Melbourne’s bond End of tenancy cleaning scene is a minefield for tenants. 9 out of 10 deposits are lost due to avoidable mistakes. Don’t let your bond go up in smoke. Here’s how to clean your rental property like a pro.
COMMON BOND CLEANING MELBOURNE MISTAKES TENANTS SHOULD AVOID
MISSING THE SMALL STUFF
You think a quick mop and wipe will cut it? Think again. Bond cleaners find hidden grime in places you never look. Here’s what to check:
– **Baseboards**: Dust and debris collect here. Use a vacuum or damp cloth.
– **Light switches and outlets**: Wipe with a damp cloth.
– **Behind furniture**: Vacuum and wipe down.
– **Under beds and mattresses**: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment.
– **Inside ovens and fridges**: Wipe spills and wipe down shelves.
– **Inside cabinets and drawers**: Wipe down and organize.
FAILING TO REMOVE ODOURS
Food odours are the #1 reason bonds are lost. Here’s how to tackle them:
– **Deep clean stovetops**: Scrub with baking soda and vinegar.
– **Wash dishes and load the dishwasher**: Run it twice.
– **Clean the microwave**: Wipe down the inside and run a cycle with vinegar.
– **Vacuum and wash carpets**: Use an enzyme cleaner.
– **Open windows and use fans**: Air out the property.
– **Use baking soda**: Sprinkle in problem areas and let it sit overnight.
IGNORING THE KITCHEN
The kitchen is the bond cleaner’s playground. Here’s what to focus on:
– **Grease traps**: Clean with a grease-cutting cleaner.
– **Sink and drain**: Scrub with a degreaser.
– **Oven**: Clean inside and out.
– **Fridge**: Wipe down shelves and clean the interior.
– **Cabinets and drawers**: Wipe down and organize.
NEGLECTING THE BATHROOM
Bathrooms are a hotspot for bond cleaners. Here’s how to make them shine:
– **Shower and bathtub**: Scrub with a degreaser.
– **Toilet**: Clean inside and out, including the base.
– **Sink and drain**: Scrub with a degreaser.
– **Mirrors and glass**: Wipe down with a glass cleaner.
– **Tiles**: Clean with a tile cleaner.
– **Cabinets and drawers**: Wipe down and organize.
FORGETTING ABOUT THE BEDROOM
The bedroom is often overlooked. Here’s what to focus on:
– **Dust and vacuum**: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment.
– **Wash bedding**: Wash sheets, pillowcases, and duvets.
– **Clean under the bed**: Use a vacuum or damp cloth.
– **Wipe down furniture**: Use a damp cloth.
– **Dust electronics**: Wipe down TVs, computers, and other electronics.
UNDER-ESTIMATING THE LIVING AREAS
Living areas are where bond cleaners find the most grime. Here’s how to tackle them:
– **Dust and vacuum**: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment.
– **Wipe down furniture**: Use a damp cloth.
– **Clean windows**: Wipe down with a glass cleaner.
– **Wash curtains**: Use a mild detergent.
– **Sweep and mop floors**: Use a degreaser.
IGNORING THE OUTSIDE
The outside of your rental property is just as important. Here’s what to focus on:
– **Wash the exterior**: Use a pressure washer or a hose.
– **Clean the gutters**: Remove leaves and debris.
– **Wash the windows**: Wipe down with a glass cleaner.
– **Sweep the porch and pathways**: Use a broom or a leaf blower.
NOT DOCUMENTING YOUR CLEANING
Bond cleaners need proof of your cleaning efforts. Here’s how to document your work:
– **Take before and after photos**: Show the difference.
– **Keep receipts**: For any cleaning products or services you use.
– **Keep a cleaning log**: Note what you cleaned and when.
UNDERSTIMATING THE COST
Bond cleaning can be expensive. Here’s how to budget for it:
– **Get quotes**: From multiple bond cleaning services.
– **Compare prices**: Look for the best deal.
– **Ask about packages**: Some services offer discounts for multiple rooms.
– **Consider DIY**: If you’re comfortable, you can save money by doing it yourself.
HIRING THE WRONG BOND CLEANER
Not all bond cleaners are created equal. Here’s how to find the right one:
– **Check reviews**: Look for positive feedback from other tenants.
– **Ask for references**: Contact past clients.
– **Get a written contract**: Make sure you understand the terms.
– **Ask about their process**: Make sure they’ll clean everything thoroughly.
COMMON BOND CLEANING MELBOURNE MISTAKES TENANTS SHOULD AVOID
KEY TAKEAWAYS
– **Clean thoroughly**: Bond cleaners look for hidden grime.
– **Remove odours**: Food odours are a major issue.
– **Focus on the kitchen and bathroom**: These are the bond cleaner’s playground.
– **Don’t forget the bedroom and living areas**: These are often overlooked.
– **Clean the outside**: The exterior of your rental property is just as important.
– **Document your cleaning**: Bond cleaners need proof of your efforts.
– **Budget for bond cleaning**: It can be expensive.
– **Hire the right bond cleaner**: Not all bond cleaners are created equal.
NEXT STEPS
– **Start cleaning**: Don’t wait until the last minute.
– **Get quotes**: From multiple bond cleaning services.
– **Hire a bond cleaner**: Once you’ve found the right one.
– **Document your cleaning**: Keep receipts and photos.
– **Review your contract**: Make sure you understand the terms.
Don’t let your bond go up in smoke. Clean your rental property like a pro and avoid these common mistakes.
