The move is planned, the boxes are packed—but the final cleaning can quickly become a stumbling block, especially in a furnished apartment.

If the condition at handover isn’t up to par, you risk conflicts or even having your deposit withheld.

With good planning, structure, and our 7 pro tips, your move-out will be clean, efficient, and worry-free.

1. Start Early

• Build in a buffer: Begin 1–2 days before the handover date, depending on the size of the apartment.
• Clarify requirements: Find out in advance what the handover protocol demands (e.g., windows, refrigerator, furniture, etc.).

2. Create a Room-by-Room Checklist‍

Define clear tasks for each space:

• Kitchen: Stove, oven, refrigerator, countertops
• Bathroom: Shower, toilet, tiles, mirrors
• Living & Sleeping Areas: Floors, furniture surfaces, windows
• Extras: Doors, light switches, radiators, power strips

3. Defrost Fridge & Freezer Thoroughly

• 24–48 hours beforehand: Place towels to catch melting water.
• Afterward: Leave doors ajar, wipe everything dry, and let it air out briefly.

4. Tackle Stubborn Grime on the Stove & Co.

• Soak: Apply a commercial stove cleaner or a DIY mix of baking soda and vinegar.
• Scrub lightly: Use a sponge and microfiber cloth to lift away residue.

5. Care for Furniture & Surfaces

• Wipe down: Tables, chairs, shelves, and beds in furnished apartments.
• Attention to detail: Remove water rings, fingerprints, and stains.

6. Eliminate Dust—even in Hidden Corners

• Vacuum and wipe: Lamps, baseboards, window frames, and the tops of cupboards.
• Pro tip: Use a damp microfiber cloth instead of a dry duster to really capture the dust.

7. Final Inspection with a Fresh Perspective

• Channel the landlord’s view: Walk through each room and inspect cleanliness from an objective standpoint.
• Two pairs of eyes are better than one: If possible, have someone else check as well.

Conclusion
With these 7 tips, final cleaning becomes a breeze.

You’ll minimize stress, avoid disputes, and secure your full deposit.

So crank up your favorite tunes, gather your cleaning supplies, and move out smoothly—one systematic step at a time!