Bond Cleaning Guide : DIY Tips & Professional Checklists to Get Your Deposit Back
Moving out soon? Discover our ultimate guide to bond cleaning! Learn the difference between DIY vs. professional cleaners, get a full end-of-lease checklist, and secure your full security deposit today.
Moving out can be a whirlwind of excitement and stress. Between packing boxes, coordinating movers, and setting up utilities for your new home, the last thing you want to worry about is your old place. But there's one final, crucial task that stands between you and your hard-earned bond money: the bond clean.
Also known as an end-of-lease clean or exit clean, this isn't your average weekend tidy-up. It's a top-to-bottom, deep-cleaning marathon designed to return the property to the pristine condition it was in when you first moved in. For tenants, a successful bond cleaning means a full refund of their security deposit. For landlords, it ensures the property is sparkling and ready for its next occupants.
In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about bond cleaning to make your move smoother and your wallet happier.
What Exactly is Bond Cleaning?
Think of a bond clean as a forensic-level clean. Your property manager or landlord will inspect the property against the original condition report, and they will be looking with a fine-toothed comb. A standard clean usually covers surfaces, floors, and a quick wipe-down. A bond clean, however, involves tackling the grime and build-up in every nook and cranny of the property.
This includes areas that are often neglected during regular cleaning, such as:
- Inside ovens and range hoods
- Behind appliances
- Inside cupboards and drawers
- Light fittings and ceiling fans
- Skirting boards and window tracks
- Walls and doors
The goal is simple: leave the property looking so good that the next tenant could move in immediately without having to lift a finger.
DIY Bond Cleaning vs. Hiring a Professional
This is the ultimate question every renter faces. Do you roll up your sleeves and tackle it yourself, or do you call in the professionals? Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your budget, time, and energy levels.
| Feature | DIY Bond Clean | Professional Bond Cleaners |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower upfront cost (just cleaning supplies) | Higher upfront cost (a few hundred dollars) |
| Time | Extremely time-consuming (1-3 full days) | Fast and efficient (a few hours) |
| Effort | Physically demanding and stressful | Zero physical effort required from you |
| Results | May miss spots, leading to disputes | Guaranteed results, often with a "bond back guarantee" |
| Expertise | You might not know what property managers look for | They are experts who know exactly what's required |
The Verdict: If you are short on time, dislike deep cleaning, or simply want the peace of mind that comes with a guarantee, hiring a professional bond cleaning service is a fantastic investment. The cost of a professional clean is often less than the amount you risk losing from your bond if the job isn't done to standard.
Your Ultimate Bond Cleaning Checklist
Whether you're going DIY or want to know what to expect from a professional service, this checklist covers the essentials.
Throughout the Property
- Wipe down all walls, skirting boards, and doors to remove marks and scuffs.
- Clean light switches and power points.
- Dust and clean all light fittings.
- Clean ceiling fans and air conditioning units/filters.
- Clean inside all windows, including sills and tracks.
- Vacuum and mop all hard floors.
- Professionally steam clean carpets (this is often a requirement in lease agreements).
Kitchen
- The Oven: This is the big one! Clean the oven interior, racks, grill, and glass door (inside and out) until they shine.
- The Stovetop: Remove all grime and burnt-on food from the cooktop.
- The Range Hood: Degrease the filters and wipe down the entire unit.
- Cupboards & Drawers: Empty, wipe clean inside and out, including the tops.
- Sink & Taps: Clean and polish the sink, drain, and taps, removing any soap scum or limescale.
- Benchtops & Splashback: Wipe down and ensure they are free of grease and stains.
- Dishwasher: Clean the filter and wipe the interior and exterior.
Bathrooms
- Shower: Scrub tiles, grout, and the shower screen to remove all soap scum and mould.
- Bathtub: Clean the tub, taps, and plug area.
- Toilet: Clean the bowl, seat, lid, and behind the toilet thoroughly.
- Vanity & Sink: Clean the sink, taps, and wipe out all cupboards and drawers.
- Mirror: Polish to a streak-free shine.
- Exhaust Fan: Dust and clean the fan cover.
Bedrooms & Living Areas
- Clean inside all wardrobes, shelves, and drawers.
- Dust and wipe down all surfaces.
- Ensure all mirrors are polished.
Choosing the Right Bond Cleaning Service
If you decide to go with a professional, don't just pick the cheapest option. To protect your bond, look for:
- A Bond Back Guarantee: This is non-negotiable. It means the company will return (free of charge) to fix any issues identified by your property manager.
- Positive Reviews: Check Google and other review platforms to see what past customers have said.
- Clear Inclusions: Get a detailed quote that lists exactly what is and isn't included in the clean. Common extras include carpet cleaning, pest control, and cleaning blinds.
- Insurance: Ensure the company is fully insured to cover any accidental damage.
A proper bond cleaning is your final act of responsibility as a tenant and your ticket to a stress-free move and a full bond refund. By being thorough and deciding whether a DIY approach or a professional service is right for you, you can end your lease on a high note and step confidently into your new home. Happy moving