Appliance Cleaning Checklist for Ontario Move-Out
Appliance cleaning is one of the most common sources of security deposit disputes in Ontario — landlords frequently cite uncleaned ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers as justification for deposit deductions, and tenants who don't clean appliances thoroughly before leaving can lose significant amounts from their deposits. Here's exactly what to clean in each appliance at move-out.
Oven
- Interior walls and floor: degrease completely — no baked-on residue
- Oven racks: soak in hot soapy water, scrub, and return
- Glass door: clean interior and exterior
- Burner grates and reflector pans (gas/electric): wash in sink
- Stovetop surface: degrease completely
- Under the stovetop (if lift-up): wipe the drip tray area
Refrigerator
- All shelves: remove and wash in sink
- All drawers (crisper, deli): remove and wash
- Interior walls, top, and floor of fridge and freezer compartments
- Door seals: wipe clean — mould in door seals is a common inspection flag
- Exterior surfaces
Dishwasher
- Interior drum: wipe all surfaces
- Filter: remove, clean, and replace
- Door interior: wipe (food residue accumulates on the inner door surface)
- Exterior: wipe the front panel and handle
Microwave
- Interior walls and ceiling: steam-clean (bowl of water and vinegar heated on high) then wipe
- Rotating plate: wash in sink
- Exterior and handle