Tips for Effective End of Tenancy Cleaning
To ensure the return of your security deposit in full, you must leave the rented property clean and presentable when moving out. This includes completing an end of tenancy cleaning to ensure that the property is in the same condition as when you first moved in.
Although many renters prefer to hire professional cleaning services, it is possible to achieve comparable results with a do-it-yourself approach by putting in some extra effort.
In this article, we will discuss various do-it-yourself (DIY) strategies for efficient After Tenancy Cleaning. These strategies will cover everything from the kitchen to the bathroom and beyond
Kitchen
Cleaning the kitchen can be a challenging task, but it is also crucial as it is where food is prepared. Begin by emptying all cabinets and drawers and giving them a thorough cleaning, including the shelves and handles.
Clean the interior of the refrigerator and freezer, defrosting if necessary, and discarding any stale or expired items.
Don’t forget the oven. Use a product made explicitly for oven cleaning or a mixture of baking soda and water. Allow the mixture to sit on the surface for at least 30 minutes before wiping it off with a sponge or towel. Also, clean the stove top, extractor fan, and other appliances like the microwave and dishwasher.
Next, use a solution of hot water and dish detergent to scrub the sink and faucets. If needed, use a cleaner specifically for limescale.
Living room and bedrooms
To begin the end of tenancy cleaning process, start by dusting all surfaces in the room, which includes shelves, tables, and picture frames. Afterward, use a damp cloth to clean the surfaces and remove any scratches or stains.
Moreover, make sure to clean both the inside and outside of the windows to ensure there are no smudges or streaks left. Additionally, if you have curtains, follow the washing instructions on the label and clean any blinds or shutters in the room.
If your room has carpets, it’s crucial to vacuum them thoroughly, paying close attention to crevices and edges. If you encounter tough stains or grime that are difficult to remove, consider hiring a professional carpet cleaner to ensure the carpets are left in the same condition as when you first moved in.
Bathroom
Bathrooms are particularly important to clean for end of tenancy cleaning, as they can harbour bacteria and germs.
Begin by using a cleaner specifically for bathrooms to scrub the toilet, including the lid and base.
Scrub the sink thoroughly, paying attention to the faucets, soap dishes, and toothbrush holders. Use a cleaner for limescale if needed.
Clean the bathtub or shower, focusing on areas with soap scum or mildew. Use a cleaner for tough stains or limescale.
Clean the tiles and grout, especially the crevices and edges.
Consider hiring a professional for stubborn stains or mould.
Lastly, wipe down the windows and mirrors in the bathroom to leave them spotless.
General tips
When it comes to cleaning the home that you rent, the best results can be achieved by following these general guidelines:
Do not wait until the eleventh hour to begin cleaning, since this will require more time than you expect.
Begin at one end of the property, and proceed through each room, concentrating on one section at a time as you move toward the other end.
Before beginning the cleaning process, check that you have all of the necessary cleaning supplies and equipment, such as gloves, sponges, clothes, and specialized cleaners.
Pay close attention to the tiniest aspects of the property, such as the door handles, light switches, and skirting boards. Although these aspects are easy to overlook, they have a significant impact on the overall cleanliness of the home or building
Before entering into tenancy, you should take pictures of the property to document the state it is in. Remember to take again photos after you have finished your end of tenancy cleaning. If there are any disagreements with the landlord regarding the return of your deposit, this will be of assistance to you.
Make a list of everything that needs to be done, and then cross things off the list as you finish them. This will help you avoid forgetting anything.
If you have friends or members of your own family who are able to lend a hand, engage their services in order to complete the task in a more expedient and controllable manner.
If there are any minor repairs or touch-ups that need to be completed before the final inspection, such as filling up nail holes or repainting scuffed walls, make sure you give enough time to do these jobs.
End of tenancy cleaning is not easy. Ensure that you clean every nook and cranny, taking your time to do so, as any part of the property, no matter how insignificant, can result in a reduction of your security deposit.
Conclusion
By following our suggestions for a thorough end of tenancy cleaning, you can ensure that the rental property is left in a clean and presentable condition, increasing the chances of receiving your full security deposit.
Remember to start early, approach the cleaning systematically, use the right tools, and pay attention to details to achieve the best results.