Leaving your Orlando rental? Whether you’re in College Park, Winter Park, or near UCF, your move-out cleaning can make or break whether you get that full deposit back. With Florida’s unique climate and landlord expectations, a basic wipe-down isn’t going to cut it. That’s why we’ve created this full guide—plus a free printable checklist—to help you leave your space spotless and stress-free.
Why a Thorough Move-Out Cleaning Matters
A complete turnover clean does more than just make the space look nice—it can save you hundreds in lost deposits or cleaning fees.
The Importance of Inspection-Ready Cleanliness
Property managers typically use strict inspection checklists. Those missed baseboards or vent dust bunnies? They could cost you. Aim for professionally clean even if you’re doing it yourself.
How Cleaning Affects Deposit Returns
In Florida, landlords can deduct cleaning costs if your rental isn’t returned in “substantially the same condition”—minus normal wear. High turnover areas like Orlando often hold tenants to even higher standards.
Property Manager Expectations in Orlando
Many Orlando rental agencies follow end-of-lease policies with precise criteria. That means: no mold in bathroom grout, no fridge streaks, and definitely no mildew around the AC vents.
Pre-Move-Out Preparation: Supplies, Strategy & Timing
Jumping in without prep can waste time—and leave you scrambling on move-out day. Plan ahead with these essentials:
Recommended Cleaning Supplies Checklist
- Multi-surface cleaner & degreaser
- Glass cleaner
- Toilet bowl and tile scrubber
- Extension duster for ceiling fans
- Magic erasers or melamine sponges
- Vacuum with HEPA filter for allergens/mold
- Microfiber cloths (washable)
- AC vent brush or keyboard brush set
Create a Cleaning Schedule That Works
Start at least 7–10 days before your move:
- 7 days out: clean closets, baseboards, windows
- 4 days out: wipe appliances, cabinets, counters
- 1 day out: floors, AC vents, final disinfecting
What Landlords Look for During Final Walkthroughs
Expect them to check for:
- Residue in ovens and fridges
- Hard water stains in bathrooms
- Mildew in shower corners or ceiling vents
- Discoloration on light switches and walls
Complete Room-by-Room Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
This deep cleaning checklist is tailored for typical Orlando homes and apartments—especially where heat and humidity add grime quickly.
Kitchen Cleaning Tasks
Appliances – Inside & Out (fridge, oven, microwave)
- Remove all food, wipe each shelf with disinfectant
- Scrub oven with degreaser, including drip pans and racks
- Remove microwave plate and clean inside/out
Cabinets, Backsplashes & Counters
- Dust and clean inside cabinets and drawers
- Use degreaser on backsplashes (especially behind stove)
- Sanitize countertops and check for grout residue
Flooring, Grout & Baseboards
- Sweep thoroughly into corners
- Spot-mop tile grout (use baking soda + vinegar)
- Wipe clean the baseboards—Orlando dust sticks!
Bathroom Deep Cleaning
Toilets, Tubs, Showers & Tile
- Scrub with bleach-based cleaner or vinegar paste mix (for eco-safe options)
- Scrape off lime scale using non-scratch scrubbers
- Polish chrome handles and shower doors
Sink Fixtures, Mirrors & Vent Fans
- Use glass cleaner with microfiber for streak-free finishes
- Sanitize faucet handles and toothbrush holders
- Unscrew vent covers if possible—vacuum and wipe
Mildew/Mold Checks in Humid Spots
- Use mildew spray to treat grout in corners
- Check ceilings above showers for condensation stains
Bedrooms & Living Areas
Floors – Sweep, Mop, Steam
- Vacuum carpets and edges; spot treat stains
- Steam mop hard floors or use eco-cleaner
Walls, Doors, and Baseboards
- Use melamine sponge to remove scuffs
- Wipe baseboards and around door trims
Closets & Built-Ins
- Wipe down shelving with damp cloth
- Clean handles and check for spider webs
Other Areas Often Missed
Windows, Blinds & Tracks
- Use blind cleaner or wrap microfiber around tongs
- Vacuum window tracks and spray with disinfectant
Light Fixtures & Ceiling Fans
- Dust blades with duster and clean light covers
AC Vents & Filters – Florida Humidity Watch
- Vacuum vent covers to reduce mold spore spread
- Replace air filter if dirty—especially if pet dander is present
Touchpoints: Switches, Doorknobs, Thermostats
- Use gentle disinfectant on all switches
- Polish doorknobs and clean thermostat face
Final Walkthrough & Last-Minute Touches
Timing matters—many Orlando walk-throughs happen within an hour of you handing off the keys. Don’t rush the final details!
Checklist for Day of Handover
- Do one last trash sweep (check cabinets, fridge)
- Mop final floors after furniture exits
- Check inside ALL drawers and cabinets
Leave Notes for Management If Needed
If something was broken before you moved in or out of your control, leave a visible note and photo documentation.
Taking Photos For Proof of Condition
Use proper lighting and timestamped photos of floors, fixtures, oven interior, and HVAC to defend against false damage claims.
Pro Tips to Ensure Full Deposit Return
Avoiding common move-out mistakes is essential—especially with Orlando rentals highly competitive in 2025.
Common Cleaning Mistakes Renters Make
- Only cleaning visible spots—neglecting steam/mildew buildup
- Skipping light fixtures, blinds, or vents
- Using the wrong cleaner on countertops or grout
DIY vs Hiring Move-Out Cleaning Pros in Orlando
Time Considerations and Scope Limitations
If you’re juggling work or out-of-town move logistics, a professional service like All Great Cleaner can be a lifesaver. Deep cleaning a 2-bedroom apartment can take 6–10 hours solo.
Costs & What’s Worth Hiring Out
Professionals often provide tools for high-up dust, UVC sanitation, or mold-safe cleaners for humid areas—all difficult DIY without gear.
What Property Managers Expect – Interview Quotes
“In Orlando, we require the property look like it’s immediately move-in ready—we inspect AC vents and corners for Florida mold especially,” —Julie H., Orlando property manager
What’s Included vs Not Included in a Standard Move-Out Clean
Not all services cover the same items—make sure your cleaner (or your own checklist) accounts for EVERYTHING your lease specifies.
Services Typically Covered
- Kitchen and bathroom sanitation
- Floors vacuumed and mopped
- High-touch area disinfection
Add-On or Excluded Services (e.g., biohazards, furniture moving)
- Furniture removal, pressure washing
- Biohazard material cleanup
- Pet odor treatments
Safety & Liability Limitations
Most pro cleaners won’t remove mold from inside AC ducts or climb high ladders—these often require specialists.
How to Choose a Trusted Cleaning Service in Orlando
Florida’s rental demand means cleaning scams do show up—do your homework before hiring.
Questions to Ask Before Booking
- Do you follow a move-out specific cleaning checklist?
- Are your cleaners insured and background checked?
- What tools/products do you bring?
Red Flags to Watch For
- Cash-only payments, no insurance
- Refusing to offer pre-job walk-through
- Unrealistically low flat rates
Comparison Checklist – DIY vs Pro
- Cost: Pros cost more but save time
- Quality: Pros have better tools for grout, vent, and allergen control
- Peace of Mind: Deposit assurance makes pros worth it if you’re short on time
Downloadable Printable PDF Checklist (Free Resource)
A renter favorite—download our Orlando-specific checklist and use it as you clean.
How to Use This Checklist Effectively
- Print it out and check off as you go
- Use it to delegate tasks if roommates are helping
- Bring a copy to your final walkthrough for speed
Share With Roommates or Property Managers
Many Orlando leases with roommates divide responsibilities. Share this easily—free of charge.
Conclusion – Leave It Spotless & Get That Deposit
Orlando renters, if you want your full deposit returned, focus on humid-area grime (vents, tile, mold), clean all touchpoints, and don’t leave anything for landlords to flag. Avoid last-minute chaos with a solid checklist plan and treat your move-out clean like a job inspection.
Need a professional deep clean with zero surprises? Book your Orlando move-out cleaning now with All Great Cleaner. Call (321) 315-9177 or schedule online at https://allgreatcleaners.com/service-quote/.
Recommended Reading
- Agenda | The Experience Conference and Exhibition
- Ena Abel Barrientos, MeAnne Manaois and Revil Janice! Keep it …
- [XML] https://snap.berkeley.edu/project/14271038
FAQ
- What should be on a move-out cleaning checklist?
A complete move-out checklist should include deep cleaning tasks for all areas of a rental: kitchen appliances inside/out, bathroom grout and fixtures, floors, baseboards, AC vents, blinds, and touchpoints. - How can I make sure I get my security deposit back when I move out?
Document everything before leaving, clean meticulously using a proven checklist, especially in high-humidity places like Orlando. Include vent cleanings, grout scrubbing, and eliminate odors. Take photos of every cleaned area. - Do I need to hire professional cleaners to get my deposit back?
Not always, but professional cleaners often spot the overlooked issues that cost renters their deposits. They’re especially helpful for tenants with time constraints or larger units. - How clean does my apartment need to be to get the deposit back?
It must be move-in ready, meaning no visible dirt, odors, or stains. Think like a landlord preparing the unit for a new tenant—every detail counts.
