better result. 

Our checklist follows this same principle starting from the ceiling, to the walls, and ending with the floor.
### Adding Due Dates to Your Move-Out Guide
Just like homework for school, you should set due dates on your move-out checklist to help you stay focused and complete tasks on time. 

Some move-out guides recommend starting to prepare for your move 1 to 2 months in advance. This will allow you to take your time and avoid rushing, especially if something unforeseen pops up, such as getting sick. It also helps ensure that you don’t have to extend your stay with your current landlord and pay extra. 
## Understand the Other Side of Moving Out
As a tenant, you have to understand that your landlord wants you to move out as quickly as possible so they can rent the place out quickly. To do this, they may need to do repairs, renovations, or other home improvements before the next tenants come in. 

They are likely not earning any rent at this time but are spending a lot of money on completing these fix-ups. Some landlords rely on rent as part or all of their income, so be understanding and make a plan to move out on time. 

On the other hand, landlords must understand that their tenants are not only moving out but also trying to move into their new home before their lease ends. There are various tasks on their plate that will need to be completed before they move into their new home. 

Whether you’re a tenant or landlord, a move-out cleaning guide will help set expectations and make the moving process as stress-free as possible.
## Whatever You Do, Have a Plan for Your Move-Out
A move-out is inherently stressful, with having to keep track of all your items and making sure you move out on time. Download and print our move-out cleaning guide for tenants to help you remember all your tasks, keep you focused, and save you time. 

If you need more information to help with your move-out, [check out our other resources](https://www.moveout.com/blog).

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There are a lot of things you need to do before you move out of your current home. From boxing up your belongings to moving big appliances to cleaning each room from top to bottom — what is the best way to keep track of your progress and move out on time? Fear not, our move-out guide for tenants is here to help!

Move-Out Cleaning Guide for Tenants

## What to Expect With Your Move-Out Cleaning

Considering hiring a professional cleaning company to help reduce the stress of moving out? Here, we’ve compiled a list of what’s included in a move-out cleaning service to give you an idea of how your former home will be cleaned. 

**Your move-out cleaning service may include:**

- Hardwood, laminate, and tile floors have been swept and mopped
- Carpet has been vacuumed
- Mirrors and interior windows have been cleaned with glass cleaner
- Window sills and tracks have been cleaned
- Blinds have been dusted
- Doors, door frames, and baseboards have been wiped down
- Pantry and closet spaces have been swept or vacuumed
- Light fixtures and ceiling fans dusted
- Light switch and outlet covers have been wiped down 
- Air vents have been dusted
- Stovetop, overhead fan, and oven have been cleaned
- Kitchen and bathroom countertops and sinks have been sanitized
- Toilet, shower, and bathtub have been cleaned
- Built-in drawers and cabinets have been wiped down
- Walls have been wiped

Ensuring that each of these tasks has been completed can help you get your security deposit back and leave with great references from your landlord for your next property. Additionally, proper move-out cleaning can help attract more prospective buyers or renters.


## Which Type of Move-Out Cleaning Do I Need? 

Now that we have listed what a typical move-out cleaning service includes, we can consider which type of move-out cleaning you may need when hiring a professional cleaning service. 

Many cleaning service companies will ask how often you vacuum your floors, when the last time you deep cleaned was if you have any pets that shed around your home, etc. This information allows the company to estimate the time and cost of your cleaning. Move-out house cleaning types generally include standard cleaning and premium cleaning.

## Standard Move-Out Cleaning 

![unnamed (12).jpg](https://api.moveout.com/uploads/unnamed_12_54fd9ebfd2.jpg)

Moving out on a tight budget? If you simply need to satisfy the basic cleaning criteria outlined in your lease or sale, choosing a standard cleaning may be your best option. 

In order to know if a standard move-out cleaning is the right type for you, ask yourself these questions:

- How often did you maintain your living spaces, kitchen, and bathrooms? 
- Is there any built-up dirt or grime in the kitchen or bathrooms? 
- Is the build-up mild, moderate, or severe? 

In most cases, a standard move-out house cleaning is only recommended when your former home requires dusting, vacuuming, sweeping, mopping, and tidying up.

If you are aiming for standard move-out cleaning and wish to start cleaning yourself to avoid extra charges for additional cleaning services, check out our move-out cleaning checklist.

## Premium Move-Out Cleaning 
![unnamed (13).jpg](https://api.moveout.com/uploads/unnamed_13_623a8d7cfe.jpg)


**A premium move-out cleaning service may be best for your situation if:**

- You did not clean frequently
- There are stains, grease splatters, mold, bugs, etc. in your kitchen or bathrooms
- You want to guarantee absolute satisfaction and avoid a cleaning re-do 

Fortunately, a premium cleaning service involves cleaning additional appliances and areas in your home that a standard move-out cleaning would not typically cover. A deep move-out house cleaning may include thorough wall scrubbing, carpet shampooing, floor polishing, cleaning appliances, and deep cleaning the bathrooms.  

When you’re considering what cleaning company to hire for your move-out, ask for more information or a checklist regarding what the company includes in each of their cleaning packages.

## How to Coordinate Hiring a Professional Move-Out Cleaner 

Whether you’re considering a standard or premium move-out cleaning service, it’s important to keep in mind that not every cleaning company includes all the services you may be looking for. For example, some businesses may not offer carpet, patio, or garage cleaning, etc.

To better coordinate hiring a professional move-out cleaner, you can do the following.
Ask for Referrals
Ask for suggestions, recommendations, or referrals from family and friends who have moved houses before. They may have hired professional move-out cleaners from a specific company and are knowledgeable about the type of cleaning services they offer. 

Usually, they can refer you to a business that they trust and have developed a relationship with. 
Call the Company
In addition to checking out a move-out cleaning company’s website, you may also want to ask more specific questions over the phone.

![unnamed (14).jpg](https://api.moveout.com/uploads/unnamed_14_2d7ada233d.jpg)


For example, it can be a huge time-saver to ask which services a company doesn’t offer. You can then move on to another company that offers what you need. Communicating over the phone is also helpful when setting and agreeing on a reasonable, fair price. 
Read Reviews
Often, former clients leave reviews about their experience with the company they hired for their cleaning services. You may read former clients’ reviews to make sure you're choosing the right move-out cleaning service for you. 

By reading reviews online, you may also encounter a comment that gives a preview of what that specific company does or does not include in their service. This will provide a better idea of which companies will give you a better bang for your buck.

## Learn More About Move-Out Cleaning Services
From knowing what a move-out cleaning service includes, the type of cleaning your home needs, and how to coordinate hiring a professional cleaning service, you are saving more time and energy to fully focus on your new home. You can sit back and relax with the excitement of setting up your new space just the way you want it.

To learn more about move-out cleaning services and hiring professional cleaners, visit our other resources.


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Are you planning a move to a new house or apartment? If so, your landlord, the future tenants of your current home — and you — will benefit from the services of a professional cleaning company. We’re here to help you learn what a move-out cleaning service includes and which type of cleaning is best for you. 

What Does a Move-Out Cleaning Service Include? 

## What Is a Move-Out Cleaning? 
Before we dive into our move-out checklist, let us first clarify what a move-out cleaning is. Typically, a move-out cleaning includes a detailed and thorough checklist of everything that needs to be cleaned — from your doorstep to the very last corner of your home. 

Incorporating a move-out cleaning before handing your keys to your landlord or home buyer will help you feel accomplished moving to your next home. Showing that your former home is well taken care of will excite and delight your landlord or new occupants as well. 

Not to mention, you’re much more likely to get back every penny of your security deposit check. 

### Do I Need a Professional Move-Out Cleaning? 
If you don’t have enough time, energy, money, or cleaning supplies to ensure your former home is spotless, you might need a professional move-out cleaner. 

By booking move-out cleaning services, you’ll get the most detailed type of cleaning done by professional cleaners who have all the essential equipment and approved cleaning methods. Explore our site for more details about hiring a professional move-out cleaner to give you peace of mind and ensure a stress-free beginning to the next chapter in your life. 

Now that we have evaluated what a move-out cleaning is and whether or not you need professional cleaning, let’s discuss what is included in a typical move-out clean. 

### Living Room and Bedroom Move-Out Checklist
- Mirrors are streak-free
- Window sills and window tracks are dust-, dirt-, and mold-free
- Baseboards’ buildup are wiped or vacuumed 
- Door frames are cleaned and doorknobs are sanitized
- Light switches are wiped to remove finger oils and germs
- Walls are smudge-free 
- Garbage has been emptied 
- Carpet and hardwood floor areas are vacuumed 
- Closets don’t have accumulated dust

![unnamed (6).jpg](https://api.moveout.com/uploads/unnamed_6_d7ab4f8de9.jpg)

## Kitchen Move-Out Checklist
- Appliances such as stovetop, oven, refrigerator, freezer, microwave, dishwasher, range hood, etc. look as good as new 
- Countertops and shelves are dusted 
- Backsplash is wiped and smudge-free
- Cabinet interiors and exteriors are wiped and sanitized
- Sink and drain don’t have stains, rust, or food splatters
- Light switches are sanitized
- Floor is swept and mopped to remove splashed oil and other food stains

![unnamed (8).jpg](https://api.moveout.com/uploads/unnamed_8_5056a7c591.jpg)
## Bathroom Move-Out Checklist 
- Sink, bathtub, shower walls, and glass doors are spotless and sanitized
- Toilet and toilet seat have no stains or odors
- Mirrors are streak-free
- Cabinets, countertops, and shelves are wiped and dusted
- Inside window sills and window tracks are cleaned 
- Doorknobs, door frames, and doors are wiped and sanitized 
- Light switches are sanitized
- Garbage has been emptied and the garbage can is clean
- Floor is vacuumed/swept and mopped

![unnamed (9).jpg](https://api.moveout.com/uploads/unnamed_9_22fe64a1cc.jpg)

Keep in mind, before you work through your moveout checklist, you’ll need to pack up your belongings. Save money by finding free moving boxes in your area before you start cleaning. 
## Boxes, Boxes, Boxes: Where Can You Get Them for Free? 

![unnamed (10).jpg](https://api.moveout.com/uploads/unnamed_10_e68d808567.jpg)

To be able to clean each and every corner of your former home, you’ll need to organize and pack up your belongings. Cleaning will be much easier and more efficient if your living space is empty. 

Small, medium, large boxes? You might need all sizes! Not everyone stores boxes from prior packages or gifts. The good news: You likely won’t have to spend a penny on them. 

Here are the best places to find free moving boxes so you can stay within your move-out budget:

1. **Local Restaurants and Shops:**
Many restaurants get their essentials and produce delivered almost every morning each week. When you stop to buy food to support a local restaurant, feel free to ask the employees if they have left-over boxes.  Most of the time, local business owners and employees are willing to give away extra boxes. Doing so can save them from having to spend time disposing of the boxes elsewhere. 

2. **Retail Stores:**
It is expected that your local Walmart, Target, Costco, and other retail stores have shipments delivered every day. During your next errand trip to one of these stores, make sure to ask for free boxes — there’s likely plenty in the back. 

3. **Book Stores:**
In addition to Barnes and Noble bookstores, you can also visit your local university to ask for free boxes. Books, university merchandise, and other supplies are delivered to these bookstores frequently, causing dozens of boxes to pile up in their storage. 

4. **Facebook Community Groups/Marketplace:**
More often than not, when you post to ask for moving supplies on Facebook Community groups, many generous and friendly people are willing to give you what you need. 
Additionally, by searching “free boxes” and filtering your location for easy pick-up on Facebook Marketplace, you will be surprised by the number of people that are willing to give away free stuff. 

5. **Office Supply Stores:**
Office Depot, Office Max, FedEx Office Print and Ship Center, and other office supply stores get shipments every week. By asking permission to take extra free boxes off their hands, they will likely be glad to share as many as they can. 

## Simplify Your Move With a Move-Out Checklist
Having a moveout checklist on hand can make cleaning much easier and ensure you’re not missing anything important. A comprehensive checklist will guide you through each step of the cleaning process and help you transform your former home into better condition. 

That said, moving requires other time-consuming to-dos, including packing, decluttering, and planning. You can always hire professional cleaners to save you the hassle and ensure your former home will be in good hands. Additionally, if you’re renting and hoping to get a full security deposit refund, hiring a professional move-out cleaner may be worth it. 

To find out more details about hiring move-out cleaning professionals or other tips for moving, [explore our other blog posts](https://www.moveout.com/blog). All the best to you, and happy moving!


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Preparing to move out soon? Whether ending a lease or selling your house, planning to get through the next few weeks of moving can be frustrating. Leaving your former home in excellent condition to get your security deposit check back or as a courtesy to the next owners is always almost necessary. Our move-out checklist will help keep you on track for a smooth and worry-free move. 

Moving Out? Why You Need a Move-Out Checklist

## Do You Need a Professional Move-Out Cleaning?
Cleaning in preparation for moving is time-consuming and difficult to get right. Hiring professionals to do your cleaning will not only reduce the stress of moving out but will also give you more time to move into your new home. Additionally, it can increase the chance of getting your security deposit back. 

This all makes professional move-out cleaning attractive — however, move-out cleaning doesn’t always come cheap.

So what determines the cost of your move-out cleaning? How much should your move-out cleaning cost? What is included for that price you are paying? What extra charges might you run into?

Let us answer these questions for you below.
## What Determines Your Move-Out Cleaning Cost?
Your move-out cleaning cost is determined by different factors: the size of the property, your location, appliances, and places you want to be cleaned. 

Size is the main factor, as cleaning services will charge different prices depending on the size of your rental property. If you have a studio, one-, or two-bedroom apartment, it will cost you less. If you have three or more bedrooms, the cleaning service will charge you more based on the number of rooms and the square footage.

Your city or state will greatly affect the price as well. It typically costs $140+ for a one-bedroom standard cleaning, but a move-out cleaning will cost extra, with prices varying by state.

For example, if you have a one-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles, California, or Dallas, Texas, you can expect to pay around $200 for a move-out cleaning. For residents of New York City, New York, or Honolulu, Hawaii, move-out cleaning prices are going to be higher. For New York City, the price is $240+ to clean a one-bedroom, and for Honolulu, it’s $300+.
 
The last factor that determines your move-out cleaning cost is the additional appliances and spaces you want to be cleaned. Basic cleaning services, such as dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and disinfecting, are included with your move-out cleaning. However, the cleaning service provider may charge extra to clean items like the inside of the refrigerator, oven, interior walls, carpet, etc. 
## How Much Should Your Move-Out Cleaning Cost?
Now that you know what determines the cost of your move-out cleaning, how much should you expect to pay for your property? 

The list below shows an estimated average price range for move-out cleaning services in various types of properties. 

- **Studio:** $100 to $270
- **One-bedroom:** $120 to $400
- **Two-bedroom:** $150 to $450
- **Three-bedroom:** $180 to $500
- **Additional bedrooms:** +$30 to $50

The price range is based on the lowest standard price to the highest cost with all services included. Some cleaning services will offer one price to do all cleaning, however, most will have a base price with add-ons or a la carte options available. There is also another cost you may want to include: tips.
### Tipping Your Cleaners
In the service industry, tipping is a regular practice used to show gratitude and appreciation for your service. 

The general rule for tipping is 15% to 20% of the total bill, but adding a 20% tip onto a $300 cleaning service can be a considerable amount. In this case, leaving a smaller tip can make a good impression should you require their service again in the future while still being cognizant of your budget. 

For newer cleaning companies, you may not be expected to tip, as they are likely more employee-conscious and pay higher wages. That said, it's still a good gesture to leave a tip to show gratitude.

![professional cleaner cleaning a kitchen.jpg](https://api.moveout.com/uploads/professional_cleaner_cleaning_a_kitchen_2dd1d889d0.jpg)

## Things You Can Do to Reduce Move-Out Cleaning Costs 
You may be able to reduce your move-out cleaning costs by cleaning certain areas of your house before the professionals come in. While deep-cleaning the carpet, bathrooms, and kitchen may be better handled by a cleaning company, you’ll likely be able to clean things like the windows, refrigerator, and garage with household cleaning supplies you already own.  

There are numerous move-out cleaning checklists online that you can follow before moving to save a few bucks. 
## Getting a Professional Move-Out Cleaning: Priceless
You may not think it’s necessary to pay for professional cleaning when you move out, but it comes with several benefits. Hiring a professional cleaner will save you time that could be better spent on moving into your new home. 

Additionally, the better condition you leave your former home, the higher the possibility of getting your security deposit back. Your landlord may even require you to pay for a professional move-out cleaning and ask for proof that it’s been done. Make sure to check your lease before you leave.

To learn more about the benefits of hiring a professional cleaning company, [check out our other resources](https://www.moveout.com/blog).

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Are you struggling to get your place cleaned up for move-out inspection? It could be time to hire a cleaning professional. But how much should a move-out cleaning cost?

Everything you need to know about move-out cleaning

Your destination for move-out cleaning service information

Move-out cleaning articles and resources from our blog

What to do, how to do it, and where to start with your move-out cleaning

Answers from trusted professionals to the most frequent move-out cleaning questions

Move-out cleaning articles and resources from our blog

What to do, how to do it, and where to start with your move-out cleaning

Move-Out Cleaning Guide for Tenants

What Does a Move-Out Cleaning Service Include?

Moving Out? Why You Need a Move-Out Checklist

How Much Should a Move-Out Cleaning Cost You?

Answers from trusted professionals to the most frequent move-out cleaning questions

Move-Out Cleaning Guide for Tenants

What Does a Move-Out Cleaning Service Include?

Moving Out? Why You Need a Move-Out Checklist

How Much Should a Move-Out Cleaning Cost You?