Move Out, Clean, Get Your Deposit Back
If it's time to move out of your rented home or apartment, it's time to start cleaning! Whether you get your security deposit back depends on how well you clean your home, and landlords love looking for excuses to keep it.
The good news is, here in Texas, landlords are required by law to return your security deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 30 days of you surrendering the property. Do your Fort Worth move-out cleaning right, and you'll have your deposit back fast.
Room-by-Room Move-Out Checklist
While all of your rental home should be cleaned, these are the MOST important aspects to focus on. These are the first places your landlord will look when evaluating the property.
The Kitchen:
- Any appliances that came with the rental must be thoroughly cleaned, inside and out. This includes the oven, stovetop, refrigerator, freezer, etc.
- Remove all trash.
- Wipe all cabinets inside and out. Watch out for crumbs!
- Scrub the sink and faucet, and also make sure the drain is clear.
- Wipe down all the countertops and other exposed surfaces.
- Sweep and mop the floor.
Bathrooms:
- Fully clean the sink, faucet, and vanity.
- Scrub the toilet, shower, and/or tub thoroughly - including the grout and glass!
- Clean all mirrors and cabinet fronts.
- Clear out the drains; make sure there are no clogs.
- Remove as much soap scum and mildew as possible.
- Sweep and mop the floor.
- Clean the trash and its area.
Bedrooms and Living Room:
- Dust thoroughly everywhere - don't forget hidden spots like the topside of ceiling fan blades.
- Clean the windows sills and blinds.
- Vacuum any carpets thoroughly.
- Wipe down standing surfaces such as door frames, switch plates, etc.
- Sweep and mop any hard floors.
- Check your lease for policies regarding nails in the wall or similar minor wall defects; you may need to spackle these or touch up the paint.
Also, keep in mind that under Texas law (as of 2026), landlords cannot withhold your deposit for expected everyday wear and tear, only actual damage. So don't stress over minor issues such as carpeting or paint being a little more faded than when you moved in.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro for Deposit-Critical Areas
If you want to get your deposit back, it's best to have your apartment move-out cleaning handled by professionals. A top-class maid service can deep-clean every area in your rental, making it as good as new.
Otherwise, you'll be spending at least a day or two cleaning, when you have more important things to worry about. Moving is already stressful; why pile more work on your shoulders?
Book a DFW Move-Out Clean With Organically Maid
Voted Most Loved by the readers of mom blog Hulafrog in 2020, Organically Maid is your best choice for move-out cleaning in Fort Worth, Dallas, Plano, and the larger Metroplex. We use only eco-friendly cleaning products that are safe for humans and pets, and our services are fully certified and insured. You can trust your move-out cleaning to us and focus on the excitement of moving day.
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