Kitchen Cleaning for End of Tenancy in London

During a move-out inspection, the kitchen gets extra attention. Why? It’s where the most build-up happens—grease, grime, and food stains. Agents and landlords cheque every corner, not just the obvious spots.

Here’s what’s usually on their checklist:

Inside the oven and stove

Rangehood filters and fan

Sink, taps, and drains

Inside and outside of all cupboards and drawers

Benchtops, splash backs, and flooring

Real estate agents rely on a detailed checklist during inspections. They look for anything that could cause complaints from the next tenant or cost the landlord extra cleaning fees.

To pass the kitchen inspection, focus on the areas you might forget—like under appliances or behind the sink. Use a flashlight to spot grease, and cheque for any lingering smells.

Tip: If your kitchen looks and smells fresh, and every surface is spotless, you’re far more likely to tick all the boxes and protect your deposit.

Degreasing That Works

Start with warm, soapy water to loosen grease. For tougher spots, use a degreaser spray or make a paste with baking soda and water. Let it sit, then wipe clean.

Know Your Surface

Glass tops need soft cloths—avoid anything abrasive. Use a scraper designed for glass if needed.

Metal burners can handle tougher scrubs. Remove and soak them, then brush off debris.

Protect the Finish

Always use non-scratch pads. Avoid harsh chemicals on delicate surfaces. A quick daily wipe can keep buildup from becoming a problem.

Rangehood & Filter Degreasing

Cleaning your rangehood and filter is essential for a fresh kitchen and a successful inspection.

Cleaning Filters

Take the filters out and soak them in hot, soapy water. After soaking, scrub away any remaining grease or dirt.

Remove Oil and Dust

Wipe down the rangehood’s exterior and inside, paying close attention to built-up oil and dust. A degreaser works well for stubborn residue.

Natural vs Chemical

Natural degreasers, like a mix of vinegar and water, are great for light cleaning. For heavy-duty grease, a commercial degreaser may be necessary.

Cupboards and drawers can hold hidden dirt that inspectors will notice.

Wipe Inside Shelves

Start by emptying the cupboards and wiping down all shelves with a damp cloth to remove dust and crumbs. For stubborn spots, use a mild cleaner.

Remove Crumbs, Stains, and Grease

Pay attention to corners and edges where crumbs and grease tend to build up. Use a degreaser for any oily residues.

Clean Handles & Outer Surfaces

Don’t forget the handles and outer surfaces. Wipe them with a cleaner that suits the material, such as wood polish or all-purpose cleaner for metal or plastic.

To tackle limescale, soak a cloth in vinegar and wrap it around affected areas. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes before scrubbing away the buildup.

Polishing Chrome Fixtures

Use a soft cloth and a chrome cleaner to polish taps and fixtures. This will give them a nice shine and remove water spots.

Unclogging & Deodorizing the Drain

Pour a natural drain cleaner, like baking soda and vinegar, into the drain to remove clogs and neutralize odours. Rinse with hot water to clear it out.

Best Products for Kitchen Cleaning

When cleaning your kitchen, the right products can make a huge difference.

What Pros Use vs What’s Available in Shops

Professionals often use industrial-grade cleaners that aren’t always available to the public. However, store-bought products can still get the job done for regular cleaning.

Eco-Friendly & Pet-Safe Options

For a more sustainable approach, look for eco-friendly and pet-safe cleaners. Natural products like   vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice work well for most cleaning tasks.

Tools That Make a Difference

Good-quality tools can make cleaning faster and more effective. Invest in scrapers for tough grease, brushes for corners, and microfiber cloths to avoid streaks on surfaces.

How to Use Vinegar & Baking Soda Vinegar and baking soda are powerful when combined. Use vinegar to clean surfaces and eliminate odours. Baking soda helps scrub tough stains and grease. Together, they make a great all-purpose cleaner.

Lemon Juice for Cutting Grease

Lemon juice is a natural degreaser that works well for stovetops, countertops, and other greasy spots. Its acidity breaks down oils while leaving a fresh scent.

Good for Sensitive Households or Allergies

These natural alternatives are gentle on the environment and perfect for households with allergies or sensitive skin. They avoid harsh chemicals and fragrances.

Take Photos Before & After Cleaning

Taking photos before and after your cleaning is a smart move.

Why It’s Smart to Take Pictures

It provides a clear record of your work, showing the condition of the kitchen.

Helps Resolve Disputes

If any issues arise during the inspection, photos can help settle disagreements with landlords or agents.

Great for Sharing Proof with Landlords

Photos serve as solid evidence that the kitchen was cleaned to the required standards, making it easier to get your bond back.