Once you’ve signed a new lease, packed your boxes, and loaded them into a moving truck, you might assume that your work at the old place is done. Unfortunately, before you can start focusing on unpacking and turning your new apartment into a home, you’ll need to spend some time cleaning your old apartment.

Be sure to check with your old leasing office to see if they have a cleaning checklist—different complexes have different move-out requirements, and you’ll want to ensure the unit is up to their standards to avoid losing your security deposit or incurring any additional charges. With that being said, here are some tips for how to deep clean your apartment before moving out:

• Make sure that all cabinets and drawers have been cleaned out, then remove any liners you may have installed and wipe down the drawers or shelves for dust and other residue.
• Remove any nails and screws from the walls and ceilings and fill the holes they left behind.
• Dust all surfaces, including countertops, ledges, and ceiling fans.
• Clean the walls, including the light switches, outlets, and baseboards.
• Wipe down the windows, mirrors, and faucets to remove any spots.
• Sweep and mop the floors.
• Vacuum the carpets (if there are any stains, you may want to consider hiring a professional carpet cleaning company).
• Clean out the refrigerator, removing the shelves and drawers as necessary.
• Wipe down the interior and exterior of the microwave, oven, and dishwasher.
• Scrub the toilet.
• Clean the shower or bathtub to ensure there’s no mold, mildew, or soap scum left behind.