Moving can be an exciting but also stressful experience. There's so much to consider, from planning and organizing to transporting furniture. One of the last tasks, but one that's often overlooked, is cleaning your old apartment or house. If you don't approach cleaning properly, it can not only cause stress but also financial losses, such as losing your security deposit. In this article, you'll learn why move-out cleaning is so important, what services it includes, and how to find the right cleaning company for your move.

Why is moving cleaning important?

Moving-out cleaning plays a central role in the moving process. If you live in a rented apartment or house, you've most likely paid a security deposit that you want to get back. However, the deposit is often only fully refunded if the apartment is left in perfect condition after you move out. An inadequately cleaned home can result in landlords deducting cleaning costs from your security deposit.

Even if you're not moving but simply selling your apartment, pre-move cleaning is important. A clean apartment can increase the value of the property and impress potential buyers or tenants.

Move-out cleaning ensures that your apartment is left in a condition that meets the expectations of the landlord or future tenants. This often includes a thorough cleaning of the kitchen, bathroom, windows, and floors, which often require special treatment.

What does moving cleaning involve?

Professional move-out cleaning is comprehensive and goes beyond simply vacuuming or wiping surfaces. Here's a detailed list of what typically goes into move-out cleaning:

1. Thorough cleaning of the floors

The floors in your apartment or house require thorough cleaning, which can vary depending on the material. Carpets need to be thoroughly vacuumed and, if necessary, cleaned to remove stains. Hard floors such as tile, laminate, or parquet should be treated with appropriate cleaning products to ensure they are free of dirt and residue.

2. Window cleaning

Windows are often the most difficult part of the move-out cleaning process. A thorough window cleaning not only ensures a clean finish to the move, but also allows more light into your home. Professional window cleaning involves washing the windows both inside and out, including the window frames and sills. Removing stubborn dirt or limescale often requires special cleaning agents and techniques.

3. Kitchen cleaning

The kitchen is one of the most heavily used rooms in any home, and therefore requires special attention during move-in cleaning. The oven, microwave, and refrigerator must be thoroughly cleaned. Grease stains and burnt-on food residue in appliances and on surfaces should be removed. Cabinets and shelves also need to be cleaned and cleared of all residue.

4. Bathroom cleaning

In the bathroom, tiles, fixtures, sinks, toilets, and showers or bathtubs all need to be cleaned. Special cleaning agents are also required here to remove limescale deposits and disinfect the surfaces. The shower often requires a particularly intensive cleaning to remove mold and thoroughly clean the seals.

5. Dust removal and cleaning of surfaces

In addition to the floors and kitchen, all surfaces, such as shelves, window sills, doors, and wall surfaces, must be thoroughly dusted and cleaned. This not only ensures cleanliness but also helps your home look fresh and well-maintained.

Moving cleaning: Do it yourself or Hire professionals?

When planning a move-out cleaning, you'll need to decide whether to handle it yourself or hire professional help. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages:

1. Do it yourself

Doing the move-out cleaning yourself certainly saves money, but it also takes a lot of time and energy. If you're busy or already in the middle of the move, finding enough time to clean can be a challenge. You may also need special cleaning products and equipment that not every household has at home.

2. Hire professionals

Hiring a professional cleaning company for your move-out cleaning offers numerous advantages:

• Time savings: Professionals do the cleaning much faster and more efficiently, saving you time for other moving tasks.
• Quality: Cleaning companies have experienced staff and specialized equipment to clean even hard-to-reach areas and thoroughly clean your home.
• Deposit refund: A professional cleaning ensures a flawless result that helps you get your deposit back in full.

How much does moving out cleaning cost?

The cost of a move-out cleaning depends on various factors, including the size of the apartment, the scope of the cleaning, and the region. Prices can vary in Zurich and other major cities in Switzerland. As a rough guide, you can expect the following costs:

• Small apartment (1-2 rooms): approx. CHF 250-350
• Medium apartment (3-4 rooms): approx. CHF 400-600
• Large apartment (from 5 rooms): approx. CHF 600-900

Prices vary depending on the provider and the specific requirements of your move-out cleaning. It's worth getting several quotes and comparing prices and services to find the best deal.

Tips for successful move-out cleaning

To make the move-out cleaning process run even more smoothly, here are some important tips:

1. Plan early

Plan your move-in cleaning well in advance to ensure it can be completed after moving day. Ideally, the cleaning should take place immediately after the furniture has been transported and before the keys are handed over.

2. Arrange a viewing

Some cleaning companies offer a free inspection of the apartment before providing a final quote. This gives you a clear idea of the costs and scope of the work to be done.

3. Keep an eye on the deposit

If you outsource move-in cleaning, make sure the cleaning service provides a detailed invoice. This can help you get your security deposit refunded, as you can prove that the cleaning was done professionally.

Conclusion

Moving-out cleaning is an important part of any moving process, one that is often underestimated. If you want to ensure you get your deposit back in full or simply leave your apartment in perfect condition, you shouldn't take this task lightly. Either do the cleaning yourself or hire a professional cleaning company, who will take care of everything. This way, you can ensure that the move not only goes smoothly but also ends with a clean apartment.