Moving out of a New York City apartment is stressful enough without worrying about cleaning. But if you want to get your security deposit back — which in NYC can be one or two months' rent — leaving your apartment spotless is essential. This comprehensive move-out cleaning checklist will help you cover every detail.
Why Move-Out Cleaning Matters in NYC
In New York City, landlords can deduct cleaning costs from your security deposit if the apartment isn't returned in the same condition as when you moved in (minus normal wear and tear). With NYC rents being what they are, your deposit could be thousands of dollars. A thorough move-out cleaning is an investment that pays for itself.
Kitchen Checklist
The kitchen is often the most scrutinized room during a move-out inspection. Make sure to: clean inside the oven, including racks and the oven door glass, clean inside the refrigerator and freezer (remove all food, clean shelves and drawers), clean inside the dishwasher and run an empty cycle, wipe down all cabinet fronts and clean inside empty cabinets, clean the stovetop, burners, and drip pans, scrub the sink and polish the faucet, clean the microwave inside and out, wipe down all countertops and backsplash, clean the exhaust hood and filter, and sweep and mop the floor, including corners and under cabinets.
Bathroom Checklist
Bathrooms need to be sanitized and sparkling. Focus on: scrubbing the toilet inside and out (including behind and around the base), cleaning the bathtub or shower (remove soap scum, scrub grout), cleaning the sink and vanity, polishing mirrors and glass, cleaning the medicine cabinet inside and out, descaling faucets and showerhead, cleaning tile grout, wiping down all surfaces and fixtures, and mopping the floor.
Living Room & Bedrooms Checklist
These rooms should look move-in ready. Tasks include: dusting all surfaces, shelves, and windowsills, cleaning all windows (interior), wiping down baseboards and door frames, cleaning light switches and outlet covers, vacuuming or mopping all floors, cleaning closets (shelves, rods, floors), removing any marks from walls, and cleaning light fixtures and ceiling fans.
General Tasks
Don't forget these often-overlooked items: clean all doors and door handles, wipe down all light switches and outlet covers, clean inside all closets and storage spaces, remove any nails or hooks and fill holes if required, clean the entry area and front door, take out all trash and recycling, and do a final walkthrough with photos for documentation.
Hire a Professional Move-Out Cleaning Service
If this checklist feels overwhelming — especially on top of packing and moving — consider hiring CrystalNest Cleaning Service for a professional move-out cleaning. We specialize in move-out cleanings across Queens, Long Island City, Manhattan, and all NYC. Our team knows exactly what landlords look for and will leave your apartment in deposit-worthy condition.
Call (929) 285-2274 or message us on WhatsApp to book your move-out cleaning. We offer same-day service when available!