Preparing a house for a move can feel overwhelming, but a detailed move in move out cleaning checklist keeps the process organized and ensures your home is spotless before you hand over the keys. Whether you’re preparing your former home for its new owners or getting your new house ready for move-in day, this guide covers every essential task — including steam carpet cleaning and ceramic tile cleaning.
If you prefer a faster, professional option, consider our move in move out cleaning services provided by a trusted cleaning service company.
General Cleaning Tasks for the Whole House
Before focusing on specific rooms, these core steps create a clean foundation throughout the home.
Remove Dust and Cobwebs
Dust ceiling fans, corners, vents, trim, blinds, and baseboards to freshen up the entire house.
Clean Walls, Trim, and Interior Doors
Remove smudges, marks, and fingerprints to restore a clean and maintained look.
Vacuum, Sweep, and Mop Floors
This prevents dirt from traveling into freshly cleaned areas and prepares the home for the final touches.
Steam Carpet Cleaning
Professional steam carpet cleaning removes deep dirt, allergens, odors, and buildup hidden in carpet fibers. This step makes one of the biggest visual improvements in any home.
Deep Cleaning the Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most detailed and time-consuming areas on a move out cleaning checklist.
Degrease and Clean All Appliances
Clean the inside and outside of the refrigerator, oven, microwave, range hood, and dishwasher to eliminate stains and odors.
Wipe Cabinets, Drawers, and Pantry Shelving
Remove crumbs, spills, and dust so the new homeowner has a fresh and organized space.
Sanitize Sinks and Countertops
Disinfecting these high-use surfaces leaves the kitchen looking polished and hygienic.
Ceramic Tile Cleaning for Kitchen Floors
Kitchen tile collects food splatters, grease, and grime. Ceramic tile cleaning restores shine and makes the entire kitchen look cleaner.
Bathrooms: Deep Cleaning and Sanitizing
Bathrooms require a top-to-bottom sanitization to ensure a safe and fresh environment.
Scrub Showers, Tubs, and Toilets
Remove soap scum, hard water buildup, and residue for a spotless finish.
Clean Mirrors and Polish Fixtures
Streak-free glass and shiny fixtures brighten the bathroom.
Wipe Cabinets and High-Touch Areas
Disinfect handles, drawer fronts, shelving, switches, and towel bars.
Ceramic Tile Cleaning for Bathroom Floors & Walls
Bathroom tile often becomes dull from soap residue and moisture. Deep cleaning revitalizes the walls and flooring and enhances overall freshness.
Bedrooms and Living Areas
These commonly used spaces need detailed cleaning to complete the whole-house move-out or move-in process.
Clean Closets and Built-ins
Wipe shelves and storage areas, and vacuum or mop the floors.
Wash Windows, Sills, and Tracks
Clean windows improve natural light and instantly make rooms look brighter.
Steam Carpet Cleaning in Bedrooms and Living Areas
Performing steam carpet cleaning in these spaces removes dirt, allergens, and odors that accumulate over time.
Final Steps Before Handing Over the Keys
These finishing touches ensure the home is fully prepped for its next owners.
Patch Small Wall Holes
Fill nail holes and touch up paint where needed.
Replace Burned-Out Light Bulbs
Bright, consistent lighting helps the home look clean and welcoming.
Perform a Complete Home Walkthrough
Walk room-by-room with your move in move out cleaning checklist to confirm you didn’t miss anything.
FAQs About Move-In & Move-Out Cleaning for Houses
What is included in a move out cleaning for a house?
A thorough cleaning includes dusting, floor cleaning, kitchen appliances, bathroom sanitizing, cabinet wiping, steam carpet cleaning, ceramic tile cleaning, and clearing all remaining items.
Should I steam clean carpets before moving in or out?
Yes. Steam carpet cleaning restores freshness, removes odors, and helps the home feel renewed and ready.
Is ceramic tile cleaning necessary when moving?
Absolutely. Ceramic tile and grout collect grime over time. Cleaning them restores brightness and improves overall home cleanliness.
Can a cleaning company handle everything on the checklist?
Yes. A professional cleaning service company can handle the entire process, including steam carpet and ceramic tile cleaning.
Conclusion
A complete move out cleaning checklist ensures your home is ready for its next chapter. Whether preparing a house for new owners or getting your new home ready for move-in day, following a structured move in move out cleaning checklist helps you clean efficiently and thoroughly. Including steam carpet cleaning and ceramic tile cleaning provides a deeper, more refreshing finish. For a stress-free, professional experience, explore move-in/move-out services from Orion Cleaning Solutions.