This is a guest blog written by Brandi McConnell. Brandi is, hands down, the best cleaner with whom I’ve ever had the pleasure of working. Brandi recently indulged my request that she share her knowledge with me and those who see this blog.
Essential Tools for Every Professional Cleaner’s Residential Move-Out Cleaning Caddy
When it comes to move-out cleans, the pressure is on to leave the space spotless and ready for the next occupant. As a professional cleaner, having the right tools in your caddy can make all the difference in delivering a thorough, efficient and stress-free clean. Here’s a list of must-have items that should be in every pro cleaner’s arsenal. Some unexpected items include both metal and plastic putty knives, as well as a “Goof Off”-like products, and a steamer.
All-Purpose Cleaner
An all-purpose cleaner is your go-to for tackling various surfaces like countertops, sinks and bathroom tiles. Choose one that is effective on multiple surfaces to save time and space in your caddy. Vineger is one incredible, non-toxic, all-purpose cleaner.
Scrubbing Pads and Sponges
Heavy-duty scrubbing pads and sponges are necessary for tackling tough grime and stains, particularly in the kitchen and bathroom. Keep a variety of textures on hand, from soft for delicate surfaces to abrasive for stubborn spots.
Microfiber Cloths
Microfiber cloths are perfect for dusting, wipingand polishing. Their lint-free texture makes them ideal for getting surfaces clean without leaving streaks or residue. They’re also reusable, an eco-friendly choice.
Dustpan and Brush
A compact dustpan and brush set for sweeping up dirt and debris in hard-to-reach areas, especially after vacuuming, always comes in handy.
Vacuums
For carpets and floors, reliable vacuums with attachments for corners and upholstery are crucial. I highly recommend having a hard floor vacuum as well, ensuring every surface gets the attention it needs. Oreck is one powerful brand with an articulating that makes it easy to vacuum under beds and such.
Steamer
A good steamer can be a game-changer for deep cleaning. It’s excellent for sanitizing surfaces, loosening grime, and cleaning areas like grout, upholstery, and floors without the need for harsh chemicals.
Glass Cleaner
A good glass cleaner will help you achieve spotless windows, mirrors, and glass doors, leaving them shining and free of fingerprints and smudges.
Shmop and Shmop Covers
For hard floors, a thorough vacuum is key before mopping. I recommend a Shmop and plenty of Shmop covers. They provide the same quality clean as mopping on your hands and knees—without breaking your back or knees.
Metal and Plastic Putty Knives
These might be the unsung heroes of move-out cleaning.
Metal Putty Knife: This is ideal for scraping off tougher, dried-on substances like paint drips, glue, or dried food from surfaces like countertops, tiles, or floors. Its sturdy, sharp edge can handle the heavy-duty scraping without bending or breaking.
Plastic Putty Knife: While less rigid than metal, a plastic putty knife is perfect for more delicate surfaces that might scratch easily, like glass, wood, some countertops and painted walls. It’s also great for removing stickers, tape residue and other adhesives without causing damage.
Magic Erasers
These handy tools are perfect for removing scuffs, marks, and stains from walls, doors, and other surfaces. They work like magic on stubborn marks that ordinary cleaners can’t handle. They should be wetted before use.
Toilet Brush and Cleaner
A fresh, clean toilet is non-negotiable. Keep a dedicated toilet brush and a powerful cleaner in your caddy to ensure the bowl is spotless.
Gloves
Protecting your hands from harsh chemicals and grime is important. Stock your caddy with durable, waterproof gloves to keep your skin safe and clean throughout the job.
Trash Bags
Cleaning inevitably leads to trash. Keep a roll of strong, large trash bags in your caddy for disposing of debris, old sponges and any other waste.
Detail Brushes, Wire Brushes, and Steel Wool Pads
Small detail brushes with dimensions ranging from ¼ inch and up, are great for getting into the nooks and crannies of fixtures, grout lines, and other hard-to-reach places that need precision cleaning. Include a wire brush for scrubbing oven racks, and very fine grit steel wool pads for delicate, yet effective, scouring.
Paper Towels
Paper towels help with quick cleanups, wiping up spills and drying surfaces. They’re handy for tasks where you need disposable, absorbent cloths to ensure a clean finish.
Soft Scrub with Bleach
For tackling tough grease and grime, especially in kitchens, I highly recommend Soft Scrub with bleach. It effectively cuts through grease while also sanitizing surfaces, making it a valuable addition to your cleaning arsenal. Make sure to clean off the cleaning product residue after this, or any other cleaning product.
Mold and Mildew Remover
Bathrooms and damp areas can often harbor mold and mildew. A dedicated remover will help ensure these areas are not just clean, but also safe and healthy for the next occupants. Vinegar and bleach are good, affordable go-tos when mildew is present.
Oven Cleaner
Range tops and ovens accumulate grease and burnt-on food over time. A strong oven cleaner is essential to get this tough job done efficiently.
Degreaser
For kitchens, especially areas around the stove and countertops, a powerful degreaser is a must. Choose one that can cut through grease effectively and handle the heavy-duty grime found in these areas.
Goo Gone or Similar
Sticky residues from tape, stickers, or labels can be a nightmare to remove. A product like Goo Gone is essential for dissolving these adhesives without damaging the surface underneath.
The Pink Stuff Putty Cleaner
For tough stains on various surfaces, The Pink Stuff putty cleaner is versatile and effective. It’s great for removing grime, rust, and other stubborn marks that are difficult to remove using regular cleaning product.
Previously Washed Recycled Surgical Rags
Recycled surgical rags are an excellent choice for cleaning, because they don’t leave streaks. Wash them before using them in a clean; otherwise, they will shed and leave lint everywhere.
Hard Water Remover
To deal with the calcification and stains left by hard water, a dedicated hard water remover is essential. It will help you tackle stubborn scale build-up in faucets, shower heads, and other fixtures.
Disinfectant Spray
To ensure the space is hygienic for the next resident, a powerful disinfectant—especially for high-touch areas like light switches, door handles, and bathroom fixtures—helps do the job.
In summary, a well-stocked cleaning caddy is the foundation of a successful move-out clean. Each tool serves a specific purpose, and together, they ensure that no detail is overlooked. With this arsenal at your side, you’ll be prepared to handle any challenge that comes your way, leaving the space pristine and ready for its new occupant.
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Brandi is now an esthetician in Denver who can be found at https://estichic.com/
