DIY Move‑Out Cleaning Prep Tips Before You Call the Professionals

After 40 years in the cleaning industry, working with thousands of renters across Chicago, I’ve learned that the most successful move-out cleanings often start before our team even steps through the door. A bit of thoughtful preparation on your part can save time, reduce your bill, and make the deep cleaning process much more effective.

Here’s how you can prep your apartment for a smooth, professional-grade move-out cleaning.

Clear the Clutter: Empty Cabinets, Closets, and Hidden Spaces Before Your Cleaning Appointment

It’s surprising how often renters leave behind full drawers, nearly empty shampoo bottles in showers, or forgotten Tupperware in the fridge. If you want our team to truly deep clean your home, all surfaces need to be empty and accessible.

Take time to:

  • Clear out closets, drawers, and cabinets

  • Remove all food items from the pantry and refrigerator

  • Empty out under-sink storage and medicine cabinets

When every surface is ready for cleaning, we can sanitize and polish without delays.

A Quick Dusting Helps Us Focus on the Deep Detail Work

While our team handles all the scrubbing, disinfecting, and polishing, a light round of dusting by you ahead of time can make a big difference.

Use a microfiber cloth or Swiffer to gently dust:

  • Window ledges and blinds

  • Ceiling fan blades and light fixtures

  • Baseboards and molding

This prep allows us to dig deeper into the areas that really need attention—and finish faster so you can move forward with peace of mind.

Scuffs and Marks on Walls? Tackle Them Beforehand

Walls are often overlooked, but they’re one of the first things landlords notice during final inspections.

Using a damp cloth or a melamine sponge (like a Magic Eraser), gently remove:

  • Smudges near light switches and door frames

  • Fingerprints in hallways or around furniture

  • Any small scuff marks or splashes

According to PODS’ Move-Out Cleaning Checklist, addressing visible wall issues is an effective way to prevent security deposit deductions. Our team can handle full wall washing if needed, but this gives you a strong head start.

Remove All Fixtures, Anchors, and Wall Mounts You Installed

Be sure to remove any additions you’ve made—like mounted shelves, curtain rods, TV wall mounts, or wall hooks.

If your lease agreement requires it, you should also patch and repaint the holes. It’s a small job that helps leave a great final impression with your landlord or property manager.

Don’t Forget the Fridge—Clean It Out and Prop the Door

Refrigerators are one of the biggest move-out culprits. Clean out all food, unplug the unit if you’re done using it, and leave the door propped open slightly to prevent mildew.

When we come in, we’ll scrub all shelves, drawers, and seals—but having it empty ensures a full clean and no lingering odors.

Packed boxes and cleaning gear ready for move-out day

Share Special Cleaning Notes and Unit Details in Advance

Every home is different, and so is every move. If your apartment has pet hair buildup, a wine stain on the carpet, or years of dust behind heavy furniture, let us know beforehand. It helps us bring the right tools and products—and sometimes even allocate more time.

If you’re in a rush, we also offer same day apartment cleaning services when available, ensuring you’re never left in a bind.

Move-out cleaning service wiping down kitchen counter

Why DIY Prep + Professional Cleaning Is a Smart Move

At Karen’s Green Maids, we’ve earned our reputation by combining reliable results with trusted service. We’re licensed, bonded, insured, and certified in eco-friendly cleaning—which means your space gets sparkling clean without harsh chemicals.

We’ve cleaned over 12,000 homes across Chicago, received the Chicago Green Living Award, and maintain a 4.9-star average across Yelp and Google. Property managers and realtors across Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and West Town trust us for professional, last-step cleanings that help renters leave with confidence.

In fact:

  • 73% of our clients say our clean helped them recover their full deposit

  • 61% of customers choose us again after their first move-out clean

  • More than 80% of our bookings now request green cleaning options

These numbers don’t lie—quality cleaning, done right, leads to loyal customers and great outcomes.

The Move-Out Cleaning Experience That Combines Your Effort with Our Proven Process

We don’t expect your apartment to be spotless before we arrive, but your preparation allows us to work smarter and deliver exceptional results.

With a bit of dusting, decluttering, and fridge-cleaning on your end, we’ll come in and take care of the heavy-duty sanitizing, scrubbing, and polishing. Together, we’ll help ensure your landlord is impressed—and your deposit stays intact.

Let us help make your next move a clean and stress-free experience. Whether you’re planning weeks ahead or need same day apartment cleaning, we’re here to help.

Madison GreenKaren's Green Maids