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How to Clean Your Apartment Like a Pro
Apr 21, 2025
Get a professional-level clean without the cost
Few things are as satisfying as a freshly cleaned home, but hiring a professional service isn’t always in the budget. The good news is you don’t need one. Whether you’re moving out, preparing to host guests or simply ready to tackle those forgotten corners, a DIY approach can get the job done just as well.
With a little effort and the right strategy, you can make your space look and feel professionally cleaned — for a fraction of the cost.
Your go-to guide for cleaning an apartment (or other home!)
Follow these expert tips to tackle dirt, dust and grime efficiently.
Use the right products
Before getting started on any project, having the right materials on hand is a good idea. Use these essentials:
- All-purpose cleaner
- Baking soda
- Dishwashing soap
- Disinfectant wipes
- Fume-free oven cleaner
- Distilled white vinegar
- Toilet gel
- Wood polish
- Broom (with a dustpan)
- Melamine foam bricks (the generic version of Mr. Clean Magic Erasers®)
- Microfiber cloths (get multiple so you can use them for dusting, washing and drying!)
- Mop
- Rubber gloves
- Scrub brushes (a toilet brush and an old toothbrush will be helpful)
- Sponges or paper towels
- Trash bags
- Vacuum
A note about cleaners
While there’s no shortage of products on the market that promise miracle results, many professionals swear by simple, cost-effective options like vinegar, baking soda and all-purpose cleaners. These affordable staples can tackle most surfaces, from counters to floors, without requiring specialty products.
For tougher jobs like kitchen appliances or soap scum in the bathroom, consider using a more specific cleaner, but always read labels for recommendations.
Never work in a cluttered space
Take the time to remove unnecessary items and put everything where it belongs. This will make cleaning more effective and ensure you can reach surfaces you may otherwise overlook.
Go top to bottom and left to right
Professional cleaners have a method to their madness — and it's all about efficiency. Start with ceilings, light fixtures and other elevated areas to remove dust and cobwebs. As you work your way down the room, debris will fall to lower surfaces, where you'll tackle them last.
Similarly, going left to right helps you get to every spot. By following this method, you avoid double cleaning and save time in the process.
Clear the dust, then make it shine
Before applying a wet sponge or cleaner to any surface, use a microfiber cloth to remove all traces of dust. Skipping this step can lead to sticky residue and streaks, requiring multiple attempts to get the job done.
Spend extra time where it’s needed
Some areas need more attention than others. For example, ovens and refrigerators will likely need more care than a hallway. If you’re facing stubborn grime or stains, allow cleaners to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. This will make the process easier and more effective.
Apartment cleaning FAQs
Not sure where to start or how to tackle everything before a move? These FAQs will help!
How often should I deep clean?
This depends on your lifestyle, household size and personal preferences. A good general rule is to deep clean every six months, but people with allergies may want a more frequent routine.
How long should I spend on each room?
In general, expect to spend 30-60 minutes per room, but high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms may take 1-2 hours each.
What’s the difference between a deep clean and a move-out clean?
Deep cleaning is a thorough scrubbing of your apartment while you're still living in it. It focuses on areas not part of regular maintenance, like wiping down baseboards and polishing windows.
A move-out clean is a top-to-bottom approach meant to restore the space to its original condition. This includes areas like the insides of cabinets, appliances and closets.
Why is it important to clean before and after a move?
A deep clean before and after a move isn’t just about hygiene — it makes the entire process smoother. Cleaning before moving into a new place ensures you're not living with someone else’s mess. On the other end, leaving a fresh home behind is a courtesy to the next occupant and can ensure you don’t lose your security deposit.
How can I clean my apartment without disturbing my neighbors?
Living in an apartment means having neighbors above, below and beside you. While not always a problem, this can make tasks like vacuuming and sliding furniture around difficult to do if you’re trying to stay quiet. The easiest way to approach this is to stick to regular daylight hours (10 a.m. to 7 p.m.) for noisier tasks.
If that’s not possible, give your neighbors a heads up or stick to options like sweeping or mopping. When moving furniture, place towels or rugs underneath to help reduce scraping noises on the floor. Get more tips about apartment moving.
Any advice for not getting overwhelmed?
One of the best strategies is to focus on one room at a time rather than trying to clean everything at once. Setting a timer and working in 20- or 30-minute sessions can also make the process feel less daunting.
I’m short on time. Which rooms should I focus on?
If you're pressed for time, prioritize the kitchen and bathroom. These spaces not only accumulate grime faster than others but are also the most noticeable when they’re not clean. The entryway and main living area are also worth focusing on since they create the first impression when someone walks in.
For move-out cleans, concentrate on areas that landlords typically inspect, like appliances, floors and baseboards.
Moving out? U-Pack makes it easy
Cleaning before a move is just one part of the process, but getting your belongings safely to your new home is another critical step. That’s where U-Pack comes in. With affordable, flexible moving solutions, we make long-distance moving easier. Learn about our options for apartments and other small moves.
Ready to start planning? Get a free quote today.
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