In Singapore’s rental market, cleanliness at the end of a lease is non-negotiable. Whether you are moving out of an HDB flat, a condo, or a landed home, landlords and property agents expect the unit to be spotless before they release your deposit. Many tenants lose money simply because they overlooked basic cleaning details.
To help you avoid this, we’ve compiled the top 10 end of tenancy cleaning do’s and don’ts in Singapore. Following these guidelines will save you stress, protect your deposit, and make handover day much smoother.
✅ The Do’s
1. Do Check Your Lease Agreement
Your first step should always be to review the tenancy contract. Some landlords specifically require curtain dry-cleaning, air-conditioning servicing, or even repainting. Others may provide a handover checklist. Skipping this step often leads to last-minute surprises.
By knowing the expectations upfront, you can plan your cleaning schedule and budget more effectively.
2. Do Start Cleaning Early
End of tenancy cleaning is rarely a one-day job. Grease in the kitchen, soap scum in bathrooms, and dust in hard-to-reach corners all take time to tackle. Start at least two to three days before handover. Spread tasks by room — day one for the kitchen, day two for bathrooms, and day three for bedrooms and living areas.
Planning ahead also leaves time for small repairs, like patching nail holes or replacing burnt-out bulbs.
3. Do Use the Right Cleaning Products
Using the wrong chemicals can damage surfaces and cost you more in repairs. Marble countertops, parquet flooring, and stainless steel fixtures are common in Singapore homes, and all require special care. Stick to pH-neutral cleaners, microfiber cloths, and non-abrasive sponges.
For everyday safe cleaning practices, see our guide on How to Maintain a Clean and Healthy Home with Kids and Pets.
4. Do Clean Appliances Thoroughly
Landlords and agents always check appliances. Ovens, microwaves, refrigerators, and washing machines need to be cleaned inside and out. Remove trays, degrease exhaust filters, and sanitize rubber seals where mold often grows.
For stubborn sticky marks, check out our blog on How to Get Rid of Sticker Residue — the same principles apply when cleaning appliance surfaces.
5. Do Schedule a Final Walkthrough
After cleaning, do a slow walkthrough as if you were the landlord. Open every cabinet, check window tracks, flip light switches, and inspect mirrors for streaks. A methodical review helps catch details you might otherwise miss, such as fingerprints on doors or dust behind curtains.
❌ The Don’ts
6. Don’t Skip Hidden Spots
Agents are trained to inspect every corner. Skirting boards, ceiling fans, light fixtures, and air-conditioning vents are common problem areas. Dust in these places can give the impression that the whole unit hasn’t been cleaned properly.
7. Don’t Rush the Process
Trying to clean an entire unit the night before handover is stressful and ineffective. Rushing leads to missed spots and poor results, which can cost part of your deposit. Break cleaning into smaller, manageable tasks instead.
For larger homes, it may even make sense to hire professionals. A team can complete what would take you 10 hours in just a few.
8. Don’t Ignore Outdoor Areas
Balconies, service yards, and entryways are often forgotten. Yet these are visible areas landlords check first. Sweep and mop floors, clean sliding door tracks, and wipe balcony railings. Mold or leaves in these spaces can create a poor impression even if the interior is spotless.
For a seasonal perspective, read our Chinese New Year Spring Cleaning Guide — many of the same steps apply when refreshing outdoor areas.
9. Don’t Use Harsh Chemicals Blindly
Bleach poured directly onto tiles or acidic cleaners on stainless steel can cause permanent stains. Once damage is done, you may be responsible for replacement. Always test on a small hidden area first.
Using eco-friendly cleaners not only protects your surfaces but also leaves the property smelling fresh for inspection.
10. Don’t Risk Your Deposit — Get Help if Needed
The most expensive mistake tenants make is underestimating the cleaning required. A professional team brings the tools and experience to deliver a handover-ready unit.
When in doubt, protect your finances by booking a professional end of tenancy cleaning service that meets all landlord requirements.
And if you’re moving into a new property, consider a move in cleaning service so you can start fresh in a hygienic environment.
Quick Recap: Top 10 Do’s and Don’ts
Do: read your lease, plan early, use the right products, clean appliances, and schedule a walkthrough.
Don’t: skip hidden spots, rush, ignore balconies, misuse chemicals, or risk your deposit.
Preparing for a Smooth Handover
End of tenancy cleaning in Singapore is more than dusting and mopping — it’s about meeting strict inspection standards and protecting your money. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can minimize stress and maximize your deposit return.
For a worry-free handover, book our end of tenancy cleaning service in Singapore today. Our trained cleaners ensure every detail is handled, so you can focus on your next chapter.
