Moving out of a rented property can be stressful. From packing up your belongings to organizing transport, it’s easy to overlook one very important step, thorough cleaning.
But here’s the thing:
If your landlord or letting agent finds the property in poor condition, they can deduct a portion or even all of your deposit. In fact, according to studies, cleaning is the number one reason tenants lose their deposit in the UK.
At EcoTouch Cleaners, we help tenants in Derby and nearby areas get their deposits back with professional end-of-tenancy cleaning. But whether you’re hiring help or doing it yourself, this ultimate cleaning checklist will guide you through everything you need to clean before you move out.
What is End-of-Tenancy Cleaning?
End-of-tenancy cleaning (also known as move-out cleaning) is a deep, detailed cleaning of your rental property. It goes far beyond normal weekly cleaning. The goal is to return the home to the condition it was in when you moved in.
This means:
- Removing all dust, dirt, stains, and smells
- Cleaning every room top to bottom
- Meeting landlord or agency inspection standards
How This Cleaning Checklist Will Help You
This guide is broken down by room and task, so you can:
- ✅ Stay organized during your move
- ✅ Avoid missing key areas
- ✅ Impress your landlord or letting agent
- ✅ Increase your chances of getting your full deposit back
Whether you’re renting a flat, house, or student accommodation, this checklist will help you clean like a pro—or know what to expect if you hire professional cleaners like EcoTouch Cleaners.
General Cleaning Tasks (All Rooms)
These tasks apply to every room in your home.
Walls and Ceilings
- Remove cobwebs from ceilings and corners
- Wipe off scuff marks, fingerprints, or stains on walls
- Spot clean any spills or dirt
- Remove any nails or hooks (if allowed)
Floors
- Vacuum carpets and rugs
- Mop hardwood, laminate, or tiled floors
- Shampoo carpets if stained (or hire professionals)
Windows
- Clean inside of windows with glass cleaner
- Wipe down window sills and tracks
- Remove any stickers or marks
Doors & Skirting Boards
- Wipe down all doors and frames
- Clean skirting boards throughout the property
- Disinfect door handles and light switches
Radiators and Vents
- Dust and wipe radiators
- Check and clean air vents if accessible
Bedroom Cleaning Checklist
Your bedroom should feel like a clean hotel room once you’re done.
What to Clean:
- Dust and wipe wardrobes, dressers, and shelves
- Clean mirrors, glass surfaces, and lamps
- Vacuum and mop under the bed (if not built-in)
- Wash windows and blinds
- Remove personal items and rubbish
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check under the bed and inside wardrobes for forgotten belongings.
Bathroom Cleaning Checklist
This is one of the most important rooms your landlord will inspect.
Sink, Shower & Toilet:
- Remove limescale and water stains from sink and taps
- Scrub showerhead, tiles, and glass screens
- Deep clean the toilet (inside and outside)
- Clean drains and remove hair
Surfaces:
- Wipe down mirrors and tiles
- Clean all surfaces, including shelves and units
- Disinfect handles and knobs
Extras:
- Wash bath mats or remove them
- Empty and clean rubbish bins
- Ventilate to remove odors
Pro Tip: Use vinegar and baking soda for eco-friendly limescale removal.
Kitchen Cleaning Checklist
The kitchen is often the hardest room to clean but it’s also the most important. A dirty kitchen is a sure way to lose your deposit.
Appliances:
- Deep clean the oven, grill, and stovetop
- Wipe and disinfect microwave (inside and out)
- Empty and clean fridge/freezer
- Clean behind and underneath appliances (fridge, oven, etc.)
- Descale and wipe kettle
Sink and Worktops:
- Remove food residue and stains
- Clean sink and taps
- Disinfect counters and chopping boards
Cupboards and Drawers:
- Empty all cupboards
- Wipe inside and outside surfaces
- Check for crumbs or spills
Dishwasher (if present):
- Clean filter and interior
- Remove food residue
Pro Tip: Turn off and defrost the fridge 24 hours before moving out.
Living Room / Lounge Cleaning Checklist
This is the first room people usually notice, so make it shine.
What to Clean:
- Dust all surfaces, including shelves, tables, and TV units
- Clean under and behind furniture
- Wipe light switches and sockets
- Vacuum sofas and cushions
- Clean curtains or dust blinds
Electronics:
- Wipe remote controls, TVs, and sound systems
- Remove smudges from screens
Pro Tip: Use a microfiber cloth to avoid scratching screens and surfaces.
Entryway and Hallway Cleaning Checklist
Often forgotten, but this space gives the first impression.
Clean:
- Mop or vacuum the hallway floor
- Wipe light switches, skirting boards, and railings
- Dust picture frames or wall decorations
- Clean entryway windows (if any)
Bonus Areas To Clean
These are often missed but landlords check them!
Behind and Under Furniture:
- Move furniture if possible and clean behind
Light Fixtures:
- Dust and wipe ceiling lights and lamp shades
Smoke Detectors:
- Check for dust and ensure batteries are working
Outdoor Areas (If You Have Access):
- Sweep patios or balconies
- Remove rubbish or personal items from garden
What NOT to Forget!
Here are some of the most commonly missed items that can cause deductions:
- Oven trays and grill racks
- Inside kitchen drawers and cutlery trays
- Shower screens and door seals
- Window ledges and tracks
- Bathroom extractor fans
- Door frames and tops of cupboards
EcoTouch Tip: Go through the property with a flashlight, it helps you spot hidden dust and grime.
DIY vs Professional Cleaning: Which One Should You Choose?
You can clean everything yourself, but be ready to spend:
- 6–10 hours for a 1-2 bedroom flat
- 10–15+ hours for a 3+ bedroom house
You’ll also need:
- Cleaning supplies and products
- Step ladders for high spots
- Time and energy
Or…
You can hire EcoTouch Cleaners to handle it professionally, with:
- Eco-friendly products
- Agency-approved cleaning checklists
- Satisfaction guarantee
- Final walk-through with photos
For many tenants, hiring professionals is more cost-effective than losing part of their deposit.
Final Pre-Inspection Checklist
Before you hand back the keys:
✔️ Remove all personal items
✔️ Empty all bins and take out trash
✔️ Double-check storage areas
✔️ Do a final walk-through (take photos)
✔️ Return keys, remotes, and access cards
Optional: Ask your landlord for a pre-check so you can fix any missed items.
Need Help? Book EcoTouch Cleaners for Your Move-Out
Moving is hard enough, let us handle the cleaning.
At EcoTouch Cleaners, we specialize in:
- End-of-tenancy cleaning in Derby and surrounding areas
- Airbnb turnover cleaning
- Student housing and shared accommodation cleaning
- Eco-friendly, safe products
- Flexible scheduling even weekends and last-minute!
We’re trusted by tenants, landlords, and estate agents across Derby. With 5-star reviews and a money-back guarantee, your deposit is in good hands.
Book Your Move-Out Clean Today!
📞 Call Us: 07476643065
💬 Message Us
🌍 Visit: [www.ecotouchcleaners.com]