Moving Guide · Connecticut

Move-In/Out Cleaning Checklist
for Connecticut Homes

June 5, 2026·6 min read·Prestige Home Cleaning
P
Prestige Home Cleaning Team
Professional Cleaning Services · Monroe, CT
⏱ 6 min read

Moving is stressful enough without having to think about cleaning. Whether you're a renter trying to get your security deposit back, a landlord preparing for new tenants, or a homeowner settling into a new place — this checklist covers everything that needs to be done for a proper move-in or move-out clean in Connecticut.

📋 Pro tip: Connecticut landlords can legally deduct cleaning costs from security deposits if the property isn't returned in the same condition. A professional move-out clean costs $200–$500 and is almost always cheaper than a deposit deduction.

Move-Out Cleaning Checklist (Room by Room)

🍳Kitchen
Clean inside oven (racks, door, walls)
Clean stovetop, burners & drip pans
Inside refrigerator & freezer (defrost if needed)
Clean microwave inside & out
Degrease range hood & filter
Wipe all cabinet exteriors & hardware
Clean inside all cabinets & drawers
Scrub sink & faucet (remove deposits)
Wipe countertops & backsplash
Clean dishwasher interior
Sweep & mop floor
Wipe baseboards & outlet covers
🛁Bathrooms (each)
Scrub toilet (inside, rim, tank exterior, base)
Clean shower/tub — tile, grout, door/curtain
Remove soap scum & hard water deposits
Clean sink & faucet
Wipe vanity, mirror & medicine cabinet
Clean inside cabinets & drawers
Scrub floor & grout lines
Clean exhaust fan cover
Wipe baseboards & door frame
Empty & clean trash bin area
🛏Bedrooms (each)
Vacuum carpet or mop hardwood
Clean inside closets (shelves, floor, rod)
Dust ceiling fan blades
Wipe window sills & tracks
Clean light switches & outlet covers
Wipe baseboards & door frames
Spot-clean walls (scuffs, marks)
Clean window interiors
🛋Living & Common Areas
Vacuum carpets & rugs (all edges)
Mop hardwood or tile floors
Dust all surfaces & shelves
Clean behind & under furniture
Wipe baseboards throughout
Clean window sills & tracks
Dust ceiling fans & light fixtures
Spot-clean walls & doors
Wipe light switches & doorknobs
Clean fireplace surround (if applicable)
🚪Entry, Hallways & Stairs
Vacuum or mop all flooring
Wipe stair railings & spindles
Dust light fixtures
Clean front door interior & exterior
Wipe baseboards & door frames
Clean coat closet interior

Move-In vs Move-Out: What's Different?

A move-out clean is done before you leave — focused on restoring the property to the condition it was in when you arrived. Every area must be thoroughly cleaned, even spaces you rarely used.

A move-in clean is done after the previous occupants have left but before you bring in your furniture. Even if the property looks clean, a professional move-in clean sanitizes surfaces you'll actually be living with — especially bathrooms, kitchen appliances, and floors.

💡 Our recommendation for renters: Photograph every room before you move in (and before you move out). It's the best protection against unfair deposit claims.

How Much Does Move-In/Out Cleaning Cost in CT?

In Connecticut, move-in/out cleaning typically costs $200–$500 depending on the size of the property and its condition. A 2-bedroom apartment runs $200–$300. A 4-bedroom house can run $350–$500. Heavily soiled properties or homes with long-neglected appliances may cost more.

See our full pricing breakdown: How Much Does House Cleaning Cost in Connecticut?

Move-In / Move-Out · Connecticut

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