Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning Checklist for Edmonton Renters & Landlords (Back-to-School Edition)
At Sparkle & Sheen Organize And Cleaning Services Ltd., we understand that moving in Edmonton can be a hectic time especially around back-to-school season. It doesn’t matter whether you’re handing back keys or greeting new tenants, a good spring clean can help protect deposits, make good first impressions and mean moving in is so much easier.
The importance of a good move clean
A deep reset banishes dust and allergens, clears the air of stale scents and allows photos (and showings) to shine. It will also keep small, easy-to-forget places from turning into deductions on your move-out statement.
48-72 hours before move-out: quick prep
- Pin back in pieces, working room by room until there’s no surface that can’t be reached.
- Gather supplies: microfiber cloths, a good vacuum, mop/bucket, a mild all-purpose cleaner, baking soda, white vinegar, glass cleaner, scrub brushes, trash/recycle bags.
- Pre-treat the “big jobs” (oven racks, shower/tub, fridge shelves) so the products can work while you accomplish other things.
Room-by-room checklist
Kitchen
- Appliances: Remove and wash fridge/freezer bins and gaskets Clean out oven/stovetop Degrease microwave (steam-clean by heating a bowl of water + lemon)
- Cabinets & drawers: Use a hand vac or the vacuum’s crevice tool to suck out crumbs; wipe interiors, exteriors, hardware; don’t neglect the area under the sink.
- Sinks & counters: Scrub, then disinfect high-touch handles; buff stainless.
- Floors/baseboards: Vacuum edges; mop last.
Commonly overlooked: behind/under appliances, switch plates, the top of the fridge estate.
Bathrooms
- Tub/shower: Lift soap scum and mineral buildup; detail grout and the caulk line.
- Toilet: Clean bowl, hinges, base, and behind the tank.
- Vanity/mirror: Wipe inside cabinets and drawer rails; polish fixtures.
- Vent fan cover: Pop off and dust.
Often missed: shower curtain/liner (wash or replace) and the underside of the seat.
Living areas & bedrooms
- Dust top-down: ceiling corners, light fixtures, fan blades, blinds, window sills and tracks, then baseboards.
- Wipe doors, frames, and knobs; spot-clean walls; clean outlet and light switch plates.
- Vacuum carpets slowly (edges too) and mop hard floors.
- Closets: wipe shelves/rods and the floor; remove leftover hooks/hardware.
Entry, laundry & utility
- Washer: clean detergent tray and door gasket. Dryer: wipe exterior and clear lint area.
- Entryway: glass, trim, and hardware; mop salt/dirt lines near thresholds (very common locally).
The “Forgotten 10” (do these before you leave)
- Light switches & dimmers
- Thermostats & remotes
- Door handles (both sides)
- Window tracks
- Ceiling fan blades & light fixtures
- Behind/under major appliances
- Shower curtain/liner
- Inside trash/recycle cans (wash & disinfect)
- Blinds and curtain tops
- Closet shelves & baseboards
Pet and family friendly product choices
Choose non-toxic, biodegradable formulas whenever possible. Vinegar and baking soda handle many surfaces; finish high-touch areas with a pet-safe disinfectant.
When to call the pros
Short on time, facing heavy buildup, or just want a neutral, landlord-ready standard? Our team can handle your Move-In/Move-Out Cleaning with a checklist-driven approach and eco-friendly products so you can focus on your move, not the mess.
Ready for a stress-free hand-off? Contact us today for a free quote and experience the Sparkle & Sheen difference.