Ultimate Move-In & Move-Out Cleaning Checklist for Michigan

Why Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning Matters
Whether you're leaving a rental property or welcoming buyers to your sold home, thorough cleaning makes a lasting impression—and can save you money. Landlords across Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Troy often deduct cleaning costs from security deposits when units aren't left spotless. Our professional move-in/move-out cleaning services ensure you get every dollar back.
The Complete Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
Kitchen
- ☐ Clean inside and outside of all appliances (refrigerator, oven, microwave, dishwasher)
- ☐ Degrease range hood and exhaust fan
- ☐ Wipe down all cabinet fronts and clean inside cabinets
- ☐ Clean and sanitize countertops, backsplash, and sink
- ☐ Clean light fixtures and switch plates
- ☐ Sweep, mop, and detail floor edges and corners
- ☐ Clean window and window tracks
Bathrooms
- ☐ Scrub and disinfect toilet inside and out
- ☐ Clean shower/tub, including grout and caulk lines
- ☐ Descale faucets and showerheads
- ☐ Clean mirrors and glass surfaces
- ☐ Wipe down all cabinets and clean inside medicine cabinet
- ☐ Clean exhaust fan
- ☐ Mop floors and clean baseboards
Bedrooms and Living Areas
- ☐ Vacuum all carpeted areas, including closets
- ☐ Clean inside all closets, including shelves and rods
- ☐ Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures
- ☐ Clean windows, sills, and tracks
- ☐ Wipe down doors, door frames, and switch plates
- ☐ Clean baseboards throughout
- ☐ Spot clean walls and remove any scuffs
Throughout the Home
- ☐ Clean all interior doors and door handles
- ☐ Dust and wipe all blinds or clean window treatments
- ☐ Clean garage (sweep, remove oil stains if applicable)
- ☐ Clean laundry area, including inside washer and dryer vents
- ☐ Replace HVAC filter
- ☐ Clean interior of entry door and storm door
Move-In Cleaning: Starting Fresh
Even if the previous occupants cleaned, a professional move-in cleaning ensures your new home is truly ready. For families in Southfield, Royal Oak, and Farmington Hills, move-in cleaning provides peace of mind before unpacking.
Move-In Priorities
- Sanitize kitchen and bathrooms: These high-use areas deserve thorough disinfection
- Deep clean carpets: Professional carpet cleaning removes allergens and odors left by previous occupants
- Clean inside cabinets and closets: Wipe down all storage areas before filling them
- Wash windows: Let natural light shine through clean windows
Post-Construction and Renovation Cleaning
New construction or renovations leave dust, debris, and residue throughout the home. Our post-construction cleaning services include:
- Fine dust removal from all surfaces
- Window and glass cleaning (removing stickers and film)
- Cabinet interior cleaning
- Floor cleaning appropriate to material type
- Fixture and appliance cleaning
- Detail cleaning of trim, baseboards, and door frames
Michigan Moving Season Tips
Metro Detroit's busiest moving months are May through September. To ensure availability for professional cleaning services in Livonia, Warren, Sterling Heights, and surrounding areas:
- Book cleaning services at least 1-2 weeks in advance during peak season
- Schedule cleaning for the day after your move-out or before furniture delivery
- Coordinate with your landlord's inspection timeline
- Request a walk-through checklist from your property manager
Why Choose Professional Move Cleaning
DIY move cleaning is exhausting—especially after packing and moving all your belongings. Professional cleaners bring:
- Experience: We know exactly what landlords and property managers expect
- Equipment: Commercial-grade tools and products achieve better results
- Efficiency: Our teams complete jobs faster than DIY efforts
- Guarantee: We stand behind our work with satisfaction guarantees
Additional Move-Related Services
Beyond basic move cleaning, consider these services for a complete transition:
- Carpet cleaning: Essential for removing allergens and refreshing fibers
- Tile and grout cleaning: Restore bathroom and kitchen floors
- Window cleaning: Crystal-clear windows transform any space
- Hardwood floor care: Protect and refresh wood floors
Book Your Move Cleaning Today
Dechord Building Services makes moving easier with comprehensive move-in and move-out cleaning throughout Metro Detroit. Our thorough process satisfies even the most demanding landlords and gives you confidence in your new home.
Moving soon? Schedule your move cleaning or call (313) 591-0727 to reserve your date.
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