Moving offers the perfect opportunity to give your space a deep clean. Not only is it courteous to clean the home you’re leaving behind, but it can also help you find forgotten belongings, identify needed repairs, and even improve your chances of getting your security deposit back. Your goal doesn’t need to be perfection—just clean to the standard you would want to walk into. A tidy, refreshed home makes the transition easier for the next occupant and brings peace of mind to you.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide for a Stress-Free Move

1. Pre-Packing Wipe Downs
In the weeks and months leading up to packing, start pulling items out of areas — the pantry, drawers, cabinets, storage areas, inside and on top of kitchen appliances, etc. — and give it a good wipe down or quick vacuum. This will save you major time and energy during packing & moving week.

Pro Tips: The best time to do quick wipe-downs or vacuuming of these small spaces is when you're in full declutter mode! Pull everything out, sort and purge, and wipe down inside all at once for maximum efficiency. Make sure to keep a few trash bags with you for purging expired items or trash, as well as one for donation items!

2. Don’t Forget Overlooked Spots
Details matter! Light fixtures, ceiling fans, vents, baseboards, and wall corners often collect dust, dirt, and pet hair. Wiping these areas makes a noticeable difference, and this is something you can start tackling before packing week.

Tip: Don’t forget to wipe down light switches and outlet covers! Use a vacuum wand to make sure edges and corners around the rooms and behind furniture are free of pet hair and debris.

3. Clean Empty Areas First
As you enter the packing phase, focus on cleaning spaces that are already cleared. Start with closets, drawers, and cabinets you’ve emptied. Wipe down showers and tubs, shelves, countertops, and storage areas as you go.

Pro Tip: Leave cabinet doors and cupboards open once they’re cleaned and packed. It may look a little messy, but it helps you track progress and avoid cleaning twice.

4. Focus on High-Traffic Areas
Bathrooms and kitchens are the most frequently used spaces. Even though you’ll still need them until moving day, deep cleaning them in stages saves time later. Prioritize appliances, sinks, countertops, and floors.

Tip: Dedicate one small section of counter space for last-minute food prep so the rest stays clean.

5. Save Floors for Last
The final step should always be the floors. Keep a vacuum and mop handy (or borrow one) for the very end. Do spot cleans while packing, but save deep cleaning for after everything is moved out.

Tip: For carpets, we're huge fans of keeping a powerful deep cleaning carpet shampooer vacuum on-hand to use as needed and upon move-out. For hard flooring, sweep or vacuum and then use your preferred mop and floor cleaner.

6. Keep a Cleaning Kit Ready
A move-out cleaning kit will save you stress. Pack a container with essentials like an all-purpose cleaner, paper towels, microfiber cloths, disinfecting wipes, and a broom. Having the basics on hand prevents last-minute scrambles.

Time-Saving Product Recommendations: Magic erasers, extendable dusters, stainless steel appliance wipes, surface cleaning wipes or spray, and microfiber cloths.

Why Leaving It Clean Matters

Cleaning your old home isn’t just a courtesy—it can also be therapeutic. Moving is emotional, and the act of scrubbing and wiping down spaces can help you process the transition. Leaving your home cleaner than you found it sets the stage for a positive experience for both you and the new occupant.

And if deep cleaning feels overwhelming while you’re juggling boxes and movers, consider hiring professional help. Many companies specialize in move-out cleanings, giving you one less task to worry about while ensuring the space is sparkling for its new chapter.

Final Thought: Whether you do it yourself or hire professionals, leaving your space clean is one of the best ways to close out one chapter and welcome the next with less stress. And if you do plan to hire move-out cleaners, wiping things down, dusting, and vacuuming in the weeks beforehand might just save you some time and money on the move-out clean.