Many landlords in LA have strict cleanliness expectations, and even if you think your place looks fine, they might see things differently. That’s why we put together this move-out cleaning checklist, complete with expert recommendations from LA property managers. Follow this guide, and you’ll leave your rental spotless and stress-free.
Understanding Move-Out Cleaning Requirements
Before you break out the cleaning supplies, it’s crucial to understand what your landlord expects. Many rental agreements include a clause about move-out cleaning, specifying what is required before you hand over the keys. Some landlords expect a basic clean, while others require a deep professional cleaning, especially if carpets or appliances were included in the rental.
What LA Landlords Look For
- Clean appliances inside and out (especially ovens, fridges, and dishwashers)
- Floors mopped, vacuumed, or steam cleaned
- Windows and blinds dust-free
- Bathrooms sanitized and mold-free
- No lingering odors (pets, smoke, food, etc.)
Essential Cleaning Supplies You’ll Need
Before you start scrubbing, gather the right cleaning tools. Here’s what you should have on hand:
- All-purpose cleaner (for most surfaces)
- Glass cleaner (for windows, mirrors, and glass doors)
- Disinfecting wipes or spray (for kitchens and bathrooms)
- Magic erasers (to remove scuffs from walls)
- Microfiber cloths (for streak-free surfaces)
- Vacuum cleaner (with attachments for hard-to-reach areas)
- Mop and bucket
- Scrub brushes and sponges (for stubborn stains and grout)
Now that you’re armed with the right supplies, it’s time to tackle the cleaning process step by step.
The Ultimate Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
1. General Cleaning Tasks
- Dust all surfaces, including shelves, baseboards, and ceiling fans.
- Wipe down walls, door handles, and light switches.
- Vacuum and mop all floors, including behind and under furniture.
- Clean windows, mirrors, and sliding glass doors.
- Remove cobwebs from corners and ceilings.
2. Kitchen Deep Clean
- Refrigerator: Empty, wipe down all shelves and drawers.
- Oven & Stove: Scrub burners, remove grease, and clean inside the oven.
- Microwave & Dishwasher: Wipe the inside and outside thoroughly.
- Cabinets & Drawers: Remove crumbs, wipe down interiors, and sanitize handles.
- Sink & Countertops: Disinfect and remove any stains or food residue.
- Kitchen cabinets: make sure that food is removed and wipe down all shelves.
3. Bathroom Deep Clean
- Scrub and disinfect the toilet, including under the seat.
- Clean the shower/tub, removing soap scum and mold from grout.
- Wipe down mirrors, sinks, and countertops.
- Mop the floors and sanitize all surfaces.
4. Living Room & Bedroom
- Dust furniture and clean underneath if possible.
- Vacuum carpets and rugs, or steam clean if required.
- Wipe down walls and remove scuff marks.
- Empty and clean out all closets and drawers.
5. Final Touches
- Patch up nail holes in walls with spackling paste.
- Remove any lingering odors with baking soda or air fresheners.
- Empty and clean trash bins.
- Take photos of the cleaned space for documentation before handing in the keys.
Landlord-Approved Pro Tips
Wondering why some tenants still get charged cleaning fees even after cleaning? Here’s what LA landlords say they look for:
- Corners and hard-to-reach areas: Dust and dirt tend to accumulate where you don’t usually clean.
- Window tracks and baseboards: These details often get overlooked but can make a big difference.
- Pet hair and odors: If you had pets, make sure there’s no lingering fur or smells.
- Shower grout and tiles: A sparkling clean bathroom is a big deal for landlords.
A final pro tip? Ask your landlord for a pre-move-out walk-through. If they see any issues, you’ll have time to fix them before they deduct from your deposit.
When to Hire a Professional Cleaner
If you’re short on time or just don’t want to deal with the hassle, hiring professional cleaners might be worth it.
Pros of Hiring a Cleaning Service
- Guaranteed deep clean that meets landlord expectations
- Saves you time and effort during the stressful moving process
- Some landlords require a professional cleaning receipt to ensure thoroughness
If hiring professionals, schedule the cleaning after you’ve moved everything out but before your final walkthrough with the landlord.
Conclusion: Ensuring a Hassle-Free Move-Out
A little extra effort in cleaning can mean the difference between getting your full deposit back or losing hundreds to unexpected charges. Stick to this move-out cleaning checklist, pay attention to small details, and document your cleaned space with photos before moving out.
By following these steps, you’ll not only leave your rental in excellent condition but also ensure a smooth, stress-free move to your next home. Happy moving!
