Ways to Clean and Organise Your Home Before Moving Day

Start Decluttering Early and Strategically 🎒

Before you even reach for a mop, it’s important to declutter. There’s no point cleaning around things you don’t plan to keep.

• Begin with storage areas like wardrobes, cupboards, and under the bed.

• Donate or recycle what you no longer use, especially bulky items.

• Group belongings into ‘keep’, ‘donate’, and ‘discard’ zones for clarity.

Clearing clutter helps you pack more efficiently and ensures cleaning is thorough, especially in areas that are usually hidden.

Focus on High-Priority Areas Agents Inspect 🧽

There are areas landlords and letting agents always check — and often deduct for.

• Kitchen appliances, like ovens and hobs, must be grease-free.

• Bathrooms should be mould-free with limescale removed from taps and tiles.

• Carpets should be vacuumed thoroughly, especially in corners and around furniture.

• Don’t forget skirting boards, switches, door handles, and light fittings.

For renters in London, End of Tenancy Cleaning London provides a great checklist covering these areas in detail.

Choose Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products 🌱

Using the right products can leave your space sparkling — without toxic residues or strong odours.

• White vinegar is perfect for removing limescale and brightening glass.

• Bicarbonate of soda works wonders on stubborn stains and odours.

• Lemon juice is a natural disinfectant and leaves a clean, citrus scent.

There’s a great guide from Friends of the Earth on how to clean effectively using natural ingredients, especially if you’re concerned about the environment.

Don’t Skip Hard-to-Reach or Forgotten Areas 🧴

During move-out cleaning, it’s often the forgotten spots that get flagged by agents.

• Clean behind and under furniture, especially if anything will be left behind.

• Dust vents, extractors, curtain rails, and the tops of cupboards.

• Wipe down inside drawers, cabinets, and wardrobes.

If you’re short on time, our one-off cleaning service in Balham can ensure every hidden corner is tackled professionally.

Get the Carpets Looking Their Best 🧼

Carpets can hold on to smells, stains, and dust — all of which can count against your deposit.

• Vacuum slowly and thoroughly, especially around skirting and under furniture.

• Treat marks with a carpet-safe stain remover or baking soda paste.

• Open windows during and after cleaning to let carpets dry and air out.

For a professional finish, consider contacting our carpet cleaning experts for a deep clean, ideal before a property handover.

Consider Hiring a Professional End-of-Tenancy Team 🧹

Sometimes it’s safer — and easier — to bring in the professionals, especially when a deposit is at stake.

• A team can complete a deep clean faster and more thoroughly.

• Professionals know what landlords look for and follow checklists accordingly.

• You save time, energy, and eliminate last-minute cleaning panic.

We often collaborate with trusted partners like End of Tenancy Cleaning London to offer reliable move-out support with competitive rates.

Final Touches Before You Hand Over the Keys 🗝️

Once the cleaning is complete and the boxes are packed, take a few final steps to leave a great impression.

• Take dated photos of the clean space before locking up.

• Check with the landlord or agent for any additional cleaning expectations.

• Leave windows ajar briefly to air out the space if weather allows.

And if you’re feeling overwhelmed or on a tight deadline, our Balham-based cleaners are just a phone call away to help ease the process.

Clean Exit, Fresh Start 🌟

Leaving your home in excellent condition isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about respect, responsibility, and ensuring a full return of your deposit. Whether you clean it yourself using eco-friendly methods or hire experts for the job, a little effort goes a long way. So pack smart, clean wisely, and step into your next chapter with peace of mind and a spotless record.