Relocating to a new country is exciting, but let’s be real – move-out cleaning isn’t exactly the highlight of international relocation. It’s that one last task standing between you and the fresh start abroad. But don’t worry! With a bit of planning and some handy tips, you can tackle it like a pro.
How to Tackle House Move-Out Cleaning?
Preparing a home for departure involves a strategic approach to ensure it’s left in pristine condition. Start by making a detailed plan, including a checklist and gathering necessary supplies. Tackle each room methodically, focusing on high-traffic areas and those often overlooked.
Don’t forget to address windows, light fixtures, and baseboards. If time is tight, consider professional help for both the deep cleaning and the heavy lifting. Finally, do a thorough final inspection and document the state of the property to cover all bases.
Start Move-out Cleaning With a Plan
Moving internationally adds a whole new layer of complexity to an already hectic process. With all the paperwork, logistics, and planning that comes with moving overseas, cleaning the home might seem like the last thing you want to tackle.
Before you dive into the scrubbing frenzy, it’s important to have a game plan. Trying to clean the entire place in one go can feel like climbing a mountain, especially with everything else going on before the big relocation across the world.
Keep in mind that according to Tidy Choice, cleaning a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom property typically takes about 3.5 hours. But with a little organization and the right approach, you can make this task a whole lot easier. Let’s break it down so you can tackle each step without feeling overwhelmed.
Create a Cleaning Checklist
The best way to stay on top of things is by creating a checklist. Go room by room — think kitchen, every bathroom in the house, bedrooms, and living areas — and jot down all the tasks that need to be done. Whether it’s scrubbing the stove, wiping down the shower tiles, or dusting those hard-to-reach corners, a detailed list will help ensure nothing gets missed.
Gather Supplies
Just like you’ll need a lot of packing materials to handle the packing process, you’ll need to go shopping for cleaning products. In fact, use them all up, as they fall under the category of items movers aren’t allowed to move, anyway. So, it’s time to round up all the cleaning supplies you’ll need. Stock your arsenal with the essentials to make the whole job smoother and more efficient. Here’s a handy list to get you started:
- All-purpose cleaner for tackling various surfaces,
- Glass cleaner for streak-free windows and mirrors,
- Sponges for scrubbing tough spots,
- Microfiber cloths for dusting and wiping,
- Vacuum cleaner for carpets and floors,
- Mop and bucket for hard floors,
- Rubber gloves to keep your hands clean and protected,
- Scrub brushes for stubborn stains,
- Trash bags for disposing of any garbage and debris.
Having everything ready to go will save you time and keep you from running around mid-clean to find that missing scrub brush.
Schedule Each Step
Finally, just like you’ll need a packing schedule, map one out for sprucing up the home, too. Instead of trying to do everything at once, break it down into smaller chunks. Maybe handle the kitchen and bathrooms one day and tackle the bedrooms and living spaces the next. Spreading out the work will make the whole process feel way more manageable and way less stressful. Plus, it’ll leave you some breathing room in case anything unexpected comes up.
Deep Clean vs. Regular – What’s Best for International Relocation?
The main difference between deep and regular cleaning is that they serve different purposes, especially when you’re moving out. Regular tidying is the routine maintenance to keep your home tidy, like dusting, vacuuming, and wiping down surfaces. It focuses on visible areas and daily messes.
On the other hand, deep sprucing up goes much further, tackling the hidden dirt and grime that builds up over time. This includes scrubbing inside ovens, washing baseboards, dusting behind appliances, and thoroughly disinfecting bathrooms. Deep cleaning is more intensive and time-consuming but is essential when you want to leave the home in pristine condition. For an international relocation, a deep clean is the better choice.
How Long Does It Take?
To estimate how much time you’ll need to clean the place before relocating, start with a base time for a smaller property and add extra time for each additional room. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan.
| Property Size | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom | 2 hours |
| 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom | 2.5 hours |
| 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom | 3 hours |
| 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom | 3.5 hours |
Room-by-Room Guide
Sprucing up the space home room by room helps keep the process organized and manageable. By focusing on one area at a time, you can ensure that each space gets the attention it needs. Here’s a simple guide to help you tackle each room effectively.
Kitchen Area
Once you take care of the plates and other items in the dining area, it’s time to put on some rubber gloves and get to work. Start by cleaning appliances like the stove, oven, and fridge. Wipe down countertops and cabinets, making sure to remove any sticky spots or crumbs. For the floors, sweep and mop thoroughly to remove spills and stains. Don’t forget to clean inside the microwave and any other small appliances you may have.
Bathrooms and Toilets
Focus on tackling grime and soap scum in the shower and bathtub. Use a strong cleaner to scrub tiles and grout, and don’t forget to clean the sink and toilet. Disinfect all surfaces to ensure a hygienic finish, and use a glass cleaner for mirrors to achieve a streak-free shine.
Bedrooms and Living Areas
Dust all surfaces, including furniture and shelves. Vacuum carpets and rugs, and spot-clean any stains or marks on the walls. For a polished look, fluff cushions and straighten up any clutter to make the space feel fresh and tidy.
Floors and Carpets
Begin by sweeping or vacuuming floors to pick up loose dirt and debris. Mop hard floors with a suitable cleaner, paying attention to any sticky or stained areas. For carpets, consider deep-cleaning or steam-cleaning if they’re particularly dirty or stained. This will help lift dirt and refresh the fibers.
Don’t Forget the Details
When cleaning a home, it’s easy to overlook the smaller details, but these finishing touches can make a big difference. Paying attention to these areas will help you leave the place spotless and ready for its next occupants.
Tackle the Final Touches
To achieve a streak-free finish on glass surfaces, use a good quality glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Wipe in a circular motion to remove smudges and fingerprints, and make sure to get into the corners for a completely clear view.
Dust can accumulate quickly on light fixtures and ceiling fans, so take a moment to wipe them down. Use a damp cloth or a duster with an extendable handle to remove any built-up dust and grime, which will brighten the room and improve air quality.
Baseboards and molding are often among the things you forget to do during regular cleaning, but they can collect a surprising amount of dust and dirt. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe them down, paying extra attention to the edges and corners where dust tends to settle.
Consider Hiring Professionals
Sometimes, hiring professional cleaners is the best option, especially if you’re short on time or dealing with a particularly large or messy home. If the schedule is packed with the logistics of moving abroad, bringing in professionals can relieve a lot of stress and ensure your home is cleaned to a high standard.
They can handle everything from deep-cleaning the kitchen and bathrooms to making sure every nook and cranny is spotless. When choosing a move-out house cleaning service, look for a company with good reviews, transparent pricing, and experience.
It’s Easier When Movers Handle the Rest
It’s also worth considering hiring an international moving company like Shepherd International Movers to handle the heavy lifting, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the move (like cleaning). A reliable international moving company offers comprehensive international relocation services and can ensure that your household items are securely packed and safely transported to a new destination, making the entire process smoother and less stressful.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Process
As you prepare to move out, making sure your home is spotless can be an essential task. To help streamline the efforts and ensure everything is in top shape, here are some additional tips to make the tidying-up process as efficient and effective as possible:
- Begin tidying up a few days before the move-out day to avoid any unnecessary last-minute stress. Breaking tasks into smaller chunks makes the process more manageable.
- Before you start, go through all the belongings and get rid of anything you no longer need. This will reduce the amount of scrubbing and dusting required and make everything easier.
- Invest in good-quality cleaning supplies. A high-powered vacuum, sturdy mop, and effective cleaners will save you time and ensure a thorough job.
- Pay extra attention to areas that see the most use, like the kitchen and bathrooms. These spaces often require the most effort to clean.
- If you’re short on time, ask friends or family to help (if you don’t want to hire professional cleaners to take care of the deep cleaning).
- Additional house cleaning after moving involves scrubbing the floors after everything else. It’s to avoid re-cleaning any dirt or dust that might fall during the process.
- Open windows and doors while you’re tidying up to let in fresh air and help with drying surfaces, especially after mopping or using strong cleaning agents.
- If you’re renting, review the lease for any specific requirements to ensure you meet all the conditions to get the security deposit back.
Final Walkthrough Is Crucial
Before you close the door for the last time, take a moment to do a final walkthrough. Check all the work room by room, ensuring that nothing has been overlooked and that each space is spotless. Pay attention to those easy-to-miss areas like behind doors, inside closets, and along baseboards.
It’s also a good idea to document the whole process, especially if you’re renting. Take photos or videos of the cleaned spaces to have proof of the property’s condition when you leave. This can be invaluable if there’s any dispute over the security deposit or the state of the home after you move out.
Tackle the Final Step Before the Big Relocation and Leave Stress-Free
Proper house cleaning after moving out is crucial, as a thorough job ensures a smooth transition and helps avoid any last-minute issues. Taking the time to address every detail not only helps in securing the security deposit but also leaves a positive impression on future occupants. Approach this final task with a positive mindset, knowing it’s the last step before the exciting new adventure.
For more tips on relocating abroad or to get expert assistance with an international relocation, reach out to Shepherd International Movers. We’re here to help make the transition as seamless as possible.
