Moving is stressful enough without worrying about your security deposit. In San Diego's competitive rental market, deposits often equal one to two months' rent—money you'll want back. The key to maximizing your chances of getting your full deposit returned? A thorough move-out cleaning that leaves your unit in pristine condition.
This comprehensive checklist covers every area your landlord will inspect. Whether you're DIY cleaning or hiring professionals, use this guide to ensure nothing is missed.
Move-Out Cleaning Process
Create a Timeline
Start cleaning 3-5 days before your move-out date. Schedule the deep cleaning for the day after furniture removal and at least one day before your final walkthrough.
Gather Supplies
Stock up on all-purpose cleaner, degreaser, glass cleaner, bathroom cleaner, magic erasers, microfiber cloths, mop, vacuum, and trash bags.
Start with the Kitchen
Clean inside oven, refrigerator, dishwasher, and microwave. Wipe down all cabinet fronts and interiors. Degrease range hood. Clean countertops, backsplash, and sink.
Deep Clean Bathrooms
Scrub shower/tub, toilet inside and out, sink and vanity. Clean mirrors, medicine cabinet, and exhaust fan. Remove any soap scum or hard water stains.
Clean All Closets
Wipe down shelves and rods. Vacuum or sweep floors. Clean any marks on walls. Don't forget the coat closet and pantry.
Address Walls and Doors
Remove scuff marks with magic eraser. Fill small nail holes with spackle. Clean door frames, light switches, and outlet covers.
Clean Windows and Blinds
Wash all windows inside. Clean blinds or dust curtain rods. Wipe down window sills and tracks.
Final Floor Cleaning
Vacuum all floors including closets and corners. Mop hard floors. Pay attention to baseboards throughout.
Walk-Through Inspection
Do a final walk-through with your checklist. Take photos of each room for your records. Check inside all cabinets and closets.
Room-by-Room Checklist
🍳 Kitchen
- Clean inside oven and stovetop
- Wipe down range hood and filters
- Clean inside refrigerator and freezer
- Run empty dishwasher with cleaner
- Clean inside microwave
- Wipe all cabinet interiors
- Clean cabinet fronts
- Sanitize countertops
- Clean sink and faucets
- Wipe down backsplash
- Clean floors and baseboards
🚿 Bathroom(s)
- Scrub shower/tub thoroughly
- Clean shower doors/curtain rod
- Sanitize toilet inside and out
- Clean sink and vanity
- Polish faucets and fixtures
- Clean mirrors
- Wipe down exhaust fan
- Clean medicine cabinet
- Sweep and mop floors
- Clean baseboards
🛏️ Bedroom(s)
- Dust ceiling fan and light fixtures
- Clean inside closet (shelves, rod)
- Wipe down window sills
- Clean windows inside
- Remove marks from walls
- Clean door and door frame
- Vacuum floors and closet
- Clean baseboards
🛋️ Living Areas
- Dust all surfaces and fixtures
- Clean windows inside
- Wipe window sills and blinds
- Clean light switches and outlets
- Remove wall marks
- Clean front door inside
- Vacuum or mop all floors
- Clean baseboards throughout
Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Deposit Return
- Document everything: Take photos of each room before and after cleaning.
- Request a pre-inspection: Ask your landlord for a walkthrough before your final move-out date.
- Keep receipts: If you hire professional cleaners, keep the receipt as proof of cleaning.
- Check your lease: Review specific cleaning requirements in your rental agreement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't clean before moving out?
Landlords typically deduct professional cleaning costs from your security deposit. This often costs more than hiring cleaners yourself due to markups. Leaving a property dirty may also affect your rental references.
How much does move-out cleaning cost in San Diego?
Professional move-out cleaning in San Diego typically ranges from $200-$400 for apartments and $350-$600 for houses, depending on size and condition. This is usually less than what landlords charge from deposits.
How far in advance should I schedule move-out cleaning?
Book move-out cleaning 1-2 weeks in advance, especially at month-end when demand is highest. Schedule the cleaning for the day after furniture removal and before your final walkthrough.
What's included in professional move-out cleaning?
Professional move-out cleaning includes all standard deep cleaning plus inside cabinets, appliances (oven, fridge), closets, windows, baseboards, and any areas revealed when furniture is removed.
Should I clean before or after moving furniture out?
Clean after moving furniture out. This allows access to all areas, especially spots hidden behind or under furniture. Professional cleaners need the space empty to do thorough work.
Art Machekin is the founder of Metla House Cleaning. Before starting the company, Art worked as a professional cleaner — hands-on experience that gives him a deep understanding of the techniques and details that matter most in delivering a spotless home.
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