How to clean an apartment when you move out

Teach: How to clean an apartment when you move out

What to say

Clean an apartment for move-out from the top of each room down, once it is completely empty: dust vents and fixtures, wipe walls and switch plates, clean inside every cupboard, the oven and the fridge, scrub the bathroom, then vacuum and mop last. Patch small nail holes if your lease allows it, replace dead bulbs, and take dated photos of every clean room before you hand back the keys.

What to show, in order

1. Read the lease and the move-in record so you know what condition is expected.
2. Empty the unit completely before you start, including the fridge and every cupboard.
3. Work top down in each room: vents, light fixtures, then walls, doors, frames and switch plates.
4. Clean inside the oven, fridge, freezer, microwave, dishwasher and every drawer and cupboard.
5. Scrub the tub, shower, toilet, sink and mirror, and clear hair from the drains.
6. Patch small nail holes if the lease allows it and replace any dead bulbs.
7. Vacuum and mop last, finishing at the front door.
8. Photograph every room, cupboard and appliance with the date, then return the keys and ask for a receipt.

When to stop and call a professional

• You find mold larger than a small patch, pests, or damage you cannot fix: tell the landlord in writing instead of covering it up.
• You feel dizzy, short of breath or your eyes burn while cleaning: get to fresh air at once and call poison control, 1-800-222-1222.

The check question

Ask: Which order cleans a room most efficiently? Answer: Top down, floors last

From EveryManKnows. General information, not professional advice.