Apartment Cleaning Checklist: Deep Clean Your Rental the Right Way
Whether you’re preparing to move out or just trying to stay on top of your space, having a reliable apartment cleaning checklist makes the job easier and ensures nothing gets overlooked.
At ExpertPM, we manage rental properties across Pennsylvania and know exactly what landlords look for during inspections. Whether you’re tackling a spring clean or prepping for move-out, this checklist has your back—and your security deposit.
Pair this with our Tenant Move-Out Checklist for a complete move-out strategy.
Why Use an Apartment Cleaning Checklist?
- Helps you stay organized
- Saves time and prevents missed spots
- Reduces stress during move-outs
- Protects your security deposit
Recommended Cleaning Supplies (with Links)
Before diving in, gather these must-haves:
- ✅ All-purpose cleaner (Mrs. Meyer’s or Method)
- ✅ Disinfectant spray or wipes (Lysol or Clorox)
- ✅ Glass cleaner (Windex)
- ✅ Baking soda + vinegar
- ✅ Scrub brushes and sponges
- ✅ Microfiber cloths
- ✅ Magic Erasers
- ✅ Vacuum or broom/dustpan combo
- ✅ Mop and bucket
- ✅ Trash bags
- ✅ Rubber gloves
With the right tools in hand, let’s clean room-by-room.
Kitchen Cleaning Checklist
Appliances
- Clean inside/outside of fridge and freezer
- Wipe down microwave interior and buttons
- Scrub stovetop, oven, and burners
- Clean dishwasher door and filter
- Sanitize garbage disposal with baking soda and lemon
Surfaces
- Disinfect countertops
- Wipe all cabinet fronts and handles
- Clean backsplash
Floors & Trash
- Sweep and mop
- Empty and sanitize trash/recycle bins
🧽 Try: Scrub Daddy Sponges and Bar Keepers Friend for tough stovetop or sink stains.
Bathroom Cleaning Checklist
Toilet
- Scrub inside and under the rim
- Wipe tank, seat, and base
- Disinfect handle
Shower & Tub
- Remove soap scum
- Clean grout with baking soda paste
- Polish fixtures
Sink & Mirror
- Scrub basin
- Wipe cabinet shelves and drawers
- Polish mirror with glass cleaner
Floors
- Sweep and mop
- Empty and clean trash bin
- Replace floor mats if needed
🧽 Try: Grout cleaning brushes or scrubbing drill attachments for tough grout work.
Bedroom Cleaning Checklist
Surfaces
- Dust furniture, headboards, and lamps
- Wipe windowsills and baseboards
- Clean ceiling fans
Closets
- Vacuum floors
- Dust shelves and remove hangers
Floors
- Vacuum carpet or mop hardwood
- Use magic erasers on scuffs and spots
🧺 Optional: Under-bed storage bins to keep things organized during regular cleaning.
Living Room Cleaning Checklist
Furniture
- Vacuum couch cushions
- Dust coffee tables, stands, bookshelves
- Spot clean stains with upholstery cleaner
Windows & Surfaces
- Clean windows and blinds
- Wipe outlets, switches, and baseboards
- Dust electronics and screens
🧼 Try: Screen-safe electronic wipes
Entryway & Hall Cleaning Checklist
- Sweep or vacuum floors
- Clean doors and trim
- Wipe down railings or stair treads
- Remove all shoes and mats
- Disinfect doorknobs
🧼 Tip: Use multi-surface disinfecting spray to save time in small spaces.
Final Touches for Move-Out Cleaning
If you’re leaving your apartment, these last items help finalize your checklist:
- Remove all trash and belongings
- Patch small holes (if allowed by your lease)
- Replace air filters (if applicable)
- Clean washer/dryer units
- Wipe thermostat and all light switches
- Take photos of cleaned space for your records
Be sure to follow our full Tenant Move-Out Checklist for a deposit-friendly departure.
Apartment Cleaning Checklist Summary Table
| Room | Key Tasks |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | Clean all appliances, sanitize counters, mop floors |
| Bathroom | Disinfect toilet, scrub shower and sink, clean mirrors and tile |
| Bedroom | Dust surfaces, clean floors and closet, remove scuffs |
| Living Room | Vacuum upholstery, dust electronics, wipe down surfaces and blinds |
| Hall/Entryway | Sweep floors, wipe doors and railings, clean light switches |
| Final Touches | Trash removal, wall patching, deep clean laundry units, take photos |
How Often Should You Deep Clean an Apartment?
- Weekly: General tidying, wiping surfaces, trash removal
- Monthly: Mop floors, clean windows, dust baseboards
- Quarterly: Scrub appliances, deep clean bathroom
- Annually: Full deep clean like this checklist
- Move-Out: Follow the full checklist with photos
Should You Hire a Cleaner?
If you’re short on time or want guaranteed results, hiring a professional cleaner could be worth it. Look for one that offers:
- Flat-rate move-out cleaning
- Receipt/invoice for landlord documentation
- Experience with apartment turnover cleans
Ask your ExpertPM property manager if referrals or flat-rate move-out cleans are available.
