End of Tenancy Cleaning Checklist
Ensuring your rental property is thoroughly cleaned before handing it back is essential to secure your deposit and leave on good terms with your landlord. This checklist provides a detailed guide to help you complete the cleaning efficiently and effectively if you decide to venture in the hard and long process of performing this particular cleaning job yourself. We've done everything possible to help you with the process aside from cleaning for you.
If you find this checklist overwhelming or need professional help, keep in mind that our cleaning teams are a simple click of a button away. So do not hesitate to click below to get a quote for expert end of tenancy cleaning london services tailored to your needs at an affordable price.
Our end of tenancy cleaning checklist is thorough, but there are still some pitfalls that could result in a deduction from your deposit. Still, the checklist is super comprehensive and follows all guides and requirements our experience has thought us and it super up to date for 2025.
Additionally the checklist is interactive and you can take it with you on your phone and click on each checkbox once the job is completed. We've added a progress bar at the top of the page to help you keep track of the progress you have made with your end of tenancy cleaning and not only that, but we have also made sure to outline the super important parts that require more time and effort.
Checklist broken down into sections and rooms
Cleaning your rental property thoroughly is essential to ensure you receive your full tenancy deposit back. This checklist provides a detailed guide to help you clean each area effectively.
Checklist for cleaning bedrooms
Step one is to take care of dust and dirt. The best way to tackle this is to wipe rooms from top to bottom.
- 1.Use an extendable duster to carefully remove cobwebs from all ceilings, corners, and hard-to-reach areas, ensuring every part of the room is cleared of spider webs.
- 2.Pay close attention to wardrobes, shelving, and cupboards. Use a microfiber cloth or duster to remove dust and debris, ensuring the surfaces are clean and allergen-free.
- 3.Wipe away accumulated dust and grime from the tops of doors, which are often overlooked during regular cleaning but easily gather dirt over time.
- 4.Properly vacuum both sides of curtains and blinds to remove dust, pet hair, and allergens. If the curtains are machine washable, consider laundering them for an even fresher finish.
- 5.Use a glass cleaner to thoroughly wipe and polish mirrors, picture frames, and other decorative wall items, ensuring they are spotless and streak-free.
- 6.Thoroughly vacuum all sides of the mattress, paying attention to seams and edges where dust mites and debris can accumulate. Consider using a fabric refresher or an anti-allergen spray for added cleanliness.
- 7.After vacuuming, mop all hard floors, including laminate, using an appropriate cleaning solution. Ensure the floors are streak-free and polished to leave them looking pristine and well-maintained.
Checklist for cleaning bathrooms
Dirt and mildew can be an issue in bathrooms. Toilets, showers, tiles, and baths should be cleaned as thoroughly as possible.
- 1.Thoroughly clean basins, taps, and fittings: Scrub and wipe basins, taps, and other fittings using a bathroom cleaner or mild detergent. Pay attention to crevices where grime tends to accumulate, leaving them spotless and shiny.
- 2.Use a vinegar solution or a specialized hard water stain remover to eliminate stubborn white or cloudy marks on surfaces, ensuring a pristine finish. 3.Scrub areas with visible limescale deposits using a descaler or natural solutions like lemon juice or vinegar. Focus on taps, showerheads, and any other affected fixtures.
- 4.Take apart soap dispensers (if possible), clean them thoroughly, and rinse to remove residue and prevent clogs. Ensure both the inside and outside are spotless.
- 5.Use a damp cloth to clean radiators and towel rails, then polish them with a dry cloth to remove streaks and give a sparkling finish. Don’t forget to clean between the radiator fins if accessible.
- 6.Apply a toilet cleaner inside the bowl and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a toilet brush. Clean the seat, lid, and exterior surfaces with a disinfectant. For bidets, ensure all fittings are sanitized and grime-free.
- 7.If reachable, wipe down and clean the plumbing pipes and the area behind the toilet, which can collect dust, dirt, and mildew over time.
- 8.Use a glass cleaner or a vinegar solution to wipe down shower screens, removing water stains, soap scum, and streaks. For tougher marks, use a non-abrasive scrubber.
- 9.Thoroughly clean the bathtub to remove any soap residue, stains, or signs of mildew. Use a bathroom cleaner and a scrub brush for a deep clean.
- 10.Pour a drain cleaner or a natural solution (baking soda and vinegar) into the drains to clear clogs and remove odors. Flush with hot water afterward for a clean finish.
- 11.Spray glass cleaner on mirrors and glass surfaces, then wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine. Pay extra attention to corners and edges.
- 12.Remove showerheads (if possible) and soak them in a descaling solution. Scrub taps and other metal surfaces to remove watermarks and leave them gleaming.
- 13.Scrub and rinse the toothbrush holder or area, removing any toothpaste residue or accumulated dirt. Use a disinfectant to sanitize the surface.
- 14.Remove dust and grime from extractor fans using a brush or vacuum attachment. If accessible, clean the internal components for better airflow and reduced odors.
- 15.Use a tile cleaner or soapy water to clean reachable tiles. Scrub the grout to remove mold or mildew and restore the original look of the tiles.
Checklist for cleaning furnishings
Landlords or their letting agents will likely check for dirty furnishings upon their inspections, so carefully wipe, vacuum, and clean all furnishings.
- 1.Wipe and polish tables, countertops, and other worktop surfaces: Use a soft microfiber cloth and a suitable surface cleaner to thoroughly wipe down tables, countertops, and other worktop surfaces. Focus on removing dust, spills, and smudges, then polish them to a streak-free shine.
- 2.Remove fingerprints and marks: Pay special attention to frequently touched areas such as tabletops and furniture edges. Use a damp cloth with a mild cleaner to remove stubborn fingerprints, grease, and marks, ensuring the surfaces are spotless. 3.Take removable sofa cushions outdoors and firmly pound them to release trapped dust, pet hair, and debris. This method helps to refresh the cushions and reduce allergens.
- 4.Use a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to clean both the surface and the crevices of the sofa. Remove all cushions and vacuum underneath to ensure no crumbs or dirt are left behind.
- 5.Shift furniture such as sofas, tables, and chairs to thoroughly vacuum the area beneath. This step ensures hidden dust, dirt, and debris are effectively removed.
- 6.Use a suitable wood cleaner to wipe down all wooden furniture and fixtures. Polish them afterward with a dry cloth to restore their natural shine and remove any remaining dust or residue.
Checklist for cleaning carpets
Carpets will also likely be checked by landlords or letting agents wanting to ensure the property is in an acceptable condition when tenants move out. Carpet cleaning can be difficult without suitable equipment, so hiring a carpet cleaning machine can save you time and effort.
- 1.Use a vacuum cleaner with a crevice tool to meticulously clean the edges of carpets where dust and debris tend to accumulate. Pay extra attention to corners and skirting boards to ensure no dirt is left behind.
- 2.Shift all movable furniture to access areas beneath and behind it. Vacuum these hidden spots thoroughly, as they often harbor dust, crumbs, and allergens that can affect the overall cleanliness of the room.
- 3. If possible, use a steam cleaner to sanitize and refresh the carpets. Steam cleaning helps remove embedded dirt, bacteria, and allergens, leaving the carpets looking and smelling fresh.
- 4.For isolated stains, use a stain remover or a mixture of mild detergent and water. Gently scrub the affected area with a soft brush or cloth. Blot with a clean, damp cloth to lift the stain and prevent spreading.
Checklist for cleaning windows
Everything within your rental property should be subject to a thorough clean before you move out. Cleaning the inside of the windows is no exception.
- 1.Use a glass cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar to remove fingerprints, smudges, and oily stains from windows. Focus on areas commonly touched, such as the edges of the glass or near window latches.
- 2.Clean the glass with a microfiber cloth or a squeegee, ensuring no streaks are left behind. For best results, wipe in a horizontal or vertical motion, and avoid cleaning windows in direct sunlight to prevent quick drying and streaking.
- 3.Use a soft brush or vacuum attachment to remove dust and debris from windowsills. Follow up by wiping them with a damp cloth to remove dirt and any accumulated grime.
- 4.Clean the frames with a mild soap solution or an appropriate cleaner, paying attention to corners and crevices. Dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth to prevent water stains or damage.
- 5.Use a duster or vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove dust from blinds and shades. For curtains, vacuum both sides or wash them according to the care label for a refreshed look.
Checklist for cleaning drawers, cupboards, and shelves
Is the property furnished by the landlord? It’s not uncommon to forget a drawer or cupboard that isn’t used often. Always inspect each drawer, cupboard, and shelf.
- 1.Empty all drawers completely, ensuring no items are left behind. Take this opportunity to sort through the contents and set aside anything you no longer need.
- 2.Dispose of old or unused items responsibly. Recycle paper and packaging, and donate reusable goods to minimize waste while decluttering the space.
- 3.Use a damp cloth or an all-purpose cleaner to thoroughly clean the interior and exterior surfaces of the drawers. Pay extra attention to corners where dust and debris can gather.
- 4.Handles are high-touch areas that often collect dirt and grease. Use a microfiber cloth with a mild cleaning solution to wipe around the handles, ensuring they are spotless and free of residue.
Checklist for cleaning appliances
You will need to check your tenancy agreement regarding your responsibilities for cleaning appliances provided by the landlord. For example, does the fridge/freezer need to be turned off upon check-out?
- Fridge/freezer: Remove dirt, mildew, and leftover food by emptying it completely, discarding expired items, and wiping all surfaces with a mild cleaner.
- Fridge/freezer: Wipe and polish handles to remove fingerprints and restore their shine using a disinfectant or mild cleaner.
- Fridge/freezer: Clean rubber seal by inspecting for grime or mold and scrubbing it gently with warm soapy water to ensure a tight seal.
- Fridge/freezer: Move it and clean underneath and behind, vacuuming and mopping to remove dust and dirt that can affect performance.
- Fridge/freezer: Dismantle, wash, and rinse slots, grills, and shelves inside with warm soapy water. Dry them thoroughly before placing them back.
- Fridge/freezer: Wipe and polish the exterior using a damp cloth and a suitable stainless-steel polish to eliminate streaks and fingerprints.
- Dishwasher: Clean the dishwasher of food and soap deposits by running an empty cleaning cycle with vinegar or a specialized cleaner.
- Dishwasher: Remove all dirt, mildew, and food deposits by scrubbing the interior with a sponge and mild detergent.
- Dishwasher: Inspect and clean filters by removing them and rinsing thoroughly under running water to clear debris and grease.
- Dishwasher: Wipe the rubber seal with a damp cloth to remove grime and prevent mold buildup.
- Dishwasher: Move it and clean underneath and behind, vacuuming and mopping to ensure a clean surrounding area.
- Dishwasher: Wipe the soap dispenser drawer and remove marks and stains by soaking and scrubbing it thoroughly.
- Dishwasher: Wipe down handles to remove smudges and fingerprints for a clean finish.
- Washing machine: Clean the drum from leftovers and stains by running an empty cycle with a machine cleaner or vinegar.
- Washing machine: Inspect and clean filters to ensure proper drainage and prevent clogs.
- Washing machine: Inspect the rubber seal for trapped dirt or mold and clean it with warm soapy water or a vinegar solution.
- Washing machine: Move it and clean underneath and behind to remove dust and grime from hidden areas.
- Washing machine: Wipe the soap dispenser drawer and remove marks and stains by soaking and scrubbing it with warm water.
- Washing machine: Clean handles thoroughly with a damp cloth and mild cleaner to remove dirt and grime.
- Tumble dryer: Clean inside and out by removing lint and debris from the drum and wiping the exterior with a damp cloth.
- Tumble dryer: Inspect and clean the rubber seal to remove lint or trapped dust.
- Tumble dryer: Clean the soap dispenser drawer, if applicable, to remove detergent residue.
- Tumble dryer: Inspect and clean the filter thoroughly to ensure efficient drying and prevent fire hazards.
- Oven and microwave: Clean and de-grease oven, extractor fan, hob, and grill using a degreaser to remove stubborn grime.
- Oven and microwave: Clean and de-grease the microwave inside and out using a vinegar solution or all-purpose cleaner.
- Oven and microwave: Scrub off food deposits and grime using an oven cleaner or baking soda paste for tough spots.
- Oven and microwave: Clean grill pan and oven racks by soaking them in hot soapy water and scrubbing thoroughly.
- Oven and microwave: Clean the inner of both the oven and microwave, focusing on corners and crevices.
- Oven and microwave: Inspect and wipe the rubber seals to ensure proper functionality and cleanliness.
- Oven and microwave: Inspect and wipe all buttons to remove grease and ensure proper operation.
- Oven and microwave: Clean exterior and remove stains and marks using a microfiber cloth and mild cleaner.
- Toaster: Clean, wipe, and polish the exterior to remove fingerprints and grime.
- Toaster: Remove any food deposits and bread crumb leftovers by emptying the crumb tray and shaking out debris.
- Toaster: Clean within as much as possible using a soft brush or vacuum attachment to remove crumbs and dirt.
- Toaster: De-grease handles by wiping them with a mild cleaner to remove any sticky residue.
- Toaster: Remove grime by scrubbing stubborn spots on the exterior and around buttons.
Smaller details to check when cleaning a property
There are other smaller tasks to consider to help ensure the full tenancy deposit is returned. This can include:
- Ensure all rubbish is in the appropriate outside bins: Double-check that all waste, including recyclables, is sorted and placed in the correct outside bins to comply with local waste disposal regulations.
- Rinse out rubbish bins: Wash and disinfect indoor and outdoor bins to remove lingering odors and stains. Use a hose or bucket of soapy water and scrub thoroughly to ensure the bins are fresh and clean.
