Move-Out Cleaning Checklist for Calgary Tenants & Homeowners

End-of-lease cleaning (or move-out cleaning) is more than just a good courtesy — it’s often a lease requirement. Landlords and property managers expect a spotless handover, and any overlooked mess can cost you your deposit money. 

Moving out of your Calgary home or rental can be exciting — but the cleaning? Not so much. A thorough move-out clean is essential to secure your full deposit and welcome the next occupants. Whether you’re tackling the job yourself or hiring professionals, this checklist covers every corner of your home. These tips will help ensure no detail is missed, from scrubbing ovens to vacuuming baseboards. And if you decide to hire a cleaning company in Calgary, Lumina Life offers comprehensive services to simplify your move.

Why a Thorough Move-Out Clean Matters

End-of-lease cleaning (or move-out cleaning) is more than just a good courtesy — it’s often a lease requirement. Landlords and property managers expect a spotless handover, and any overlooked mess can cost you your security deposit. 

Leave it spotless: focus on high-traffic areas and grime hotspots to impress your landlord and new tenants. A complete clean also ensures your old home is ready for the next occupants, letting you start fresh in your new space.

Key Tips:

  • Plan Ahead: Make a checklist (like this one) and start cleaning well before move-out day.
  • Declutter First: Remove personal items and trash so you can clean empty spaces.
  • Gather Supplies: Stock up on cleaning products, microfiber cloths, vacuum bags, etc.
  • Top-to-Bottom Cleaning: Always clean from higher surfaces down to floors to avoid re-soiling.
  • Patch and Repair: Fill nail holes and fix minor damage before cleaning so surfaces are smooth and dry.

Room-by-Room Move-Out Cleaning Checklist

Kitchen

Our move-out cleaning checklist starts in the kitchen, often the biggest cleaning challenge. Deep-clean all appliances (inside and out), cabinets, and countertops. Lumina Life’s Move-In/Out Cleaning service in Calgary addresses all of these areas.

  • Fridge & Freezer: Empty and unplug. Defrost if needed, then wash shelves, drawers, and walls. Wipe down exterior handles.
  • Oven & Microwave: Scrape burnt food and spills. Use a degreaser inside the oven and wipe every surface of the microwave.
  • Countertops & Sink: Sanitize sinks and faucets. Remove stains from countertops and backsplashes.
  • Cabinets & Drawers: Wipe inside and out. Clean cabinet fronts and hardware.
  • Dishwasher & Appliances: Run the dishwasher empty. Clean stovetops, hoods, and small appliances.
  • Floors & Baseboards: Vacuum and mop. Focus on corners and under appliances.
  • Windows & Fixtures: Clean the inside of windows, light fixtures, and switches.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms require sanitizing. Lumina Life’s team handles fixtures, grout, and more.

  • Toilet: Disinfect bowl, seat, lid, base, and handle.
  • Shower & Tub: Remove soap scum and mold. Scrub tile, polish glass doors.
  • Sink & Vanity: Clean basins, faucets, drawers, and polish fixtures.
  • Surfaces & Storage: Wipe counters, cabinets, and mirrors.
  • Floors & Baseboards: Mop with disinfectant. Scrub tile grout.
  • Finishing Touches: Remove items. Wipe fans and vents.

Bedrooms & Living Areas

  • Declutter & Vacuum: Clear items and deep-vacuum carpets. Mop hardwood.
  • Dust Surfaces: Wipe shelves, sills, vents, and furniture.
  • Walls & Baseboards: Spot-clean, remove scuffs, touch-up paint.
  • Windows & Doors: Wash windows, clean handles and switches.
  • Closets & Cabinets: Empty and clean inside.
  • Final Sweep: Clean lamps, bulbs, corners.

Hallways, Entryways & More

  • Floors: Sweep/vacuum and mop stairs and halls.
  • Walls & Switches: Wipe down all touch points.
  • Garage & Outdoor Spaces: Sweep and tidy.
  • Patios/Decks: Clean floors and railings.
  • Utilities: Check lights and detectors.

Why Hire Professional Cleaners?

Taking on a move-out clean alone is daunting. That’s why many Calgarians turn to Lumina Life's professional cleaning team. Our services are detailed and efficient — every item on this list is covered, and more.

We also offer:

  • Deep Cleaning: For homes needing extra care.
  • Airbnb Turnover Cleaning: Keep guests happy and ratings high.
  • Post-Construction Cleaning: Make new spaces shine.

Save time and guarantee results. Our team knows what landlords look for and works quickly to meet those standards. We also offer flexible cleaning packages to suit every budget and home size, making it easier to find the right solution for your move.

Ready for a Stress-Free Move?

Don’t let cleaning delay your move. Lumina Life is Calgary’s go-to for thorough move-out cleaning services.

  • Get a Free Quote: Request a customized estimate today.
  • Book Online: Choose the date, and we’ll handle the rest.
  • Peace of Mind: Your move, made easy — with professional help.

Let us help you leave your home spotless and your worries behind.

How to Deep Clean Your Fridge and Freezer: Easy Steps for Fresh Food Storage

Your refrigerator and freezer keep food fresh, reduce waste, and save you money — but they’re often the most neglected appliances in the home. A dirty fridge not only causes bad odors but also impacts food quality and safety. In this quick guide, we share step-by-step cleaning tips, organization hacks, and pro tricks to keep your fridge and freezer fresh.

Read more

Seasonal Window Maintenance in Calgary: Cleaning, Sealing & Weather Protection Tips

Windows are essential to your home’s comfort, efficiency, and curb appeal. But in Calgary, where each season brings its own weather challenges — from snow and moisture in winter to dust, wind, and UV rays in spring and summer — your windows take a beating year-round. Regular cleaning, sealing, and maintenance protect your windows from damage, improve energy efficiency, and extend their lifespan. At Lumina Life, our Calgary-based experts are here to help. Use this seasonal guide to care for your windows and keep them in top shape throughout the year.

Read more

Step-by-Step Natural Kitchen Sink Cleaning Guide

Your kitchen sink is one of the hardest-working spots in your home. But while you’re busy keeping counters and dishes clean, grease, food particles, and bacteria quietly build up in the sink itself. In this guide, we’ll show you how to deep clean your kitchen sink naturally—without harsh chemicals—and how LuminaLife can help you maintain a fresher, healthier kitchen.

Read more
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.