Moving houses can feel like running a marathon in flip-flops. One minute you’re packing plates, and the next, you’re scrubbing skirting boards you forgot existed. But, here’s the good news: Cleaning doesn’t need to be a full-blown ordeal.
You don’t need fancy sprays or a trip to Wickes. A few basic supplies and some cleaning hacks are all it takes to get your place looking sharp. These clever tricks are easy, cost-effective, and perfect for that final clean-up sprint.
Declutter Before Cleaning
Less clutter means fewer items to clean around, which is especially helpful when you’re already trying to pack and move.
So, take a moment to go through your things. Decide what’s worth keeping, donate what you can, and toss or recycle the rest. It’s freeing and practical all at once.
Charities are often happy to take items in good condition. In fact, that old kettle or stack of books might help someone else out. Alternatively, you can list things online and pocket a bit of extra cash.
Focus on High-Traffic Areas First
Hallways, lounges, and other busy zones get grubby fast. These spaces collect footprints, crumbs, and who knows what faster than the rest of the house. That’s why you should prioritise them.
A steam cleaner is a brilliant investment here. It cleans thick piles better than your average vacuum, pulling out the kind of dirt that settles in over time. Your carpets will stay looking brand-new for longer, which can save you money in the long run.
You can rent one or hire professional end-of-tenancy cleaning specialists if you don’t know how to use these machines.
As for hard floors, a microfibre mop makes things simple. It grabs onto dust and dirt without needing a single drop of chemical cleaner. All you need are a few quick swipes for a streak-free shine.
These tools do the heavy lifting for you. They’re also especially handy when time’s tight and your bond’s on the line.
Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
Bicarb and vinegar might be sitting quietly in your pantry, but together, they pack a punch. This dynamic duo tackles messes like nothing else, lifting grime and removing odours without the steep price tag.
They’re not just good—they’re borderline miraculous when it comes to cleaning.
If your carpet has an old stain that’s been silently pestering you for weeks, sprinkle on a decent layer of the powder. Then, add a light spray of vinegar.
After a few minutes, vacuum it all up. The stain will fade, and your room is going to be as fresh as a daisy!
You can also use this method on drains. Pour the same combo into your sink. It’ll scour away the gunk and deodorise the pipes. This way, you’ll be left with a fresher-smelling kitchen and no chemical residues.
This method isn’t just easy. It’s also gentler on the environment than store-bought solutions. While harsh chemicals slowly wear down your plumbing, this mix clears it without harm.
You’ll get fantastic results, save cash, and do the planet a small favour at the same time. What’s not to love?
Clean Appliances with Minimal Effort
Your oven and fridge don’t need an industrial scrub-down to look good again. Forget those pricey sprays with countless warning labels. A lemon and some water will do nicely.
To make the best out of this technique, squeeze the juice into two cups of water, give it a stir, and use a cloth or sponge to wipe down the surfaces inside your appliances. It’ll loosen grease and remove smells, making everything look a bit brighter.
If the dirt’s being stubborn, just add a sprinkle of bicarb to the area before applying the lemon solution. The fizz is going to lift the gunk without you having to scrub too hard.
The best thing is that this method is cheap. Lemons don’t cost much, and you probably have sodium bicarbonate sitting somewhere already. You’ll avoid toxins, keep your kitchen safe, and save some money along the way.
You can repeat this trick regularly in your new home without worrying about build-up or fumes as well.
Use Microfibre Cloths for Quick Dusting
Dusting isn’t anyone’s favourite pastime, but microfibre towels make it weirdly satisfying. They cling to dust like magnets and leave surfaces smooth without the need for sprays or wipes.
Swipe them across shelves, benchtops, or picture frames. All dust will disappear in an instant. So, say goodbye to streaks or clouds floating into the air and hello to glinting surfaces.
We recommend using damp cloths. They speed things up and get into corners more easily. Plus, you can toss them in the wash and reuse them, which means less waste and fewer trips to the shop.
They’re sustainable and surprisingly effective, which is why every tenant should keep a few on hand.
Tackle Windows with a DIY Solution
There’s no need to splash out on expensive glass cleaners. You can mix up your own with things you already have in the cupboard. Warm water, a bit of vinegar, and a drop of dish soap are all it takes.
After you’ve prepared your mix, use a clean cloth to apply it across the glass. It’ll cut through grime without leaving streaks behind.
For that final touch, snag some crumpled newspaper and buff the glass in gentle circles. You’ll end up with clear windows that flood the space with natural light.
Plus, sticking to everyday household items means keeping more money in your pocket while dodging those harsh chemicals that cause more trouble than they solve. It’s the kind of detail that landlords notice.
Final Touches: Grout and Corners
When you’re done with everything else, give the grout and corners a once-over. These hidden spots carry more grime than you’d expect, and cleaning them will make the place feel truly spotless.
Mix a bit of baking soda with vinegar again. Dip an old toothbrush in the blend and start scrubbing these surfaces gently. It’ll foam a little, lifting dirt that’s been lurking for far too long.
Corners often trap dust and cobwebs, especially where floors meet skirting. So, use a stiff brush to get into those narrow spots easily. It only takes a few minutes but makes a huge difference.
While these final touches can seem overly fussy, they do matter, as they show you cared enough to go above and beyond.
Conclusion
Moving out doesn’t have to mean endless scrubbing and stress. With a solid plan, you can clean your rental efficiently without wearing yourself out. These simple hacks also make the process faster, cheaper, and a bit more enjoyable.
You’ll avoid harsh chemicals, keep your costs low, and impress your landlord in the process.By following these tips, you are going to leave behind more than just a pristine space. You’ll leave a good impression and get your full deposit back.
