The Complete Move-Out Cleaning Checklist for Albuquerque Renters
Moving Out in Albuquerque? Here’s How to Leave Your Place Spotless
Moving is stressful enough without worrying about whether your landlord will keep your deposit. Between packing boxes, scheduling movers, and forwarding mail, cleaning is usually the last thing renters want to do—but it’s also one of the most important.
If you’re getting ready to move out of your Albuquerque apartment or rental home, this complete move-out cleaning checklist will help you leave every room looking as good as the day you moved in.
1. Start with the Big Stuff First
Before diving into details, remove all personal belongings and trash. Empty out closets, storage spaces, and cabinets completely. Having a blank space lets you clean faster and helps you spot areas that need extra attention—like scuffs on walls or dust behind appliances.
Tip: Work room by room instead of bouncing around. It’s faster and less overwhelming.
2. Living Areas and Bedrooms
These are often the first rooms a landlord will inspect. Albuquerque’s dry climate means dust builds up quickly, so focus on all surfaces that collect it.
Checklist:
Dust and wipe baseboards, window sills, and ceiling fans.
Clean light fixtures and vents.
Wipe down doors, walls, and switch plates.
Vacuum carpets and mop hard floors.
Wash interior windows and sliding glass doors.
For scuffs on walls, use a magic eraser or gentle cleaner. If damage is more than surface level, patch and touch up with paint.
3. Kitchen Deep Clean
The kitchen is where most renters lose deposit money—grease, crumbs, and stains are easy to miss.
Checklist:
Clean the inside and outside of all appliances (oven, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher).
Wipe cabinets, drawers, and shelves inside and out.
Degrease the stovetop, hood, and backsplash.
Scrub countertops and sink with disinfectant.
Sweep and mop floors, paying attention to corners.
If your oven has baked-on grime, use a mix of baking soda and vinegar overnight before wiping clean.
4. Bathrooms That Shine
A sparkling bathroom tells your landlord you took care of the place.
Checklist:
Scrub shower walls, grout, and tub.
Clean toilets, sinks, mirrors, and counters.
Remove soap scum and water spots from glass doors and fixtures.
Disinfect light switches and doorknobs.
Sweep and mop floors.
Pro Tip: Albuquerque’s hard water can leave mineral buildup—white vinegar works wonders for that.
5. Don’t Forget Entryways, Closets, and Windows
These smaller areas can make a big difference during inspection.
Checklist:
Clean windows and sills thoroughly.
Dust and wipe closet shelves, rods, and doors.
Sweep patios, balconies, and entryways.
Check outdoor lights and remove cobwebs.
If your rental includes a garage or shed, sweep and remove debris there, too.
6. The Final Walkthrough
Once you’ve finished every room, do one last walkthrough as if you were the landlord. Check behind doors, under sinks, and inside appliances. A flashlight can help spot missed dust or smudges.
If possible, take photos after cleaning. It’s great documentation if any deposit disputes arise later.
7. When to Hire a Professional Move-Out Cleaning Service
Sometimes, time or energy just don’t allow for deep cleaning. That’s where a professional move-out cleaning service in Albuquerque can help. A trained cleaning team can:
Handle every detail on the checklist (and more).
Save hours of work during your move.
Help ensure you meet your lease’s cleaning requirements.
For renters in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and Corrales, Clean Canvas Company offers detailed move-out cleanings designed to help you walk away with your full deposit—and your landlord’s thanks.
Final Thoughts
Moving is a fresh start. By taking a little extra time (or bringing in the pros), you can leave your space spotless and your rental record shining. Whether you’re heading across town or out of state, this move-out cleaning checklist helps you move forward without a mess behind.
