What makes move-out cleaning different?
Move-out cleaning is a full clean of an empty (or nearly empty) home so it's ready for handover: to a landlord, new tenant, or buyer. You're not maintaining a lived-in space; you're bringing the whole property up to a high standard in one go. That means inside and outside all appliances, grout and tubs, baseboards, windows, light fixtures, closets, and often wall marks and leftover residue. This checklist focuses on the supplies you need for that kind of job.
How to use your move-out supplies checklist with cleaners
Customize the checklist above so it matches what you actually bring to move-out cleans (check or uncheck items), then download the PDF. Print one copy for the van or supply closet as a restock list, or print one per job so your crew can verify they have everything before they start. Giving each cleaner a copy helps avoid showing up short on oven cleaner or magic erasers. Some teams share a copy with the client or landlord so everyone agrees on what's included.
What's included in a move-out clean (end of tenancy scope)
A typical move-out clean covers the whole house with an eye toward landlord or buyer inspection. Kitchens: inside and outside oven, refrigerator, dishwasher; sink, counters, cabinets inside and out, backsplash. Bathrooms: toilet (inside, seat, base, behind), tub and shower (including grout and soap scum), sink, vanity, mirror. Throughout: baseboards, light switches, doorknobs, ceiling fans, light fixtures, window sills and tracks, closets (shelves and floors), wall marks and scuffs where possible, and all floors. Trash left behind may or may not be in scope; confirm with the client.
Your exact scope depends on what you quote. Use this supplies list as a guide: if you include oven cleaning, you need oven cleaner and the right tools; if you tackle wall marks, you need magic erasers or similar. Defining scope up front (and putting it in your service description or quote) helps avoid disputes with tenants or landlords.
Move-out cleaning time and pricing (flat rate, per room)
Move-out cleans usually take longer than a standard clean because the home is empty and you're doing a full handover clean. How long depends on size and condition. Block enough time in your schedule and price accordingly. Many businesses charge a flat rate per property or per room for move-out. For ideas on pricing add-ons like inside oven or inside fridge, see our blog post on cleaning add-ons.
Order of work for move-out cleans (top to bottom, empty house)
Work from top to bottom and tackle one room (or zone) at a time. Dust and debris fall downward, so start with high surfaces (ceiling fans, tops of cabinets, light fixtures, shelves), then counters and fixtures, then floors. That way you're not wiping dust onto already-cleaned areas. Some teams start with upper floors and work down. Finishing one room before moving to the next keeps your caddy organized and makes it easier for your team to stay on track.
Eco-friendly move-out cleaning and landlord or tenant preferences
Some clients or landlords prefer eco-friendly or low-fragrance products. The checklist includes an optional eco-friendly section (plant-based cleaners, ammonia-free glass cleaner, non-toxic oven cleaner, etc.). For those jobs, stock those options and avoid harsh chemicals where you can. Check with the client or property manager if they have preferences or restrictions before the clean.
How much move-out cleaning supply do you need?
Use our free Home Cleaning Supplies Calculator to estimate how much to order based on how many cleaners you have and how many move-out cleans you do each month.
Move-out cleaning supplies by category
We've grouped the list so you can scan by category and customize the checklist above. The exact items you need depend on what you include (e.g. oven, carpet, wall marks). For pricing and offering add-ons, see our blog post on cleaning add-ons.
1. Tools & Equipment
Mop and bucket (microfiber with wringer; separate wash/rinse for empty-house floors)
Empty-house handovers often mean dirtier floors. A microfiber mop with wringer gives a streak-free finish; use separate wash and rinse water so you are not spreading grime. Standard for end-of-tenancy final pass.
Broom, whisk broom & dustpan (corners, under appliances, closets)
Clear corners, under appliances, and inside closets before you mop or vacuum. A whisk broom handles edges and small spots. Sweeping first keeps debris out of wet areas and speeds the final floor clean.
Vacuum cleaner with attachments (crevice, brush, HEPA; drawers, cabinets, closets)
End-of-tenancy cleans need thorough vacuuming: cabinet and drawer interiors, closets, baseboards, corners. Crevice and brush attachments get into tight spots; HEPA filters help with dust. Run before carpet cleaning or mopping.
Heavy-duty scrub brushes (tubs, tile, grout, oven)
Stiff-bristle brushes for tubs, tile, grout, and oven interiors. Landlords and buyers focus on kitchens and bathrooms, so these areas need to look spotless. Pair with the right cleaner for each surface.
Detail brushes and mini grout brushes (grout lines, faucet crevices)
Narrow brushes and mini grout brushes get into grout lines, around faucet bases, and other tight spots. Use with grout or tub cleaner for a finish that passes inspection.
Toothbrush or dedicated grout brush (grout, corners)
Cheap and effective for grout lines and crevices. Keep one dedicated to strong chemicals. Works well with grout or mildew remover in showers and around the toilet base.
Sponges and scrubbing pads (non-scratch and heavy-duty for ovens)
Use non-scratch sponges on most surfaces; switch to heavy-duty or green pads for ovens and tough grease. Replace regularly. Oven condition is a top cause of deposit disputes, so give it proper attention.
Dusters (extendable for ceilings, fans, tops of cabinets, light fixtures)
Long or extendable dusters for ceiling fans, cabinet tops, light fixtures, and high corners. Microfiber heads hold dust instead of spreading it. Dust from the top down so everything lands on the floor for the final vacuum and mop.
Squeegees and T-bars (shower doors, windows; extension pole for high glass)
Strip water and cleaner off shower doors and windows for a streak-free result. An extension pole lets you reach high glass. Part of a solid bathroom and window handover.
Razor scraper (hardened residue, stickers, adhesive; glass and cooktops)
Removes hardened residue, stickers, and adhesive from glass, cooktops, and some tiles. Use a light touch to prevent scratches. Handy when tenants leave behind labels or buildup.
Bucket or caddy for carrying supplies room to room
Carry sprays, cloths, and tools from room to room without extra trips. In an empty property, a single caddy or bucket keeps everything to hand and speeds the job.
Storage bins for chemicals and color-coded cloths
Organize chemicals and color-coded cloths in the van or at home. Keep clean and dirty cloths in separate bins so nothing gets mixed or lost.
Laundry bag for used rags and mop heads
Stash used rags and mop heads in a dedicated bag so they stay separate from clean gear and do not contaminate the rest of your kit.
Steam cleaner (tile, grout, showers; optional for green/sanitize)
Steam cleans and sanitizes tile, grout, and showers without strong chemicals. A good option when the client or landlord wants a green or low-chemical move-out clean.
Carpet cleaning machine / extractor (if you offer carpet on move-out)
Extractors and carpet machines for a full clean of carpets and rugs. Offer as part of the move-out package or as an add-on. Rent or buy based on how many jobs you do.
2. General & Multi-Purpose
All-purpose cleaner (counters, walls, baseboards, doors; regular or plant-based)
Your main cleaner for counters, walls, baseboards, doors, and other hard surfaces in vacant units. Choose neutral pH for most materials; plant-based versions when eco is requested.
Disinfectant spray or wipes (high-touch, dwell time per label)
Use on light switches, doorknobs, cabinet pulls, and other high-touch spots. Respect the label dwell time. Gives landlords and new tenants confidence that the property is sanitized.
Heavy-duty degreaser (kitchens, range hoods, baked-on grease)
Tackles baked-on grease on stovetops, range hoods, and kitchen surfaces. Pick a heavy-duty formula for neglected kitchens or a natural one when the client wants eco options.
Glass and mirror cleaner (windows, mirrors; ammonia-free option)
For windows, mirrors, and glass doors. Ammonia-free if requested. Pair with a clean microfiber or squeegee so glass looks good for the final walkthrough.
Floor cleaner (wood, tile, laminate; neutral or surface-specific)
Made for wood, tile, and laminate. Use a product that matches the floor type. Final mopping after dusting and vacuuming makes the handover look complete.
Descaling agent (hard water, showerheads, faucets)
Takes hard water scale off showerheads, faucets, and toilet rims. Follow the product directions. Matters in regions with hard water so fixtures look clean for inspection.
3. Bathroom
Toilet bowl cleaner (and disinfectant for seat, base, handle, behind)
Use in the bowl; combine with disinfectant on the seat, base, handle, and behind the toilet. Gel or liquid with a brush is typical. Expected for any move-out bathroom handover.
Tub and tile cleaner (soap scum, hard water)
Removes soap scum and hard water from tubs, tile, and shower surrounds. Use with scrub brushes so bathrooms pass landlord or buyer inspection.
Mildew and mold remover (shower, under sink)
Treats and helps prevent mildew and mold in showers and under sinks. Use where you see discoloration. Improves the handover and reduces follow-up complaints.
Grout cleaner (heavy-duty or pH-balanced for colored grout)
Designed for grout lines. Heavy-duty for tough buildup; pH-balanced for colored or sensitive grout. Use with a detail or grout brush in bathrooms and kitchens.
Soap scum remover (shower doors, acrylic, glass)
Removes soap scum from shower doors and acrylic. Use with your tub and tile cleaner so glass and surrounds look clear and streak-free.
4. Kitchen
Dish soap (sink, faucet, light degreasing; fragrance-free option)
Gentle option for the sink, faucet, and light kitchen wipe-downs. Fragrance-free if the client asks. Covers sink and hand-wash areas on the list.
Oven cleaner (baked-on grease; often the #1 landlord check; standard or non-toxic)
Tackles baked-on grease inside the oven. Landlords often inspect the oven first; a clean one supports deposit return and good reviews. Standard or non-toxic formulas available.
Stainless steel cleaner (appliances, streak-free)
Cleans and polishes stainless refrigerators, ranges, and hoods without streaks. Makes appliances look ready for the next tenant or buyer.
Stone-safe cleaner (marble, granite, quartz countertops)
Safe for marble, granite, and quartz. Skip acidic or abrasive products. Use wherever the property has stone counters so you do not damage them.
White vinegar and baking soda (eco-friendly options, odors)
Natural option for light descaling, deodorizing, and gentle scrubbing. Suits clients who want eco products or helps with odors in vacant units.
5. Floors & Carpets
Carpet cleaner and deodorizer (extractor or hand spotting)
Liquid or foam for your carpet machine or hand spotting. Removes dirt and odors. Include when carpet cleaning is part of the move-out service.
Spot and stain removers (carpet and upholstery)
Formulas aimed at carpet and upholstery stains. Always test on a hidden area first. Use when tenants have left stains that need to be addressed.
Hardwood floor cleaner (safe for finished wood)
Formulated for finished wood floors. Do not use all-purpose on hardwood; use this to clean without damaging the finish. Part of a proper move-out floor clean.
6. Furniture & Surfaces
Furniture polish (wood and wood-finish surfaces, if applicable)
Cleans and adds a light shine to wood and wood-finish surfaces when furniture is in scope. Skip unsealed or specialty finishes unless the product is approved for them.
Tile and grout cleaner (pH-balanced for floors and backsplashes)
pH-balanced for tile and grout on floors and backsplashes. Reduces risk of etching or color change in bathrooms and kitchens.
7. Cloths, Pads & Accessories
Microfiber cloths (color-coded by area to prevent cross-contamination)
Reusable cloths that grab dust and clean without streaking. Use different colors for bathroom vs. kitchen (and other zones) to avoid cross-contamination on move-out jobs.
Glass cleaning cloths (lint-free, streak-free)
Lint-free cloths for glass and mirrors. Use with glass cleaner and a squeegee so windows and mirrors pass the handover check.
Paper towels or disposable wipes (messy or sanitizing tasks)
One-time use for messy or sanitizing tasks, or when you prefer not to reuse cloths. Handy for harsh chemicals or one-off wipe-downs.
Reusable rags or cleaning cloths (wash and separate by area)
Reusable cloths for wiping and scrubbing. Launder and keep by area (e.g. kitchen vs. bathroom). Economical when you do a lot of move-out cleans.
Magic erasers / melamine pads (wall marks, scuffs, baseboards, adhesive residue)
Melamine foam removes wall marks, scuffs, baseboard smudges, and light adhesive. Test on a hidden spot first. Landlords notice clean walls and baseboards, so these are especially useful on move-out.
8. Protective Gear & Safety
Disposable gloves (change between tasks or homes)
Protect hands from chemicals and germs. Swap between tasks or properties to avoid cross-contamination. Normal practice on move-out cleans.
Reusable rubber gloves (hot water, strong chemicals)
Reusable heavy-duty gloves for hot water and strong chemicals. Wear when using oven cleaner, degreaser, or bleach-based products.
Aprons or coveralls (move-out jobs can be dusty and dirty)
Aprons or coveralls protect your clothes. Vacant units can be dusty and sometimes have leftover debris, so coverage helps.
Non-slip shoes
Slip-resistant soles reduce the chance of slipping on wet floors. Recommended on every job.
Shoe covers (optional; empty homes may allow shoes)
Optional in empty homes; some landlords or clients want shoes off or covered. Use when they ask or in new-build handovers.
Goggles or face shield (splashing chemicals, aerosols)
Wear when using chemicals that splash or aerosolize, such as strong acids, bleach, or spray disinfectants, if the label requires it.
Wet floor / safety signage
Alert anyone who might enter (e.g. landlord, agent) that floors are wet. Use when floors will stay wet for a while.
Basic first aid kit
Basic supplies for small cuts, burns, or irritation. Keep in the van or caddy so you can handle minor incidents on site.
9. Waste & Disposal
Trash bags (multiple sizes; client may leave trash behind)
Carry several sizes. Tenants often leave trash; use for that and for your own waste. Confirm with the client whether removing leftover trash is in scope.
Dirty/clean rag storage bags
Use separate bags or bins for dirty and clean rags so they never get mixed when you are carrying reusables.
10. Optional / Eco-Friendly Add-ons
Plant-based or eco all-purpose cleaner
Plant-based or other eco multi-surface cleaner. Use when the client or landlord asks for green products on the move-out clean.
Ammonia-free / eco glass cleaner
Eco or ammonia-free glass cleaner. Softer on some surfaces and better for sensitive households.
Non-toxic or fume-free oven cleaner
Non-toxic or low-fume oven cleaner. Safer when the property is still occupied during the move-out period.
Natural degreaser
Degreasers made with plant-based or gentler ingredients. Use in the kitchen when the client wants eco-friendly options.
Eco-friendly stain remover
Eco-friendly stain removers for carpets and fabrics. Use when clients request green options for spot cleaning.