How to Clean a Rented Property Before You Move Out

Start with the Areas You Use Most

Tackling the rooms you’ve spent the most time in — like the kitchen, bathroom and lounge — gives you a head start. These areas usually take longer to clean due to grime, grease and buildup over time.

Focus on:

• Degreasing cooker hobs and splashbacks

• Scrubbing bathroom tiles, taps and shower screens

• Vacuuming under sofas, beds and other furniture

Remember to check behind appliances and inside cupboards too. If you’re unsure what landlords might expect, End of Tenancy Cleaning London offers helpful checklists to guide your cleaning from start to finish.

Use Natural Products That Actually Work 🌿

Harsh cleaning chemicals can leave behind strong odours — not ideal when handing over keys. Luckily, you can achieve the same sparkling results with safer alternatives.

Try this:

• Mix white vinegar and water to clean windows and mirrors

• Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda on carpets before hoovering to freshen them

• Use lemon juice to tackle limescale in bathrooms and sinks

These solutions are not only cheaper but also better for your health and the environment. 👍

Tackle Hidden Spots That Get Overlooked

It’s easy to forget the little things — but those are often what landlords check. Pay attention to:

• Skirting boards and behind radiators

• Inside wardrobes and drawers

• Tops of doors and light switches

Adding these to your list helps you avoid deductions from your deposit. Need extra support? Our deep cleaning service is ideal for reaching those forgotten corners and giving your space a professional-level clean.

Don’t Forget the Windows and Floors ✨

Clean windows can completely change the feel of a room, while spotless floors show you’ve taken care of the home.

Tips for a perfect finish:

• Use a squeegee and warm soapy water on window panes

• Mop hard floors and wipe down edges where dust collects

• Vacuum slowly to lift more embedded dirt and pet hair

Professional window cleaning may be worth it for upper floors or exterior glass. If your floors are carpeted, our carpet cleaning team can refresh them to move-in condition.

Plan Your Cleaning Around Packing 📦

It’s easier to clean when rooms are empty — but not everything has to wait until the last day. Clean as you go while packing to spread out the effort.

Try this approach:

• Clear one room at a time, then clean it fully before moving on

• Label boxes and stack them away from areas being cleaned

• Leave final tasks like hoovering or wiping countertops for the end

For rented properties with multiple rooms or heavy wear, booking professional help like End of Tenancy Cleaning London ensures nothing gets missed and saves time during a busy move.

Double-Check with Your Inventory List 📋

Before handing over the keys, compare your finished clean with the original inventory. If items like furniture or kitchen appliances were provided, make sure they’re cleaned and in place.

Key things to inspect:

• Upholstered chairs, mattresses and under-cabinet areas

• Wall marks, scuffs and nail holes

• Appliance interiors like ovens, fridges and dishwashers

Our end of tenancy cleaning package is designed to meet agent-approved checklists, making the process hassle-free and deposit-safe.

Freshen the Air with Simple Tricks 🌸

After cleaning, take a moment to freshen up the home’s scent. First impressions matter, especially when an agent or landlord comes to inspect.

Try:

• Boiling citrus peels or cinnamon in water for a soft scent

• Placing open bowls of baking soda in each room overnight

• Opening windows on a dry day to let the air circulate

Avoid artificial sprays — natural scents create a more pleasant, clean-smelling space.

Final Thoughts

Leaving a rental doesn’t have to be stressful — with a plan in place and the right steps, you can leave your home spotless and protect your deposit. From homemade cleaners to room-by-room checklists, everything helps. 🏡 If time is tight or the job feels too big, professional support from trusted teams like End of Tenancy Cleaning London or our own Basingstoke cleaning experts can ensure every detail is handled with care.