Move-Out Cleaning Checklist for Austin Renters: Get Your Full Deposit Back
Moving out of an Austin rental? The condition you leave the unit in directly affects whether you get your security deposit back. Texas law allows landlords to deduct for cleaning and damage beyond normal wear, so a thorough move-out clean is one of the highest-ROI things you can do before handing over the keys.
Here's a room-by-room move-out cleaning checklist Austin renters can follow — the same one our team uses at Vicky's House Cleaning.
Before You Start
- Remove everything. A cleaner unit looks better and lets you reach every surface.
- Take before photos so you have proof of the unit's condition.
- Gather supplies: all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, degreaser, grout brush, microfiber cloths, mop, vacuum, and trash bags.
Kitchen Checklist
- [ ] Empty and wipe inside all cabinets and drawers
- [ ] Clean inside the refrigerator (remove shelves if possible)
- [ ] Clean inside the oven (use a degreaser or self-clean cycle)
- [ ] Wipe down the stovetop, microwave inside and out, and range hood
- [ ] Degrease the backsplash and countertops
- [ ] Clean the sink and faucet
- [ ] Sweep and mop the floor — don't forget under the appliances if you can move them
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Bathroom Checklist
- [ ] Scrub grout and tile — landlords inspect this closely
- [ ] Clean the tub, shower, and shower door tracks
- [ ] Descale the toilet inside and out, including the base
- [ ] Wipe the sink, vanity, and mirror
- [ ] Clean inside cabinets and drawers
- [ ] Replace any missing or burnt-out lightbulbs
Living Areas & Bedrooms
- [ ] Dust baseboards, window sills, and door frames
- [ ] Wipe light switches and door handles
- [ ] Vacuum and mop all floors, including corners and closets
- [ ] Remove nails, screws, and wall anchors; patch small holes with spackle
- [ ] Clean interior windows and blinds
Final Pass
- [ ] Empty all trash and remove bins to the curb
- [ ] Check for odors — run the disposal with lemon, leave baking soda in the fridge
- [ ] Take after photos matching your before shots
- [ ] Do a final walkthrough with the checklist in hand
Don't Want to Do It Yourself?
Move-out cleaning is exhausting on top of packing. Our insured team handles the entire checklist for you — baseboards, appliances, cabinets, grout, and every corner landlords inspect. We serve renters across Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Manor, and surrounding areas.
Get your move-out cleaning quote in 60 seconds, or call (512) 426-6683. Most renters find that a professional move-out clean pays for itself in the deposit it saves.
Related: Move-In Cleaning in Austin — start fresh in your new place.
Vicky
Founder & Lead Cleaner · Vicky's House Cleaning
Vicky has personally cleaned and overseen thousands of homes across Austin since 2008. She built her business on a simple promise: treat every home like her own, use only safe eco-friendly products, and never leave until the client is 100% satisfied. She personally guarantees every clean.
Ready for a Spotless Home?
Let Vicky's House Cleaning handle the cleaning so you can enjoy your free time. Get an instant quote online.
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