Our Cleanup Checklist for a Successful Move
Moving is one of life’s most stressful events. Between packing, organizing, and coordinating logistics, the last thing you want to worry about is deep cleaning your old or new home. Yet, a thorough move-in or move-out cleaning is essential for ensuring a fresh start, meeting lease agreements, and making a space welcoming for its next occupants.
At Portland Cleaning, we offer comprehensive move-in and move-out cleaning services in Portland, designed to leave no corner untouched. Whether you’re a tenant hoping to get your security deposit back, a landlord preparing for new renters, or a homeowner moving into a new space, our comprehensive cleaning checklists ensure everything is spotless.
Why Move-In & Move-Out Cleaning Matters
A new home or apartment should feel fresh, safe, and ready to live in. Similarly, leaving behind a clean property is often a requirement for renters and a matter of courtesy for sellers. Professional move-in/move-out cleaning offers:
- A sanitary environment free from dust, dirt, and lingering odors
- Thorough disinfecting of bathrooms and kitchens
- Stress-free compliance with rental agreements and landlord expectations
- Extra time and peace of mind during the moving process
Step-by-Step Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
When you’re moving out, attention to detail is critical. Landlords and property managers will inspect every corner before returning your deposit. Our move-out cleaning checklist ensures nothing is overlooked:
1. Kitchen
- Clean inside and outside of all appliances (oven, microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher)
- Sanitize counters, sinks, and faucets
- Wipe down cabinet interiors and exteriors
- Scrub the stovetop and remove grease buildup
- Sweep and mop floors
2. Bathrooms
- Disinfect toilets, tubs, showers, and sinks
- Clean mirrors, counters, and fixtures
- Scrub grout and tile to remove mildew
- Sanitize high-touch areas like light switches and handles
3. Living Areas & Bedrooms
- Dust all surfaces, including ceiling fans, baseboards, and shelves
- Clean windows, sills, and blinds
- Vacuum carpets and mop hard floors
- Wipe down walls, doors, and closets
4. Final Touches
- Remove trash and debris
- Ensure the home is odor-free
- Perform a final walkthrough for quality
Step-by-Step Move-In Cleaning Checklist
Even a property that looks clean may harbor hidden dust, grime, or germs left behind by previous occupants. Our move-in cleaning checklist prepares your new space so it’s truly move-in ready:
1. Kitchen
- Deep clean and sanitize all appliances before first use
- Wipe cabinets, drawers, and shelves inside and out
- Disinfect countertops and backsplash
- Sanitize sink, faucet, and garbage disposal
2. Bathrooms
- Disinfect all fixtures, including toilets, tubs, and showers
- Clean mirrors, glass, and chrome for a polished look
- Sanitize vanities, counters, and grout lines
- Freshen drains to eliminate odors
3. Bedrooms & Living Spaces
- Dust and clean light fixtures, fans, and air vents
- Wash windows and clean window tracks
- Vacuum and mop floors to remove allergens
- Sanitize closets and shelving
4. Whole-House Touches
- Wipe down walls, trim, and doors
- Sanitize switches, outlets, and doorknobs
- Eliminate any odors with eco-friendly deodorizers
Benefits of Hiring Portland Cleaning
Trying to handle move-related cleaning on your own can be overwhelming. That’s why many tenants, landlords, and homeowners trust professional move-in/move-out cleaning services in Portland. Our cleaning team provides:
- A detailed, room-by-room checklist for maximum coverage
- Eco-friendly cleaning products are safe for families and pets
- Experienced cleaners trained to handle everything from grease to grout
- Flexible scheduling to align with your moving timeline
We take pride in delivering spotless results that make moving smoother for everyone involved.
With affordable and competitive rates, call (503) 683-3260 or contact us today for your free in-home estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need move-out cleaning to get my deposit back? Most landlords require tenants to leave the property in a clean condition. Professional move-out cleaning greatly increases your chances of receiving a full security deposit refund.
Q: Should I schedule move-in cleaning before or after movers arrive? We recommend scheduling move-in cleaning before your belongings arrive. This ensures every corner is accessible and thoroughly cleaned.
Q: Are your cleaning products safe for kids and pets? Yes. We use eco-friendly, non-toxic cleaning solutions that are effective yet safe for families, children, and pets.
Q: Do you offer same-day or emergency move-out cleaning? In many cases, yes. Portland Cleaning provides flexible scheduling, including short-notice appointments, to accommodate tight moving timelines.