For Homeowners & Renters
The Complete Delaware Move-Out Cleaning Checklist
Everything you need to clean before handing over the keys — and get your full deposit back.
8 min read·40 checklist items·
Whether you're a renter trying to recover your security deposit or a homeowner preparing to list, this checklist covers every room and surface a landlord or buyer will inspect. Follow it room-by-room to avoid surprises on move-out day.
1Kitchen
Clean inside the refrigerator (remove shelves, wipe down)
Clean inside the oven (run self-clean or use oven cleaner)
Wipe down all cabinet interiors and exteriors
Clean the dishwasher (run with cleaner, wipe seal)
Scrub sink and polish faucet
Clean stovetop and range hood (remove grease)
Wipe down countertops and backsplash
Clean inside all drawers
Sweep and mop the floor (including behind appliances)
Remove all food and trash
2Bathrooms
Scrub toilet (bowl, seat, base, behind)
Clean shower/tub (remove soap scum, hard water)
Clean grout and re-caulk if needed
Wipe down vanity and sink
Clean mirror and any glass
Clean inside medicine cabinet and drawers
Replace shower curtain or clean liner
Sweep and mop the floor
Clean exhaust fan cover
Remove all personal items
3Living Areas & Bedrooms
Dust all surfaces (shelves, baseboards, ceiling fans)
Clean light fixtures and switch plates
Wipe down window sills and tracks
Clean inside closets (vacuum, wipe shelves)
Remove all nails/screws from walls and patch holes
Vacuum all carpets (consider professional steam clean)
Sweep and mop hard floors
Clean interior windows
Dust blinds and curtains
Remove all personal items and trash
4General & Exterior
Replace burnt-out light bulbs
Test all smoke detectors (replace batteries)
Clean air vents and registers
Wipe down doors and doorframes
Clean interior of garage/storage areas
Remove all trash and recycling
Check for any damage to document
Take photos of every room after cleaning
Return all keys, fobs, and garage remotes
Provide forwarding address to landlord
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