Are you moving out of your rental property and want to make sure that you get your security deposit back? End of tenancy cleaning is an essential part of the moving out process that can help you get your deposit back. In this article, we’ll explore five essential DIY end of tenancy cleaning tips that focus on the most commonly overlooked areas that can make a difference in your final inspection.
Start with a Checklist
Before you start cleaning, create a checklist of everything that needs to be cleaned in your rental property. This checklist will help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t miss any important areas. Additionally, you’ll be able to prioritize your cleaning tasks based on their level of importance.
Your checklist should include the following areas:
- Kitchen: cupboards, drawers, sink, oven, hob, extractor fan, fridge, freezer, and dishwasher
- Bathroom: toilet, sink, bathtub or shower, tiles, and mirrors
- Living room and bedrooms: floors, carpets, walls, and windows
- Hallways and stairs: floors, carpets, walls, and skirting boards
Focus on the Most Overlooked Areas
Some areas are commonly overlooked during end of tenancy cleaning. Make sure to focus on these areas during your cleaning to ensure that they’re thoroughly cleaned.
- Inside kitchen cupboards and drawers: Remove everything from the cupboards and drawers and clean them thoroughly. Make sure to wipe down the shelves and the inside of the cupboard doors. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any crumbs or debris.
- Behind and under appliances: Move the appliances out from their usual spot and clean behind and underneath them. Use a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth to remove any dust, dirt, or debris.
- Window sills and frames: Clean the window sills and frames using a damp cloth and a mild cleaner. Make sure to remove any dirt or debris from the corners.
- Skirting boards: Wipe down the skirting boards using a damp cloth and a mild cleaner. Make sure to remove any dust or dirt that has accumulated on them.
- Light fixtures and fittings: Remove any light fixtures and fittings and clean them thoroughly. Make sure to remove any dust or dirt that has accumulated on them.
Clean the Carpets
When it comes to cleaning carpets in your rental property, it’s important to give them a thorough clean before you move out. Over time, carpets can accumulate dirt, dust, and other particles that can be difficult to remove without the right equipment.
One of the most effective ways to clean your carpets is by using a carpet cleaner. These machines are widely available for rent at hardware and home improvement stores, and they work by spraying a cleaning solution onto your carpets and then vacuuming up the dirt and debris. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when using a carpet cleaner, as incorrect use can result in damage to your carpets.
If you’re using a vacuum cleaner to clean your carpets, make sure to use one with strong suction power. This will help to remove as much dirt and debris as possible from your carpets. Additionally, make sure to vacuum your carpets thoroughly, going over each section several times to ensure that you’ve removed all of the dirt and debris.
If your carpets have any stains or spots, make sure to treat them with an appropriate stain remover. There are many different types of stain removers available, so make sure to choose one that’s suitable for the type of stain you’re dealing with. Follow the instructions on the label carefully, and make sure to test the stain remover on a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet before using it on a larger stain.
Overall, cleaning your carpets before you move out of your rental property is an essential part of the end of tenancy cleaning process. By giving your carpets a thorough clean, you can ensure that they look and smell their best for the next tenant, and increase your chances of getting your security deposit back.
Don’t Forget the Bathroom
The bathroom is another area that’s commonly overlooked during end of tenancy cleaning. Make sure to clean the following:
- Toilet: Clean the toilet bowl, seat, and lid using a toilet cleaner. Make sure to remove any stains or limescale.
- Sink: Clean the sink using a mild cleaner and a damp cloth. Make sure to remove any toothpaste or soap stains.
- Bathtub or shower: Clean the bathtub or shower using a mild cleaner and a scrub brush. Make sure to remove any mold or mildew.
- Tiles: Clean the tiles using a tile cleaner and a scrub brush. Make sure to remove any mold or mildew.
- Mirrors: Clean the mirrors using a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Make sure to remove any streaks or smudges.
Additionally, make sure to remove any mold or mildew from the bathroom using an appropriate cleaner.
Hire a Professional Cleaner
If you’re short on time or don’t feel confident in your cleaning abilities, consider hiring a professional end of tenancy cleaner. A professional cleaner can ensure that your rental property is cleaned to a high standard, increasing your chances of getting your security deposit back. They can also help you save time and effort, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move.
When hiring a professional cleaner, make sure to choose a reputable and experienced company. Check their reviews and references, and make sure to ask for a detailed quote that outlines the services they’ll provide. Additionally, make sure that they offer a guarantee that their cleaning services will meet the standards required by your landlord or letting agent.
Conclusion
End of tenancy cleaning is essential if you want to get your security deposit back. By following these five essential DIY end of tenancy cleaning tips, you can increase your chances of getting your deposit back. Remember to start with a checklist, focus on the most commonly overlooked areas, clean the carpets, don’t forget the bathroom, and consider hiring a professional cleaner. If you need help with end of tenancy cleaning, don’t hesitate to contact one of the best professionals at Skycleaners for professional and reliable cleaning services. Our team of experienced and skilled cleaners can ensure that your rental property is cleaned to the highest standard, giving you peace of mind during your move.