Moving is already a marathon. You’ve gotten your closest buddy to help you move the sofa another time, and you’ve labeled and packed all of the boxes (or at least written “kitchen-ish” on some of them). Scrubbing baseboards or removing sticky items from fridge shelves is something no one wants to do for hours. This is where cleaning services for moving in and out come in.
Hiring a professional cleaning service for your move-in or move-out may help you save time and energy, reduce stress, make sure your new or old apartment is clean, and boost your chances of getting your security deposit returned.
In this article, we’ll dive into why these services are worth it, how they can save your sanity, what’s typically included, and even compare the costs of DIY vs. hiring help. By the end, you’ll know whether cleaning services are the right move for your next move.
Why Move-In & Out Cleaning Is Worth It
When you’re moving, your to-do list is already overflowing. Adding hours of cleaning on top feels impossible. Move-in and out cleaning takes that huge task off your shoulders so you can focus on unpacking, settling in, or simply not losing your mind.
It’s not just about convenience. A professional deep clean ensures every corner is tackled—things like vent covers, grout, and even behind the stove. These are spots most of us don’t even think about until it’s too late.
How Cleaning Saves You Time
Think about how long it takes to deep-clean a single bathroom. Now multiply that by an entire apartment or house. You’re looking at hours, if not days.
Quick Tip: Professionals bring the right tools and cleaning products. What takes you four hours with a sponge, they can finish in one with industrial-grade supplies.
Here’s what eats up the most time during a move:
- Scrubbing kitchens (grease and appliances are no joke)
- Cleaning bathrooms thoroughly
- Wiping down every wall, baseboard, and cabinet
- Carpet and floor cleaning
- Trash removal and dusting ceiling fans
Instead of doing all of that, you could be unpacking, working, or just relaxing with pizza in your new place.
How It Reduces Stress
Moving is consistently ranked one of life’s most stressful events. Between logistics, deadlines, and the physical exhaustion of lifting boxes, cleaning becomes the straw that breaks the camel’s back.
Studies show that clutter and mess increase stress hormones like cortisol. A freshly cleaned space doesn’t just look good—it helps your mind feel calmer.
By outsourcing cleaning, you’re giving yourself room to breathe. It’s one less giant task fighting for your attention.
What’s Usually Included In Move-In & Out Cleaning
Every cleaning company has slightly different packages, but most cover the same essentials. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Room | Typical Tasks |
| Kitchen | Clean appliances, scrub counters, degrease stove, wipe cabinets, sanitize sink |
| Bathroom | Scrub toilet, tub, shower, sink, mirrors, tiles, disinfect surfaces |
| Bedrooms/Living Areas | Dust surfaces, wipe walls/baseboards, vacuum carpets, mop floors. |
| Whole House | Trash removal, spot cleaning walls, cleaning vents, and window sills |
Fact: Some companies even offer extras like carpet shampooing, inside-window washing, or garage cleaning.
Why It Helps With Your Security Deposit
You already know the objective if you’re renting: get your deposit back. Managers and landlords of rental properties are fussy. You can end up spending hundreds on a single messed-up appliance or carpet damage.
Suggestion: Get a checklist from your cleaning provider if you’re packing up and leaving. This way, you can be confident that nothing was overlooked and that you can show that the location was clean when you left.
Spending a little money on cleaning might prevent an uncomfortable confrontation with your landlord and ensure a complete return.
Moving In? Here’s Why It Matters
Even if your landlord swears the place was “cleaned,” you’d be surprised at what’s left behind. Hidden dust, lingering odors, and stains often stick around.
Having professionals do a move-in clean means you start fresh. No mystery crumbs in the drawers, no sticky bathroom floors, and no weird smells in the fridge.
Skipping a move-in clean can expose you to bacteria, mold, or allergens left behind by the previous tenants.
Diy VS. Hiring Pros
Rolling up one’s sleeves and cleaning oneself is more appealing to some. Let’s compare the two:
DIY Cleaning
- Costs less money
- Gives you control over what gets cleaned
- It can take 2–3 full days for a standard house
- Requires buying supplies
Professional Cleaning
- Saves 10–20+ hours of work
- Done in half a day
- Higher upfront cost
- Results are usually better
What matters most is the value you place on your time and mental health.
How to Choose A Cleaning Service
Not all cleaning companies are created equal. Here’s how to pick a good one:
- Check reviews – Look for consistent feedback about reliability and thoroughness.
- Ask what’s included – Make sure the service covers all the areas you care about.
- Confirm insurance – You want them covered in case of damage.
- Compare prices – Don’t just go for the cheapest; balance cost with quality.
- Ask about supplies – Some bring their own, others expect you to provide them.
Be cautious of companies that won’t provide a written quote or dodge your questions.
Conclusion
Moving is already overwhelming—you don’t need the extra headache of scrubbing floors and cleaning appliances. Move-in and out cleaning saves you time, lowers your stress, helps with deposits, and makes sure your new home feels truly yours.
