Discover 5 effective cleaning tips to make your move-out process easier and stress-free.
Moving out? It can be stressful and we most people know how just how much effort is needed to clean your rental before handing over the keys. It's rarely fun!
This article is designed to help tenants plan. How much cleaning is actulaly needed at an end of tenancy?
If you are not sure how much cleaning tenants actually need to legally do, we recommend checking out our blog that explains whats needed for tenants to get their bond back!
Before you begin the cleaning process, it's important to declutter and organise your stuff. It makes the cleaning process easier and helps you pack efficiently.
Start by going through each room and getting rid anything just collecting dust, or you no longer want. We suggest you donate to the Salvation army or another simular store, or sell these items to lreduce the cost of moving! Once you've decluttered, organise what's left to make it easier to clean and pack everything.
Property managers and owners love seeing a decluttered home - they see that you took care of the property and left it in good condition.
High-traffic areas in a rental property, such as hallways and entryways, tend to accumulate more dirt and grime. It's important to pay extra attention to these areas during your move-out cleaning. Start by thoroughly vacuuming or sweeping the floors to remove any loose dirt or debris. Then, use a mop or a microfiber cloth to clean the floors with a suitable cleaning solution. Pay close attention to corners, baseboards, and any visible stains. If necessary, spot clean the carpet or hire a professional carpet cleaner for a deep clean.
In addition to the floors, high-traffic areas may also include walls, doors, and light switches. Wipe down these surfaces with a mild cleaner to remove any fingerprints, marks, or smudges. By giving extra attention to these areas, you'll leave your rental property looking fresh and well-maintained.
When moving out of a rental property, it's essential to clean the appliances thoroughly. If the fridge is staying, start by removing all food items and shelves. Wipe down the interior with a mixture of water and mild dish soap. Don't forget to clean the shelves, drawers, and door seals. For stubborn stains or odors, you can use a baking soda paste or a vinegar solution.
Next, move on to the oven and stovetop. Movre on that below!
Other appliances, such as the dishwasher and washing machine, should also be cleaned if they are staying. Run a cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or vinegar to remove any residue or buildup. For the washing machine, run a cycle with hot water and vinegar to remove any mold or mildew. Don't forget to wipe down the exterior of all appliances to remove any fingerprints or stains.
Cleaning your oven is an essential part of the move-out process that often gets overlooked. However, neglecting to clean your oven can result in a buildup of grease and food residue, not to mention unpleasant odors. Your oven must be resaonably clean and tidy before your end of tenancy inpection.
To ensure that your oven is sparkling clean, start by removing any racks and soaking them in warm, soapy water. While the racks are soaking, use a damp cloth to wipe away any loose debris from the inside of the oven.
We recommend using a good brand of oven cleaner from the super market. Follow the instructions on the product to scrub the interior surfaces with a non-abrasive sponge or brush, paying extra attention to any particularly dirty areas. Finally, rinse the interior with a clean, damp cloth and reattach the racks. By following these steps, you can ensure that your oven is clean and ready for the next occupant.
If you don't have the "mojo" needed to get stuck in and srub that sucker clean, let your property manager know as they probably have a great oven cleaning contact they can pass onto you!
***TIP Do you have a self cleaning oven? If so, check the oven manual before using any cleaning products, or check in with your property manager to get the low-down.
Before handing over the keys to your rental property, make sure to finish with a thorough final clean. This includes cleaning all remaining rooms, surfaces, and fixtures. Pay attention to details such as light fixtures, ceiling fans, and blinds. Dust and wipe down all surfaces, including countertops, cabinets, and windowsills. Clean the bathroom thoroughly, including the toilet, shower, and sink. Don't forget to clean the mirrors and windows for a sparkling finish.
In the bedrooms, vacuum or sweep the floors and dust any furniture or shelves. Clean the windows and wipe down the window frames. In the living areas, vacuum or mop the floors and wipe down any furniture or surfaces. Finally, don't forget to clean the entryway and any outdoor spaces, such as balconies or patios. By leaving your rental property in a clean and pristine condition, bond release will be quick and you leave a positive impression on your landlord. (We love writing lovely property references!)
If you have any questions about the end of tenancy cleaning, or would like your rental property kept in great condition too, then please get in touch to chat about how we can help! 0272509626