If you are getting ready to move out of your apartment, then you are probably hoping that you will get your security deposit back after you move out. Naturally, you’re going to need to put some time and effort into cleaning up your apartment so that you can leave the place in good condition and hopefully get your security deposit back. These are a few tips that can help you with your move-out clean.

Have the Carpets Professionally Cleaned

Even though you might be planning to do most of the move-out cleaning yourself, one job that you might want to leave up to the professionals is to have the carpet professionally cleaned. This is especially worth it if your carpet is stained. A professional can generally get rid of stains, odors, and dirt from the carpet better than you could do on your own at home.

Clean the Kitchen Appliances

Even if the rest of the apartment is in good, clean shape, a lot of people forget to clean the kitchen appliances. This is one way that you can lose your security deposit, so make sure that you take the time to clean them carefully.

Remove all of the shelves from the refrigerator and wash and dry them. Then, while the refrigerator is empty, wipe out the inside of it. After the shelves are dry, you can put them back in the refrigerator.

It’s also important to clean your stove and oven. Carefully scrub the top of the stove, making sure that you don’t use any cleaning products that will damage the surface. This is especially important if the apartment has a flat-top stove. Use the self-cleaning cycle or a bottle of oven cleaner to clean out the inside of the oven. There could be an odor during the oven cleaning process, so you’ll want to do it early enough in your cleaning process that you can allow the apartment to air out a little bit before your final inspection.

Clean the Windows and Windowsills

Take the time to carefully clean all of the windows and windowsills in the apartment. Additionally, if the apartment came with blinds, shades or drapes, make sure that you carefully clean them, too.

Spend Some Time on the Light Fixtures

It’s easy to forget to clean the light fixtures in the apartment. Caked-on dirt and grime can be cleaned off of ceiling fan blades with a pillowcase so that you don’t make a mess in the process. You can then use a mixture of vinegar and water to clean off the fan blades and the other light fixtures throughout the apartment, being careful not to spray any cleaner or water on any of the electrical components.

Cleaning your apartment during your move is important if you want to maintain a good reference from your landlord and if you want to get your security deposit back. Luckily, following the simple steps above can help you get your apartment nice and clean when you move out.