Moving out of a home can be a bittersweet experience, filled with packing, planning, and a whole lot of cleaning. I’ve moved several times—from Indiana to Texas, Ohio, Arkansas, and finally Nevada—and one thing I’ve learned along the way is that doing your own move-out cleaning can save you a significant amount of money. Whether you’re a homeowner preparing to sell or a renter looking to get your full security deposit back, these tips will help you leave the space spotless without breaking the bank.
Why Cleaning Your Own Home Is a Smart Move
Professional move-out cleaning services typically charge between $200 and $500, depending on the size of your home and location. For instance, when I was leaving a three-bedroom house in Texas, I was quoted $400 for cleaning services. By spending just $50 on supplies and tackling the cleaning myself, I saved $350. Multiply that by several moves, and you’re looking at thousands of dollars saved over time!
Move-Out Cleaning Made Simple: High-Impact Areas to Focus On
Whether you’re moving out of a rental or selling your house, some cleaning tasks matter more than others. If you’re short on time, focus on these key areas that make the biggest difference:
Kitchen: Clean Where It Counts
The kitchen is often the most used and dirtiest area in any home. Here’s where to start:
- Oven and stovetop: Remove grease and burnt-on food using a baking soda and vinegar paste.
- Refrigerator: Empty and wipe down shelves, clean the drawers, and don’t forget to clean behind it.
- Sink and faucet: Scrub away water stains and food residue for a sparkling finish.
Bathroom: Pay Attention to Detail
Bathrooms are small but require attention to detail. Prioritize these:
- Toilet: Scrub inside, outside, and the base thoroughly.
- Shower and tub: Remove soap scum and hard water stains using a mixture of baking soda and dish soap.
- Mirror and sink: Polish the mirror with streak-free cleaner and scrub the sink basin until it shines.
Walls and Floors: Maximize Visual Appeal
These areas are the first things people notice when they walk in:
- Walls: Patch nail holes with spackle, then touch up the paint. For scuff marks, a magic eraser works wonders.
- Floors: Sweep, mop, and vacuum. Rent a carpet cleaner to tackle stains on carpets.
Finishing Touches That Make a Difference
The little things add up to create a polished look:
- Windows: Clean both the glass and window sills.
- Baseboards and vents: Dust and wipe down these often-forgotten areas.
Tips for Homeowners Getting Ready to Sell

Selling a home means going the extra mile to impress buyers. In addition to the essentials:
- Declutter and depersonalize: Pack away personal items so buyers can imagine themselves in the space.
- Polish hardware and fixtures: Make doorknobs, faucets, and light fixtures shine.
- Garage and outdoor spaces: Sweep out the garage and tidy up the yard for maximum curb appeal.
- Closets and cabinets: Leave storage spaces empty and clean so they look spacious and inviting.
Tips for Renters to Get the Full Security Deposit Back
If you’re a renter, getting your deposit back depends on how well you leave the property. Focus on these areas:
- Carpets: Rent a carpet cleaner or hire a professional if stains are present.
- Appliances: Deep clean the oven, stovetop, microwave, and refrigerator.
- Walls and nail holes: Patch up nail holes and touch up paint as needed.
- Trash removal: Take out all garbage and ensure the property is debris-free.
- Bathrooms: Eliminate hard water stains and leave grout looking fresh.
Make Your Move-Out Cleaning Manageable

Even if you’re short on time, you can tackle the cleaning efficiently by:
- Creating a Plan: Break down tasks by room and prioritize the most visible areas.
- Gathering Supplies: Keep essentials like sponges, microfiber cloths, vinegar, and an all-purpose cleaner handy.
- Getting Help: Enlist family members or friends to make the process faster and easier.
How Much Can You Save?
Here’s the breakdown of professional cleaning costs versus DIY:
- Small apartments: $200-$250 for professional cleaning
- Single-family homes: $300-$500+
By handling the cleaning yourself, you can save hundreds of dollars. Most of the supplies you’ll need are already in your home, and even if you need to restock, the cost is usually around $50.
Final Thoughts: Leave a Lasting Impression While Saving Money
Move-out cleaning doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. By focusing on high-impact areas like the kitchen, bathrooms, walls, and floors, you can save money and still leave a space that looks professionally cleaned. Whether you’re trying to get your deposit back or preparing your home for a buyer, the effort you put in will be well worth it.
Not only will you save a significant amount of money, but you’ll also enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you handled it yourself. Moving out is a fresh start—why not make it a clean one too?