Move-Out Cleaning Checklist: How to Reduce Fees and Keep Your Deposit

Moving out of a rental can be exciting—but it can also be stressful, especially when you’re worried about unexpected cleaning fees or losing your security deposit. The good news? With the right preparation and a clear checklist, you can significantly reduce the risk of extra charges and leave your rental in great condition.

Below is a professional-level move-out cleaning checklist to help you move with confidence and keep as much of your deposit as possible.

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Why Move-Out Cleaning Matters

Most leases require tenants to return the property in “original condition,” allowing for ordinary wear and tear. That means:

• No excessive dirt or grime

• No unapproved damage

• No neglected cleaning tasks

• No missing or broken fixtures
  

Property managers and owners often deduct cleaning fees when the unit is not cleaned to a professional standard. Following a detailed checklist helps ensure there are no surprises during the final inspection. Move-Out Cleaning Checklist

1. Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most commonly charged areas for cleaning fees—so take your time here.

Surfaces & Appliances

• Clean countertops and backsplash thoroughly

• Degrease stove, stovetop, burners, and range hood

• Clean inside and outside of the microwave

• Scrub oven and remove burnt food residue

• Clean the refrigerator: shelves, drawers, walls, doors

• Defrost freezer (if required)

• Wipe down cabinet doors and handles

• Clean inside cabinets and drawers

• Sanitize the sink and remove limescale from faucets
  

Floors

• Sweep and mop

• Clean baseboards

• Remove any stains or sticky residue
  

2. Bathroom

Bathrooms are evaluated closely because they show dirt easily.

Surfaces

• Remove soap scum and mold from the shower/bath

• Clean and disinfect toilet (inside and outside)

• Polish mirrors and glass

• Clean sink and vanity

• Wipe cabinets inside and out

• Remove hard-water stains and limescale from faucets and showerhead
  

Floors

• Sweep and mop

• Clean grout lines if visibly dirty

• Remove hair from drains

3. Living Room & Bedrooms

These areas are easier but still important.

General Cleaning

• Dust all surfaces

• Wipe light switches, doorknobs, and handles

• Clean windows and window sills

• Dust blinds or curtains

• Remove cobwebs from corners and ceiling

• Patch small nail holes if allowed by your lease

Floors

• Vacuum carpets (consider professional cleaning if heavily soiled)

• Sweep and mop hard floors

• Clean baseboards
  

4. Walls, Doors, and Fixtures

Small areas are often overlooked—and often charged for.

• Remove scuff marks gently

• Clean doors and door frames

• Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures

• Replace burnt-out light bulbs

• Clean air conditioner filters (important in Japan!)

• Wipe heating units and vents
  

5. Balcony or Outdoor Space

Especially important in Japan where balconies are included in the inspection.

• Sweep the floor

• Remove any accumulated dirt, leaves, or trash

• Clean the drain (to prevent water blockage)

• Remove laundry hooks or personal items
  

6. Final Checks Before You Leave

• Take out all trash

• Remove all personal belongings

• Check that no furniture marks or stains remain

• Return all keys (door, mailbox, bike parking, building entrance)

• Photograph everything as proof of condition
  

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💡 Pro Tips to Reduce Cleaning Fees

1. Start early

Don’t try to clean everything on moving day. Begin one week in advance.

2. Use the move-in photos (if you have them)

Match the condition you recorded at the beginning.

3. Focus on “high-fee” areas

Ovens, range hoods, bathrooms, and balconies often trigger the highest deductions.

4. Ask for the inspection checklist

Many landlords or management companies will share their cleaning standards.

5. Consider a professional cleaning service

A small investment might save a large deposit deduction—especially for kitchens/bathrooms.