Melbourne’s competitive rental market means your end-of-lease cleaning can make or break your deposit return. A single missed spot could cost you hundreds, so you need to be thorough. That’s why we’ve compiled these essential hacks to help you get your deposit back in full.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR END OF LEASE CLEANING
Before you even start cleaning, preparation is key. A well-organised approach saves time and ensures nothing is overlooked. Here are some steps to take:
– **Inventory the Property**: Take photos of the property in its current state. This will serve as a reference for the cleaning process and for any disputes later.
– **Check the Lease Agreement**: Understand what’s included in the cleaning. Some landlords provide a basic clean, while others expect a deep clean.
– **Gather Supplies**: Have all necessary cleaning supplies ready. This includes brooms, mops, vacuums, sponges, sprays, and microfiber cloths.
– **Plan Your Schedule**: Block out time in your calendar for each room and area. This will help you stay on track and ensure nothing is missed.
HOW TO CLEAN EACH ROOM
Now that you’re prepared, let’s dive into the specifics of cleaning each room.
BEDROOMS
– **Dust and Vacuum**: Use a vacuum with a beater bar to get into the corners and under the bed. Don’t forget to dust the ceiling fan and light fixtures.
– **Wash Bedding**: Remove all bedding and wash it. If the mattress is included, vacuum it thoroughly.
– **Clean Walls and Windows**: Use a damp cloth to wipe down walls and windows. For stubborn marks, use a mild detergent solution.
– **Organise Closets**: Remove all clothes and sort them. Wash or dry clean as needed. Vacuum the floor and shelves.
LIVING ROOM
– **Dust and Vacuum**: Vacuum the entire room, paying extra attention to under the furniture and in the corners.
– **Clean Walls and Windows**: Wipe down walls and windows with a damp cloth. For the TV, use a microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints.
– **Polish Furniture**: Use a furniture polish to restore the shine to wooden furniture.
– **Vacuum Rugs**: Remove rugs and vacuum them thoroughly. If they’re included in the cleaning, wash them.
KITCHEN
– **Clean Appliances**: Wipe down the inside of the fridge, oven, and microwave. Clean the sink and stovetop.
– **Scrub Surfaces**: Use a degreaser to clean the countertops, stove, and backsplash.
– **Wash Dishes**: Load the dishwasher and run a cycle. If you have time, hand wash any dishes that need extra attention.
– **Clean the Floor**: Sweep and mop the floor. Pay extra attention to the corners and under the fridge.
BATHROOMS
– **Clean the Toilet**: Scrub the toilet bowl, seat, and lid. Don’t forget to clean around the base.
– **Wash the Sink**: Scrub the sink and faucet with a bathroom cleaner.
– **Clean the Shower or Bathtub**: Use a shower cleaner to remove soap scum and mildew. Scrub the walls and floor.
– **Wash Towels and Linen**: Remove all towels and linen and wash them.
– **Clean the Mirror**: Wipe down the mirror with a glass cleaner.
HOW TO CLEAN COMMON AREAS
In addition to the rooms, there are several common areas that need to be cleaned.
ENTRYWAY
– **Sweep and Mop**: Sweep and mop the floor. Remove any clutter and put away shoes.
– **Clean the Door**: Wipe down the door and handle with a damp cloth.
– **Dust Light Fixtures**: Dust the light fixtures and any other decor.
HALLWAYS
– **Sweep and Mop**: Sweep and mop the floor. Remove any clutter and put away shoes.
– **Dust Light Fixtures**: Dust the light fixtures and any other decor.
– **Clean the Walls**: Wipe down the walls with a damp cloth.
GARDEN OR BALCONY
– **Sweep and Mop**: Sweep and mop the floor. Remove any debris and put away gardening tools.
– **Clean the Furniture**: Wipe down any furniture with a damp cloth.
– **Water Plants**: If you have any plants, make sure to water them.
HOW TO CLEAN HARD-TO-REACH AREAS
Some areas are often overlooked but require extra attention.
BASEBOARDS
– **Dust and Vacuum**: Use a vacuum with a beater bar to get into the corners. Dust the baseboards with a feather duster.
CORNERS
– **Dust and Vacuum**: Use a vacuum with a beater bar to get into the corners. Dust the corners with a feather duster.
CEILINGS
– **Dust**: Use a duster to remove dust from the ceiling. Be careful not to scratch the paint.
HOW TO DEAL WITH STUCK-ON STAINS
Stains can be a real headache, but there are several ways to tackle them.
– **Baking Soda and Vinegar**: Mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar to create a paste. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.
– **Hydrogen Peroxide**: Apply hydrogen peroxide to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.
– **Rubbing Alcohol**: Apply rubbing alcohol to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse.
HOW TO ORGANISE AND DECLUTTER
A cluttered space is not only unsightly but can also make it harder to clean. Here are some tips to help you declutter:
– **Sort Items**: Go through each room and sort items into categories: keep, donate, sell, or trash.
– **Donate or Sell**: Donate items that are in good condition to a charity or sell them online.
– **Trash**: Dispose of any items that are broken or no longer needed.
– **Store Items**: If you have items that you don’t need right away, store them in a closet or garage.
HOW TO INSPECT FOR DAMAGE
Before you leave, make sure to inspect the property for any damage. Here are some things to look for:
– **Scratches**: Check for any scratches on walls, floors, or furniture.
– **Stains**: Look for any stains on walls, floors, or furniture.
– **Broken Items**: Check for any broken items, such as light fixtures, faucets, or appliances.
– **Pests**: Inspect for any signs of pests, such as droppings, webs, or holes.
HOW TO COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR LANDLORD
Communication is key when it comes to end-of-lease cleaning. Here are some tips to help you communicate effectively:
– **Be Clear**: Be clear and concise when communicating with your landlord. Use a polite and professional tone.
– **Provide Photos**: Provide photos of any damage or issues. This will help your landlord understand the situation.
– **Follow Up**: Follow up with your landlord to ensure they have received your communication and to confirm the next steps.
HOW TO GET YOUR DEPOSIT BACK
Getting your deposit back is the ultimate goal. Here are some tips to help you achieve this:
– **Be Thorough**: Be thorough in your cleaning. The more you clean, the more likely you are to get your deposit back.
– **Be Honest**: Be honest about any damage or issues. This will help you avoid any disputes.
– **Be Professional**: Be professional in your communication with your landlord. This will help you build a positive relationship.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
– **Prepare**: Before you start cleaning, make sure you have everything you need and a plan in place.
– **Clean Each Room**: Clean each room thoroughly, paying attention to hard-to-reach areas.
– **Deal with Stains**: Use the right products to deal with any stuck-on stains.
– **Organise and Declutter**: Declutter your space to make it easier to clean and more presentable.
– **Inspect for Damage**: Inspect the property for any damage before you leave.
– **Communicate**: Communicate effectively with your landlord to ensure a smooth transition.
NEXT STEPS
– **Start Early**: Start your end-of-lease Move in cleaning Melbourne as early as possible to avoid last-minute stress.
– **Hire Help**: If you’re short on time or have a large property, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
– **Review**: Review your lease agreement to understand what’s expected of you and what’s included in the cleaning.
– **Practice**: Practice your cleaning routine so you’re familiar with the process and can do it efficiently.