Why a move-out clean pays for itself
Most leases require you to return the unit "in the same condition as move-in, less normal wear and tear." Landlords can deduct reasonable cleaning costs from your deposit if the unit is left dirty — and their rates are often higher than what you'd pay a cleaner yourself. A $200–$400 professional clean can protect a deposit of $500 to a full month's rent.
Types of cleaning (and what each includes)
Standard clean
- Dusting and wiping surfaces
- Kitchen counters, sink, stovetop exterior
- Bathrooms, floors, vacuuming
Deep clean
- Everything in standard
- Baseboards, door frames, switch plates
- Inside microwave, grout scrubbing, blinds
Move-out / move-in
- Everything in deep clean
- Inside oven, fridge, cabinets and drawers
- Closets, windowsills, tracks, vents
What maid services cost
| Home size | Standard clean | Move-out clean |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $100–$170 | $180–$300 |
| 2 bedrooms | $140–$220 | $250–$400 |
| 3 bedrooms | $180–$280 | $320–$500 |
Typical ranges for planning only; prices vary by city, condition and add-ons such as carpet shampooing or wall washing.
Move-out cleaning checklist
Kitchen
- Inside and outside of oven, stovetop, drip pans and range hood filter
- Inside fridge and freezer (unplug only if the lease allows; leave doors ajar)
- Cabinets and drawers inside and out, sink and faucet, dishwasher seal
Bathrooms
- Toilet including base and behind, tub/shower and grout, glass doors
- Mirror, vanity, inside drawers, exhaust fan cover
Living areas and bedrooms
- Baseboards, doors, light switches, outlet covers, ceiling fans
- Blinds, windowsills and tracks, closet shelves and floors
- Vacuum and mop; spot-clean carpet stains or book a carpet clean if your lease requires it
Take dated photos and video of every room after the clean, and keep the cleaner's receipt. If your landlord deducts cleaning fees, that's your evidence. Our inspection checklist below creates a room-by-room record you can print or copy.
How to choose a cleaning service
- Confirm they're insured and bonded and run background checks on staff.
- Ask for a written list of what "move-out clean" includes — inside appliances is often an add-on.
- Look for a re-clean guarantee if the landlord flags anything within 24–48 hours.
- Book 1–2 weeks ahead; month-end dates fill up fast because that's when most leases end.
- Schedule the clean after the movers are done so the cleaner can reach every corner.
Don't skip the move-in clean
Turnover cleans between tenants are sometimes rushed. A move-in clean before your furniture arrives is easier than cleaning around boxes — and it's the moment to document any existing damage so you're not charged for it later. Pair it with our move-in inspection checklist.
Free tool: Move-In Inspection Checklist
Walk through each room, rate the condition and add notes. Copy or print the report and email it to your landlord with photos.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a move-out cleaning cost?
Most renters pay roughly $180–$500 depending on the size and condition of the home and whether inside-appliance cleaning or carpet shampooing is included.
Can a landlord charge me for cleaning?
Landlords can generally deduct reasonable cleaning costs if the unit is left dirtier than normal wear and tear. They usually can't charge you for routine turnover tasks like repainting after a normal tenancy. Rules vary by state.
When should I schedule the move-out clean?
After everything is out of the unit and before your final walkthrough — ideally the day after the movers, leaving time for touch-ups.
Is a move-in clean worth it?
Yes if the unit wasn't cleaned well between tenants. It's also the best time to photograph and record existing damage.
