Why Skipping Appliance Deep‑Cleans Can Cost You Hundreds on Your Deposit
After decades in the cleaning industry, we’ve seen it all—from beautifully maintained apartments to move-out cleanings rushed in the final hours. One mistake we see far too often is tenants forgetting to deep-clean their appliances. It’s one of the most overlooked areas in a move-out clean, and it can cost you dearly.
Whether it’s a greasy oven, a food-splattered microwave, or a mildew-smelling washing machine, property managers notice. In fact, according to a recent rental inspection report, unclean appliances are among the top five reasons security deposits are withheld.
Property managers know where to look—and unclean appliances top their checklist
If you think your landlord won’t notice a stained stovetop or crumbs in the fridge, think again. Many property managers perform detailed inspections with checklists that include every major appliance. When tenants skip deep-cleaning these items, they often get hit with cleaning charges ranging from $100 to $300 per appliance—often taken straight from the deposit.
We’ve worked with countless property management companies across Chicago, and they’re strict for a reason: leaving appliances dirty invites pests and shortens appliance lifespan, making it harder for them to turn over the unit for the next tenant.
How our trained team ensures every appliance shines before inspection day
At Karen’s Green Maids, we’ve designed our training program with move-out perfection in mind. Every team member goes through a rigorous onboarding and certification process that focuses heavily on appliance care. That includes:
Oven degreasing without harsh chemicals
Refrigerator sanitization and odor removal
Dishwasher filter cleaning and inspection
Washer and dryer lint removal and mold prevention
We don’t just do surface-level wipe-downs—we go behind, beneath, and inside. That’s why so many of our clients report getting 100% of their security deposit back.
We bring experience, professionalism, and results to every job
With over 40 years of cleaning experience under our belt, we’ve fine-tuned the art of the move-out clean. Our crews are fully licensed, bonded, and insured, and we’re proud to be certified in green cleaning practices that are safe for both people and pets. We’ve earned consistent five-star ratings on Google and Yelp, won local “Best Eco Cleaning” awards, and built long-term partnerships with trusted realtors and leasing agents in the Chicago area.
As of this year, we’ve served more than 9,000 move-out clients—and counting. It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about leaving homes in better shape than when our clients first moved in.
Why expert appliance care matters more than ever in today’s rental market
Chicago’s rental market is competitive, and landlords expect their units returned spotless. A 2023 tenant satisfaction survey showed that 76% of renters said they lost part of their deposit due to cleaning issues. And in many cases, it wasn’t the floors or counters—it was the appliances.
That’s where hiring expert house cleaners for move outs becomes essential. We know exactly what landlords expect and go above and beyond to make sure nothing is missed.
For tenants preparing to move, the American Cleaning Institute offers helpful tips on how deep cleaning appliances prevents long-term issues like bacteria buildup and energy inefficiency. It’s one more reason why this part of your move-out clean deserves special attention.
Every detail matters, and our customers feel the difference
We don’t cut corners, and our clients can feel it—both in their clean spaces and their returned deposits. Here’s what makes us different:
We offer eco-friendly products that clean without leaving harmful residue
Our team arrives with a full cleaning checklist customized for your unit
We offer photo proof for property managers when requested
Our appliance-focused deep cleans save renters from unexpected costs
Not to mention, we offer custom move-out cleaning packages based on the size of your unit and what’s included in your lease agreement—because every home is different, and your cleaning plan should be too.
Taking the Time to Handle Details Now Helps You Avoid Major Issues Down the Road
Skipping appliance deep-cleans may feel like a time-saver, but it can lead to serious financial consequences. Our team is here to take that stress off your plate. We know the standards, we’ve trained for the details, and we’ve earned the trust of thousands of Chicago renters who didn’t want surprises on move-out day.
Let us help make your next move as smooth—and clean—as possible.