The Ultimate Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning Checklist To Streamline Relocation

Moving in or out? This checklist makes cleaning easier and faster. It helps cover every room, highlights often-missed spots, and keeps you stay organized. Whether you’re leaving a rental or settling into a new place, you follow these steps for a stress-free, spotless transition.

So, if you’re looking for an easy cleaning checklist to follow to help you move in and move out, then you’re in the right place.

#1 Why Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning Really Matters

Moving house can be stressful enough. Between playing cardboard box Tetris and wondering where you packed your toothbrush, the last thing you’d want to worry about is cleaning.

But if you’re moving in or out, a thorough scrub is one task you can’t skip. Why?

A deep clean can help you get your security deposit back, avoid awkward landlord follow-ups, and give you a truly fresh start in your new place.

And with rental turnover rising in big cities, a clean, well-maintained apartment is higher when it comes to demand.

So, whether you’re saying goodbye to your cozy Paulus Hook apartment or settling into a Journal Squared high-rise, this checklist can help guarantee that there will be no dust bunny left behind.

#2 Grab Your Supplies

Before you dive in for some thorough cleaning, it’s best to have these essentials on hand:

• All-purpose cleaner
• Glass cleaner
• Disinfectant spray
• Baking soda and vinegar
• Microfiber cloths and sponges
• Broom, mop, vacuum
• Trash bags
• Rubber gloves

But do you still feel that you’re short on time or energy? As recommended by this top-rated cleaning company, hiring a team of trained professionals can be the perfect solution.

And it’s always best to look for a service with strong reviews and experience in both residential and commercial cleaning. 

Avengers Cleaning Services recommends choosing a company that offers customized options—from routine touch-ups to full deep clean.

#3 Ways to Turn the Grime Into Gleam

Keeping your home spotless can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down room by room makes it manageable. 

The Kitchen is Where the Grime Lives

The kitchen is one of the most used—and often most neglected—areas in any home. Focus your efforts on these key spots:

Refrigerator and Freezer

• Remove all food (yes, even that “someday” hot sauce collection).
• Wipe down shelves, bins, and walls with a vinegar-water mix.
• Defrost the freezer if needed.

Oven and Stove

• Clean inside the oven, and this can include racks and trays.
• Scrub burner grates with a baking soda paste after removing.
• Wipe down the stovetop, knobs, and control panel.

Cabinets and Drawers

• First, empty everything out.
• Southern Living suggests wiping inside and out with warm water and dish soap.
• Don’t forget the handles—they’re grease magnets.

Sink and Countertops

• Scrub the sink (baking soda works great on stainless steel).
• Wipe down and disinfect all countertop surfaces.

Dishwasher

• Run an empty cycle with vinegar to clean and deodorize.
  Check the filter for any leftover food debris.

Make Your Bathroom Sparkle

No one wants to walk into a bathroom that screams “previous tenant.” Remember, a deep clean can make any space feel fresh and new.

Toilet

• Scrub the bowl with disinfectant—or try The Spruce’s tip and use Coke to dissolve rust rings.
• Continue by wiping down the seat, lid, and base.

Shower/Bathtub

• Remove soap scum and mildew with tile cleaner or a vinegar spray.
• Clean the showerhead and faucet thoroughly.

Sink and Mirror

• Wipe the sink basin and polish the fixtures.
• You can also use a glass cleaner for a streak-free mirror.

Cabinets and Drawers

• Empty them out and clean inside and out.
• Toss leftover toiletries or any trash that you can find.

The Details Matter in Bedrooms and Living Spaces

These areas might look clean, but dust and grime often hide in unexpected spots. Don’t overlook these details:

Baseboards and Molding

• Wipe down with a damp cloth to clear away dust and buildup.

Closets

• Remove leftover hangers or forgotten items.
• Wipe shelves and vacuum the closet floor.

Walls and Doors

• Spot-clean any fingerprints or smudges.
• Clean door handles and light switches—the major germ hotspots!
  

Windows and Blinds

• Use streak-free spray to clean window glass.
• Dust blinds or remove and wash if they’re plastic or metal.

Floors

• Vacuum all carpets and rugs.
• Mop hardwood, tile, or laminate floors.
• Don’t forget corners and under furniture—they collect the most dust.

#4 Bonus Checklist to Make Your New Place Move-In Ready

You’ve landed your dream pad—now it’s time to make it feel like home.

Move-in cleaning is the perfect chance to refresh the space before the boxes are unpacked. Don’t skip these final steps:

• Disinfect all door knobs, faucets, and other high-touch surfaces.
• Sanitize kitchen appliances (you never know how clean they were left).
• Run the dishwasher and washing machine empty with vinegar to freshen them up.
• Check under sinks and behind the fridge for signs of pests or mold.

If you’re moving into a sleek building in The Heights or Bergen-Lafayette, the place might already look spotless—but it never hurts to double-check.

#5 When to Call in the Pros

Sometimes, no amount of elbow grease—or free time—will cut it. That’s when professional cleaners can save the day.

Many cleaning services offer detailed move-in and move-out packages tailored to apartments, condos, and brownstones. You can even request extras like eco-friendly products, bi-weekly maid service, carpet shampooing, vacuuming, or even window washing.

While it may cost a few hundred dollars, it could save you hours of work—or help you recover your security deposit. And some services are more affordable than you’d think.

Before booking, do your research. You can check reviews, ask about pricing, and make sure that your target company is reputable.

#6 FAQs

#7 The Bottom Line – Clean Space, Fresh Start

Moving doesn’t have to be chaotic—especially when you’ve got a solid cleaning checklist in hand. Whether you’re leaving behind your old place or stepping into a new one, a thorough clean helps you feel more organized, stress-free, and ready for the next chapter.

From scrubbing kitchens to wiping down windows, every detail adds up. And if you’re short on time or energy, professional cleaners can be a smart investment.

Take a breath, check off each task, and enjoy the feeling of a truly fresh start. You’ve earned it!