Move Out Carpet Cleaning: 9 Tips to Keep Your Security Deposit

March 16, 2021 JMI Moving Tips

Whether you have lived in the same apartment for years or moved around every couple of months, caring for the space with which you have been entrusted is important. Without an ownership stake in the property, it is easy to let things slide, but taking that attitude could be bad for your wallet and your future rental prospects.

9 Carpet Cleaning Tips

If you want to leave your apartment in pristine condition and leave your landlord happy, cleaning the carpets is a good place to start. The right carpet cleaning can help you keep your security deposit so you can move on to your next apartment with a clean slate and a full wallet. Here are nine simple move out carpet cleaning hacks that can save your security deposit and your sanity.

1. Move your belongings first.

You are moving out anyway, so do not let your personal possessions get in the way. Clear them out now, before you start cleaning the carpets.

2. Start with obvious stains.

If you can see stains and discoloration, so can your landlord. Tackle those obvious difficulties first, and then move on to a more thorough cleaning.

3. Make your own cleansers.

You do not have to spend a fortune on expensive carpet cleaners, not when you have the supplies you need in your pantry. When you clean out the fridge, save that box of baking soda; you can use it for spot removal on the carpets.

4. Work on one room at a time.

You do not have to tackle the entire apartment at once; just start with the most difficult room and work from there.

5. Move furniture to the center of each room.

Stains and carpet discolorations can hide under sofas and behind bookcases, so move the furniture before you get started.

6. Vacuum thoroughly.

Now that the furniture has been moved, you and your vacuum cleaner have a clear path. You will be surprised at how much hidden dirt the vacuum can remove, and that makes your carpet cleaning task a lot easier.

7. Focus on the edges.

It is easy to overlook the edges of the room, but your landlord is sure to notice any deficiencies. Make sure the entire carpet, from one corner to the other, is thoroughly cleaned.

8. Clean throw rugs and area rugs outdoors.

Unless it is raining, take area rugs, throw rugs and other small carpets outside to air out, then clean them thoroughly before bringing them back inside.

9. Invest in a DIY deep cleaning if you need to.

Even if a professional cleaning is not in your budget, you can still rent a steam cleaner and do the work yourself. This finishing touch will leave the carpets sparkling so you can move out with your security deposit in hand.

The security deposit you provided when you moved into your apartment was there to protect the landlord, but now it is time to reclaim that money. If you want to move on to your next adventure with that money in your pocket, you need to plan ahead and clean every room thoroughly. The nine move out carpet cleaning tips listed above can help you get your security deposit back and give your landlord something to smile about.

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Develynne Camack

21:27 22 Jun 18

We did a move from Raleigh to the Orlando area an were very pleased with the crew. They were on time and went right to work. Pleasant and cordial they maintained a professional atmosphere during a hot demanding 3 rd floor move. I recommend them.

Katrina M.

20:28 23 Jun 18

Brian and his team made the process so seemless, and went the extra mile by picking my furniture up from the warehouse. The service and time frame were exceptional! Thank you Brian

Michelle E.

15:56 17 Mar 18

This has been the best moving experience for me of all the moves I've made. This morning three gentlemen arrived promptly, courteously and ready to go. Each person introduced themselves as well. I was told there would be two movers originally so I was surprised to see three. It was explained to me the reason and there was no charge for the additional gentleman. They took great care with my things. They are in route to our new house where my fiance will greet them for unloading. I am certain he will receive the same great care and courtesy that I experienced. And I should add that this is a Veteran run organization and it meant a lot to me, as one Vet to another, to give them my business. I'm so glad I did. Thank you for all your service!

Cassandra Mahany

18:44 02 Mar 18

Just Move It was the best decision I ever made! They were in and out very quickly and helped me with things I didn't even think about. HIGHLY recommended! Thank you so much! Will definitely hire them for my next moving experience.

Theresa Strickland

13:52 26 May 18

We hired Just Move It on May 22, 2018 to move my elderly mother's furniture from one assisted living facility to another. They arrived early and assisted my husband with the monitor (television) and even helped load my mother's personal belongings. They did not even complain about the stifling temperature on the second floor of the facility that they had to work in (one of the reasons that I was moving my mother out of Brookdale/Wekiwa Springs, so don't ever put your loved one in that place) or even the fact that the new facility had not yet moved their in-house furniture out of the room where my mom was going to reside. They were patient, professional, efficient, helpful, kind, understanding and beyond a 5-star rating! I would recommend this company for ANY move that you have, large or small. They really do care about your belongings and take extra care with everything. And, the price was very fair and reasonable!

Angel Rodriguez

17:05 01 May 18

Tracy, Diego, and Angel were the best in moving my piano. Keep up the good work! Yours Truly: Sarah B