The Real Cost of Skipping a Deep Clean Before You Move Out of Your Apartment
You've filled out the boxes, written on the labels in that arrogant Sharpie script, and perhaps double-taped the “fragile” ones—just in case you know how movers operate. But then you pause in the middle of tape roll and think. the apartment still feels inhabited. Crumbs in the kitchen drawers, scuffs on the baseboards, that mysterious spot in the shower that both exists and looks fixed. That’s when the big question arises: Do I really deep clean prior to moving out? As Chicago’s preferred deep cleaning company, we've assisted literally hundreds of renters (and homeowners) at that very juncture—and heck, there’s a smart way to do it and not go crazy.
Why Deep Cleaning Before Vacating Makes Such a Difference
Here’s the thing: Your landlord’s not just “checking out” the property when you move out. He’s checking. And that security deposit you’re counting on getting back? It’s attached to the condition of the apartment after you’re gone. Deep cleaning encompasses the type of dirt you cease to be aware of living somewhere—grit in light switches, dust in ceiling fan blades, crumbs behind the stove.
Plus, it’s not just about money. Leaving your place spotless is a courtesy to the next person who’ll call it home. You wouldn’t want to unpack your things in a place that feels like it still belongs to someone else, right?
Kitchen Deep Cleaning Checklist Before Move Out
Kitchens are where landlords become finicky—because crumbs and grease lurk in every spot. Begin by clearing out and wiping cabinets out and in. Wipe inside of drawers, too (even the “junk” one). Clear out the fridge, then wipe shelves and containers with warm, soapy water. Wipe down the oven and cooktop until they’re spotless of burnt-on food. Don’t ignore the backsplash—splatter and spills stash there. Finish up by sweeping and mopping the floor, getting into corners where dust tends to reside.
Pro tip: get appliances out if you can—food particles and dust accumulate behind them like a reunion area.
Bathroom Deep Cleaning Checklist When Moving Out
Bathrooms are make-or-break for move-out inspections. Scrub the tub or shower thoroughly, focusing on soap scum and any mildew. Clean grout lines—sometimes a baking soda paste works wonders. Shine the sink and faucet until they look brand new. Wipe down mirrors without streaks. Scrub the toilet inside and out, especially the base where dust and hair can collect. Lastly, sweep and mop the floor, and make sure vents or exhaust fans are dust-free.
And if there’s limescale buildup, now’s the fix you—you’d be amazed at how much nicer faucets look after.
Living Room & Bedroom Deep Cleaning Checklist Before Moving Out
Start with the ceilings and work your way down. Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures. Wipe walls where fingerprints or scuffs are visible. Remove nails or hooks carefully and fill in small holes. Clean windows, sills, and blinds. Vacuum the carpets thoroughly—or better yet, have them professionally cleaned. If you have hardwood or laminate floors, sweep first and then mop with the appropriate cleaner.
Don’t forget closets—wipe shelves, vacuum floor inside, and be sure they’re totally empty.
Commonly Missed Spots During Move-Out Cleaning
Even the most detail-oriented people miss these:
Inside the dishwasher and washing machine (mildew smell can cost you points)
Behind the toilet base
Top of the fridge and cabinets
Window tracks and sliding door rails
Light switch plates and outlet covers
Baseboards (dust loves horizontal surfaces)
If you address these, you’re already ahead of most renters.
DIY vs. Hiring Professionals for Move-Out Cleaning
You can deep clean yourself—if you've got time, resources, and energy. Moving, though, can be exhausting, and you don't really want to clean after you've packed. Experts (like our Sparkly Maid team) have techniques and gear that get the job done faster and on a broader scale. And we know exactly what landlords inspect for, so nothing gets left to chance.
Once in a while, hiring professionals to clean costs less than the chunk of cash your landlord can take out of you if you mess up.
How Deep Cleaning Helps with Security Deposits
Most leases specify in writing that you must leave the house in “the same condition” as when you first arrived—except for normal wear and tear. That includes no dirt, no spots, no heavy-duty dust. Even minute cleaning mistakes can give landlords an excuse to dock you a “cleaning fee” out of your deposit.
A deep clean through and through is insurance for your money. It’s also verification, should you need to provide it, that you exited the space in great condition.
The Psychology of Waking Up to a Neat Place Behind You
Moving's stressful enough without adding “hope the landlord is happy” to your list of worries. When you deep clean before you go, you depart feeling you've done your part. There's no worry of follow-up email or hidden fees.
And let’s be honest—it’s wonderful to enjoy an area one last time, almost as if to give it a proper sendoff before you embark on your new journey.
Scheduling Your Deep Cleaning to Accommodate Move-Out
Best of all, plan to deep clean once everything has been packed up and moved out. This way, you're not cleaning around furniture or boxes and you can get into all the nooks and crannies. If you're having professionals in, schedule them for the day after movers, which is the ideal spot for a really deep clean.
If you are doing it yourself, block out a good chunk of time—most apartmentstake at least half a day to deep clean effectively, but possibly longer if you haven’t done a deep scrub in ages.
Do You Need to Deep Clean Even If the Landlord Promises to Do It?
Certain landlords require a set cleaning fee based on the condition you're in when you move out. That said, you shouldn’t forgo cleaning. It can still get you into trouble and cost you extra for “excessive” mess or repair. What’s more, if you ever require a rental reference, closing out on a positive note can be helpful.
The Sparkly Maid Move-Out Cleaning Advantage
We at Sparkly Maid have made “last-minute panic cleaning” a smooth, hassle-free experience. We employ green products, thorough checklists, and methods landlords love to see. It matters not if you have a studio apartment or a multi-bedroom apartment. We can get it sparkling, just as if you just moved in—yet cleaner.
Final Remarks – It's Worth It to Deep Clean
Skipping a deep clean in preparation to move out can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. It’s best done correctly—either alone or assisted—so you can have a smoother move and a better chance of receiving full deposit back. It’s also a considerate way to end the chapter.
To get it done properly and promptly, we can assist. Book Sparkly Maid and we'll take the worry off your to-do list, so you can focus on the best part—your new home. When Sparkly Maid’s cleaning house prior to you moving out, you can be guaranteed a sparkling farewell and a confident hello to what’s next.
FAQ – Fast and Friendly
Do I really need to clean if my landlord employs cleaners?
Yes—since “cleaners” could imply a swift sweep, not an overall deep clean. You don’t want to incur possible extra charges.
What’s the most important room to clean for a move-out?
It’s the hardest and the most watched. The kitchen.
How long does a move-out deep clean take?
Typically for apartment roofs, 4–6 hours DIY, or 2–4 hours for a professional team. Yes, Sparkly maid can clean up as you still shuffle boxes. We recommend after everything’s out—it’s faster, cleaner, and you get a better result.
