Moving can feel like a full-time job. Between packing boxes and scheduling movers, cleaning often becomes the last thing on your list. To make things easier, we’ve created a simple apartment cleaning checklist to help you tackle each space before moving day.
Whether you’re preparing to move out or just giving your space a reset, these steps will help your apartment feel fresh, complete and ready for what’s next.
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General Tips Before You Start
A few simple habits can make cleaning feel easier:
- Work from top to bottom. Start with ceiling fans and shelves, then move down to floors so dust doesn’t resettle.
- Clean one room at a time. Spacing out your cleaning over a few days can help it feel more manageable.
- Set a timer. 30-minute cleaning sessions keep the pace realistic.
- Leave time for last-minute details: taking out trash, wiping counters or one final sweep before you go.
All Rooms
- Restore walls: remove nails, hooks or hangings and fill any holes
- Dust baseboards, shelves, ledges, fans and fixtures
- Clean windows and windowsills
- Wipe doorknobs, light switches and outlet covers
- Vacuum, sweep and mop floors so they’re clean and stain-free
Kitchen
- Wipe down counters and cabinets (inside and out)
- Empty and clean the fridge and freezer
- Clean the sink and garbage disposal
- Wipe down the microwave and tray
- Clean the stovetop and oven
- Sweep and mop floors, including under appliances
Bedroom and Living Area
- Remove all personal furniture and décor
- Clean light fixtures and closet shelves
- Vacuum or mop floors
Patio or Balcony
- Remove décor, mats and plants
- Clean doors inside and out
- Sweep floors and dust railings
A little preparation goes a long way. Use this checklist to keep every detail organized and every space ready for what’s next.
Have questions about your move or life at Paseo? Contact our leasing staff for details on availability, pricing and move-in support.
Nirosha Perera
Nirosha is the general manager at Paseo, with eight years of experience in property management. She spent 24 years living in Dubai before moving to the U.S. When she’s not at work, you’ll find her kicking off the day at the gym, exploring new restaurants, or playing fetch with her cat, Shadow.
October 13, 2025