Moving house: what to clean when leaving or moving into a rental
When you move, the cleaning that counts is the one visible at the inspection: stained upholstery, marked mattresses, rugs that smell and a terrace green with algae. That is what the landlord or the next tenant notices first.
If you are moving out
- The landlord's sofa and chairs: stains on upholstery are the most common complaint; cleaning costs from €20 per chair and €40 per sofa
- The home's mattresses: €30 each, with anti-mite treatment
- Rugs and fitted carpet: from €10/m², €35 minimum order
- Terrace, balcony and patio: algae and stains outside are also compared with the starting condition
Take photos after the cleaning: they are the best proof of the state you handed the home back in.
If you are moving in
Mattresses and sofas used by other people build up sweat, dust mites and odours you cannot see. Before putting on your own bedding, have the mattress cleaned (see how much mattress cleaning costs and dust mites in the mattress). With the home still empty, it is also the easiest moment to do rugs and carpet.
If you are the landlord
Between one tenant and the next, a deep clean of the upholstery and the outside helps you rent faster and with better photos. For the facade and exterior, see why washing the facade adds value.
How much a typical package costs
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 3-seat sofa | €55 |
| 2 mattresses | €60 |
| Living-room rug 6 m² | €60 |
| Total | €175 |
Guide prices, no VAT added, paid at the end. The exterior (patio, terrace) is priced separately, per square metre. See also how much rug cleaning costs.
How to book around a move
Book a few days ahead, because moving dates tend to cluster at the end of the month. Interior work is done in Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, Matosinhos, Maia and Gondomar; exterior across Greater Porto. Get the price in 60 seconds, or ask from the mattress cleaning page.