Moving Out? How to Get Your Security Deposit Back • Everyday Cheapskate

Moving out of a rental property can feel like running a marathon: it’s exhausting, and you might wonder if it will ever end. But there’s light at the end of the tunnel, especially if you’ve got a nice chunk of change coming back to you in the form of your security deposit. Here’s a deep cleaning checklist to help you learn how to get your security deposit back when moving out.

To make sure you don’t leave any money behind, it’s crucial to leave your rental spick and span—regardless of the condition when you moved in! No one (but you) will remember what that was. The only thing that matters now is that you leave the place cleaner so that the owner or his agent are impressed with just how clean this place can be! Here’s a deep cleaning checklist to help you maximize your security deposit when moving out.

1. Start with Walls and Ceilings

Walls and ceilings are often overlooked, but they can accumulate dust, cobwebs, and even some unsightly marks. Here’s what to do:

Dust and Remove Cobwebs: Use a long-handled duster to reach high corners and edges where dust and cobwebs collect.
Clean Marks and Stains: For small marks, a magic eraser can work wonders. For larger stains, consider spot-cleaning with a mild detergent. If you’ve painted the walls, check your lease to see if you’re responsible for repainting them.

MORE: 13 Reasons to Keep Borax in the House (and Why It’s Safe!)

2. Make Windows and Blinds Sparkle

Clean windows make a huge difference in how a place looks and feels. Ensure your windows and blinds are sparkling clean:

Wash Windows Inside and Out: Use a glass cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar. Don’t forget to wipe down the sills and tracks.
Clean Blinds or Curtains: Dust and wipe down blinds. If you have curtains, laundering them could be a good idea if they’re washable.

MORE: Once You Use Alvin Corn DIY Glass Cleaner You Will Never Look Back

3. Thoroughly Clean All Flooring

Whether you have carpets, hardwood floors, or tiles, they need a thorough clean:

Carpet Cleaning: Vacuum thoroughly, and consider renting a carpet cleaner for a deep clean. Some leases require professional carpet cleaning, so keep your receipt if you hire someone.
Hardwood and Tile Floors: Sweep and mop thoroughly. Use appropriate cleaners for hardwood to avoid damage.

MORE: The Complete Guide to Cleaning and Restoring Old, Stained Carpet

4. Deep Clean the Kitchen

The kitchen is often one of the dirtiest areas in a home. Focus on these key areas:

Appliances: Clean inside and out. This includes the oven (use an oven cleaner if necessary), microwave, refrigerator (don’t forget to defrost and wipe down shelves), and dishwasher.
Cabinets and Drawers: Empty them out and wipe them down. Don’t forget to clean the tops of cabinets if they don’t reach the ceiling.
Counters and Backsplash: Use a suitable cleaner for your countertops. Make sure there are no crumbs, stains, or greasy spots left behind.
Sink and Faucet: Clean and polish. A mixture of baking soda and vinegar can help with tough stains.

MORE: How to Clean Gunk and Grime from Kitchen Cabinets

5. Ensure Bathrooms Are Spotless

Bathrooms require a meticulous cleaning to make them spotless:

Toilet: Scrub inside and out, including around the base.
Shower and Tub: Use a bathroom cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to tackle soap scum and grime. Don’t forget to clean the showerhead and faucet.
Sink and Vanity: Clean the sink, faucet, and countertop. Empty and wipe down drawers and cabinets.
Mirror: Use a glass cleaner for a streak-free shine.
Tiles and Grout: If your bathroom has tile, clean the grout lines with a brush and suitable cleaner.

MORE: The Ultimate Step By Step Guide to a Clean Bathroom in 15 Minutes

6. Tidy Up Bedrooms and Living Areas

These areas might seem less daunting, but they still require attention:

Closets: Empty and wipe down shelves and rods. Vacuum or sweep the floors.
Baseboards and Molding: Dust and wipe down to remove any dirt or grime buildup.
Light Fixtures and Ceiling Fans: Dust and clean all fixtures. Make sure all light bulbs are working.

MORE: How to Clean with Vinegar: The Hero of Budget-Friendly Cleaning

7. Don’t Forget Doors and Handles

Don’t forget to clean doors and handles throughout the property:

Wipe Down Doors: Remove any fingerprints, smudges, or marks using a microfiber cloth.
Clean Handles and Knobs: Disinfect and polish to remove dirt and germs.

MORE: 15 Ways to Use Citric Acid to Clean, Descale, and Restore Just About Anything

8. Tidy Up Outdoor Areas

If your rental includes outdoor spaces like a porch, balcony, or yard, make sure these are tidy as well:

Sweep and Remove Debris: Clear any leaves, trash, or other debris.
Clean Outdoor Furniture: If applicable, wipe down any outdoor furniture you’re leaving behind

MORE: Quick and Easy Outdoor Cleaning and Storage Tips You Can Use

9. Miscellaneous Cleaning Tasks to Ensure You Get Your Security Deposit Back

Check for Minor Repairs: Fill any small holes or scratches on walls. Replace burnt-out light bulbs and ensure all smoke detectors have working batteries.
Use a Checklist: Write down everything that needs to be cleaned and check items off as you go. This helps ensure you don’t miss anything.
Take Photos: Document the state of the property after cleaning. This can serve as evidence in case of disputes with your landlord.

Key to Getting Your Security Deposit Back

Final Walkthrough

Once you’ve completed your deep cleaning checklist, do a final walkthrough of the property. Look at everything with fresh eyes and imagine you’re the owner inspecting your personal property. Is everything clean? Are there any areas you missed? This final check can make a big difference in getting your full security deposit back.

Communication

Communicating with your landlord or agency throughout the moving-out process can be beneficial. Let them know your moving date, ask about any specific cleaning or repair requirements, and schedule a time for the final inspection. Being proactive can help you address any issues before they become problems.

The Ultimate Clean & Move Kit

Before you dive into our ultimate move-out cleaning checklist, make sure you’ve got the right tools and supplies on hand. While you can find most of these items at your local supermarket or hardware store, we’ve included Amazon links for your convenience. Considering that security deposits can equal one to two months’ rent, investing less than $100 in these essentials is a smart move to ensure you get your full deposit back.

Swiffer Duster Kit with 3 ft Extendable Handle...

Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Original Cleaning Pads...

Save $1.46

Sprayway Ammonia-Free Glass Cleaner, Foaming...

SetSail Blind Duster, Window Cleaner Duster Brush...

Easy Off Heavy Duty Oven Cleaner, Destroys Tough...

Lysol Pro Kitchen Spray Cleaner and Degreaser...

Lysol Power Foaming Bathroom Cleaner, Multipurpose...

Save $1.87

Rubbermaid Commercial Products 8.5" Tile and Grout...

Goo Gone Grout & Tile Cleaner - 28 Ounce - Removes...

Save $1.00

HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cleaning Cloth 210GSM, Pack of...

Drywall Repair Kit,2 Pack Wall Mending Agent,Wall...

Let’s Review

Moving out is a lot of work, but leaving your rental property in pristine condition is worth the effort. By following this deep cleaning checklist, you can maximize your chances of getting your entire security deposit back without delays or hassles!

A clean home not only assures a smooth hand over and return of deposits but also leaves a positive impression on the owner, which can be helpful for future references. Happy moving!

Grab Your Free Ultimate Moving Out Cleaning Checklist!

Make your move-out process even easier with our free Ultimate Moving Out Cleaning Checklist. This handy one-sheet guide ensures you don’t miss a single step, helping you get your full security deposit back. Download it now and keep it handy as you prepare to leave your rental spotless.

Question: What’s your go-to cleaning hack for making sure you get your full security deposit back when moving out? Share your best tips and tricks.

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Last update on 2026-07-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Margaret says:

June 20, 2024 at 8:04 pm

After being a landlord/manager for over 10 years, this list is excellent. If ONLY tenants WOULD do this! Many times, tenants have NOT allotted enough time to move AND clean. Mary, the only thing I might add to your list, is to start deep cleaning (walls/blinds/stove/toilet ring, etc) a month or two ahead of the move. Then allow 1 full day for the final cleaning. Then, the biggest part of cleaning is done, and after everything is out of the space, it will be easier to address the final vacuuming/touch-up areas. This is why your (MH) tips for REGULAR/weekly maintenance are SO invaluable! 🙂

Mary Hunt says:
June 21, 2024 at 10:03 am

Thanks for your input and kind words, Margaret! Excellent tips for sure.

Cally Ross says:

June 19, 2024 at 8:19 am

How timely! my sister and I are moving our parents into a nursing home and cleaning out a 64-years-marriage worth of “stuff”. (They’ve only lived in this apartment for 3 1/2 years, so many things are still packed) however, their landlady is a nazi about the condition of her properties, we want to leave it ‘above reproach’! The checklist has things I wouldn’t have thought of, thank you!

Moving Out? How to NOT Leave Money Behind!