Moving is stressful enough without worrying about your security deposit or leaving a mess for the next family. This free checklist walks you through exactly what to clean before you move out of a home in Austin, or before you move into a new one. Renters, landlords, and property managers all use lists like this one to make sure nothing gets missed.
Why This Checklist Matters
Most landlords in Austin will not return your full security deposit if the home is not cleaned the right way. And if you are moving into a new place, a deep clean before your things arrive means you are not scrubbing around boxes and furniture later. Print this page or save it on your phone, then check off each room as you go.
Kitchen
- Wipe down the inside and outside of all cabinets and drawers
- Clean inside the refrigerator and freezer, and wipe the outside and behind the door seals
- Scrub the inside of the oven, including racks and the glass door
- Clean the stovetop, burners, and range hood filter
- Wipe down the microwave inside and out
- Clean the sink, faucet, and garbage disposal
- Wipe all counters and backsplash
- Sweep and mop the floor, including under appliances if they move
- Empty and wipe out the trash and recycling bins
Bathrooms
- Scrub the toilet inside and out, including the base
- Clean the tub, shower walls, and shower door or curtain track
- Remove soap scum and hard water spots from tile and glass
- Wipe down the sink, faucet, and counter
- Clean the mirror and any light fixtures
- Wipe inside medicine cabinets and drawers
- Sweep and mop the floor
- Check the exhaust fan for dust buildup
Bedrooms and Living Areas
- Wipe down all baseboards and window sills
- Clean inside closets, including shelves and rods
- Spot clean walls and light switches
- Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures
- Vacuum carpets or mop hard floors
- Clean the inside of all windows you can safely reach
- Wipe down doors and door handles
Don’t Forget These Spots
- Laundry room, including the washer and dryer drums and the lint trap area
- Garage floor, sweeping out any dust or debris
- Patio, balcony, or porch surfaces
- Air vents and return air grilles
- Entryway and any coat closets
Final Walkthrough Tips
Before you hand over the keys, walk through every room one more time with fresh eyes. Look up at ceilings and fans, look down at baseboards, and open every closet and cabinet door. Take photos of each room once it is clean. If you are a renter, photos are proof of the condition you left the home in, which can help if there is ever a dispute about your deposit.
