Move-Out Cleaning Checklist: Get Your Full Deposit Back

Security deposits in the DeSoto County and Memphis rental market commonly run $1,000 or more. The most common reason landlords keep part of it? Cleaning. This is the room-by-room checklist property managers actually inspect against, from a company that does move-out cleans every week.

Kitchen (Where Most Deposits Die)

Landlords check inside the oven first, almost every time. Ensure you tackle:

• Inside the oven, including racks and the drawer underneath.
• Inside the refrigerator and freezer, defrosted and wiped.
• Inside every cabinet and drawer.
• Range hood filter degreased.
• Backsplash and walls behind the stove.
• Sink descaled and faucet polished.
• Floors mopped including under appliances if they slide out.

Bathrooms

• Toilet inside, outside, behind, and around the base.
• Tub and shower with soap scum and mildew fully removed, including grout lines.
• Mirror, vanity, and inside all drawers.
• Exhaust fan cover dusted.
• Floors mopped, corners included.

Bedrooms and Living Areas

• Baseboards wiped in every room, this is a classic inspection item.
• Ceiling fans and light fixtures dusted.
• Windowsills, tracks, and blinds cleaned.
• Closet shelves wiped.
• Doors, door frames, and light switches wiped for hand marks.
• Scuff marks removed from walls where possible.
• Carpets vacuumed (check your lease, many require professional carpet cleaning with a receipt).

The Items Everyone Forgets

Inside the dishwasher and its filter. Washer and dryer, inside and behind if they stay. Water heater closet. Garage or storage areas, swept. Porch and entryway, cobwebs down. Air vent covers dusted. Fresh air filter installed, some landlords check the date.

DIY vs Hiring a Pro

A full move-out clean on a 3-bedroom home takes 8–12 hours of hard work done right. Professional move-out cleaning in the Holly Springs and DeSoto County area typically costs $250–$450, and it comes with something DIY can't offer: our Clarity Clean Summary™, a documented record of the work done, which is useful evidence if a landlord disputes the condition.

If your deposit is $1,000+, paying $300 to protect it is simple math. And if you're moving on a deadline, it's the difference between packing and scrubbing an oven at midnight.

FAQs

How much does move-out cleaning cost near Memphis?
Typically $250–$450 for a full home depending on size and condition.

Do cleaning companies guarantee the deposit back?
No honest company guarantees a deposit, since damage and unpaid rent also count. But a documented professional clean removes cleaning from the dispute entirely.

How far in advance should I book?
Book 1–2 weeks ahead. End-of-month dates fill fast.