Moving into a new home or saying goodbye to an old one in Amsterdam is always exciting, but let’s be honest—it’s also stressful. Between packing, organizing paperwork, and arranging transportation, the last thing most people want to worry about is scrubbing ovens or washing windows. Yet, cleaning is one of the most important steps in any move. Landlords in Amsterdam are known for being strict when it comes to handing back rental deposits, and new tenants expect to walk into a spotless apartment. That’s where move-in and move-out cleaning services come in.

In a city like Amsterdam, where rentals are competitive and property standards are high, professional cleaning isn’t just a luxury—it’s often a necessity. Whether you’re an expat leaving an apartment after a short stay or a family moving into a new home, choosing the right cleaning service can make the process smoother and less stressful. But how do you find the best cleaners in a city with so many options? And how do you know you’re getting value for your money?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about move-in and move-out cleaning in Amsterdam: what it involves, why it matters, and how to choose the right professionals. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to ensure your move is as hassle-free as possible.

2. What is Move-in Move-out Cleaning?

At first glance, you might think move-in and move-out cleaning is just another form of house cleaning. But it’s much more than a quick vacuum and dusting. Unlike regular cleaning, which focuses on keeping a home tidy, move-related cleaning is a deep and detailed process designed to restore a property to its original condition. Think of it as pressing the reset button for your home.

For example:

• Regular cleaning might mean wiping the kitchen counters.
• Move-out cleaning means degreasing the oven, scrubbing behind the refrigerator, and polishing every cabinet inside and out.

When moving out, the goal is to leave the property in such good condition that landlords have no reason to withhold part of your deposit. When moving in, it’s about peace of mind—knowing you’re starting fresh in a clean and sanitized space.

This service often includes:

• Intensive bathroom cleaning (tiles, grout, shower heads, mirrors, toilets)
• Deep cleaning of kitchen appliances (oven, stove, dishwasher, fridge)
• Washing and polishing windows
• Vacuuming and mopping all floors
• Wiping walls, doors, and baseboards

In short, move-in/move-out cleaning is not about surface-level cleanliness; it’s about resetting the home to a standard that feels brand new.

3. Why Move-in/Move-out Cleaning Matters in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has a unique rental culture compared to many cities. Here’s why this type of cleaning is especially important here:

• Strict landlord expectations: Most tenancy contracts in Amsterdam clearly state that the property must be returned in the same condition it was rented. Even a small stain or uncleaned area can result in deductions from your deposit.
• High security deposits: Deposits in Amsterdam are usually equal to one or two months’ rent. That’s a significant amount of money to lose because of cleaning issues.
• Fast rental turnover: With so many people moving in and out due to the city’s international job market, properties need to be prepared quickly for the next tenant. Landlords prefer tenants who leave a spotless apartment behind.
• Peace of mind for new tenants: Nobody wants to move into a dusty, greasy, or stained apartment. A professional cleaning service ensures a hygienic, welcoming environment from day one.

Imagine moving into your dream canal-side apartment only to find mold in the bathroom tiles or grease in the oven. Not exactly a fresh start, right? This is why move-in cleaning is equally important—it guarantees a healthy, comfortable living environment from the first day.

4. Key Services Included in Move-in Move-out Cleaning

So, what exactly do professional cleaners cover during move-in or move-out cleaning? While each company may offer slightly different packages, most services include a comprehensive checklist. Here are the key areas:

• Kitchen deep cleaning:
  • Degreasing stovetops and oven racks
  • Cleaning inside cabinets and drawers
  • Disinfecting sinks and countertops
  • Scrubbing the fridge, dishwasher, and microwave
• Bathroom sanitation:
  • Removing limescale from faucets and showerheads
  • Scrubbing tiles and grout
  • Polishing mirrors and glass
  • Disinfecting toilets and bathtubs
• Floors, walls, and windows:
  • Vacuuming and mopping all floors
  • Spot-cleaning stains on walls
  • Washing windows inside and out
  • Wiping baseboards, doors, and handles
• Appliances and fixtures:
  • Cleaning light switches, ceiling fans, and vents
  • Wiping radiators and heating units
  • Dusting built-in wardrobes

The goal is to cover every corner of the home—including those often overlooked during regular cleaning. If you’ve ever pulled out a fridge and seen the mess hiding behind it, you know why this service is so valuable.

5. How Move-in Move-out Cleaning Differs from Deep Cleaning

People often confuse deep cleaning with move-in/move-out cleaning, and while they overlap, they’re not identical. Deep cleaning is usually done while people are still living in the home. It focuses on tackling dirt and grime that builds up over time—things you don’t address in weekly cleanings.

Move-in/move-out cleaning, however, is much more thorough and often more time-consuming. Here’s a quick comparison:

Deep Cleaning	Move-in/Move-out Cleaning
Done while living in the home	Done before or after tenancy
Focuses on neglected areas (under furniture, behind appliances)	Covers every single surface, including walls, ceilings, and fixtures
Improves comfort and hygiene	Restores property to “like-new” condition
Optional for most households	Required for deposit refund / moving standard

The main difference lies in intent. Deep cleaning makes your current living space more comfortable, while move-related cleaning is about meeting rental standards and preparing a fresh start.

6. Challenges of Move-in/Move-out Cleaning in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has its own set of unique challenges when it comes to move-related cleaning. It’s not just about dusting and vacuuming—it’s about working within a housing market that’s fast-paced, competitive, and filled with older apartments that come with their own quirks.

1. Tight rental schedules
Moving dates in Amsterdam are often strict. Tenants must leave the apartment spotless by the agreed day, as new tenants are usually lined up immediately. That means there’s little time for a leisurely clean—you often have just a few hours between moving out your belongings and handing over the keys.

2. Old vs. new apartments
Amsterdam is famous for its beautiful canal houses and historic buildings. While charming, these properties often have harder-to-clean elements like high ceilings, narrow staircases, and older flooring. On the other hand, modern apartments may come with built-in appliances that require careful attention to meet landlord standards.

3. High demand for professional cleaners
Because so many people are moving in and out—expats, students, professionals—the demand for cleaners is high. This can make it difficult to find availability, especially during peak moving months like August and September. Booking last minute can mean either paying premium prices or being stuck without professional help.

4. Environmental challenges
Hard water in Amsterdam leads to limescale buildup in bathrooms and kitchens, which can be tough to remove without the right products. Additionally, the city’s rainy weather often means mud and dirt get tracked indoors, leaving stubborn stains on carpets and floors.

These challenges highlight why hiring professional cleaners is often the smarter choice. They know the quirks of Amsterdam homes, have the right products for Dutch water and flooring, and understand the expectations of local landlords.

7. How to Choose the Best Cleaners in Amsterdam

So, you’ve decided to hire a move-in/move-out cleaning service. Great choice—but how do you make sure you’re picking the right one? Amsterdam has dozens of cleaning companies, and not all are created equal. Here are the main factors to consider:

1. Research and reviews
Start with online research. Look at Google reviews, Trustpilot ratings, or local expat forums. Don’t just focus on star ratings—read the detailed feedback to see if people mention things like punctuality, thoroughness, and deposit returns.

2. Certifications and insurance
Always check if the company is insured. If something gets broken during cleaning, you want to be covered. Some professional cleaners also carry certifications that show they use eco-friendly products or follow industry standards.

3. Experience with expats and rentals
Amsterdam has a huge expat community. If you’re one of them, it helps to choose a cleaner who understands the local rental market and can provide documentation (like invoices) in English. Companies with rental cleaning experience also know the exact standards landlords expect.

4. Transparent pricing
Be wary of cleaners who give vague quotes. A reliable service will either offer a flat rate based on the size of your property or provide a detailed hourly estimate. Transparency is key to avoiding hidden charges later.

5. Communication and flexibility
Moving is stressful enough. You want cleaners who respond quickly, confirm appointments clearly, and can adjust if your moving schedule changes slightly.

Think of it this way: hiring cleaners is like choosing a moving company. You wouldn’t hand your furniture over to just anyone, so don’t trust your deposit refund to a random cleaner either. Take the time to vet them properly.

8. Top Qualities of a Reliable Cleaning Service

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, how do you know if a cleaning service is truly reliable? Look for these qualities:

• Punctuality: Time is critical during moves. A professional cleaning team should arrive exactly when scheduled and finish within the promised timeframe.
• Professionalism: From uniforms to communication style, professionalism shows they take their job seriously.
• Thoroughness: The difference between a surface clean and a deep move-out clean is in the details. Reliable cleaners won’t cut corners—they’ll scrub the grout, clean behind appliances, and check every nook and cranny.
• Transparent pricing: No one likes hidden fees. A good company provides an upfront quote with a clear breakdown of what’s included.
• Eco-friendly products: More and more Amsterdam residents prefer eco-conscious services. Cleaners who use biodegradable, non-toxic products aren’t just helping the planet—they’re protecting your health too.
• Insurance coverage: Mistakes happen. The best companies carry liability insurance in case something is damaged during cleaning.

A reliable cleaning service is like a safety net. They give you peace of mind that your old apartment will pass inspection and your new one will be move-in ready.

9. Where to Search for Move-in/Move-out Cleaners in Amsterdam

Finding cleaners in Amsterdam isn’t difficult—the challenge is finding the right ones. Here’s where to start your search:

• Online platforms: Websites like Google Maps, Trustpilot, and even Facebook Marketplace often list cleaning services with reviews. Specialized expat sites like Expatica or IamExpat also feature service recommendations.
• Local agencies: There are cleaning agencies that specialize in move-in/move-out cleaning. They often work directly with landlords and property managers, which can be an advantage.
• Word of mouth: Ask colleagues, neighbors, or other expats. Personal recommendations are often more reliable than online ads.
• Expat communities: Online expat groups (for example, on Facebook) are full of people who’ve recently moved and can recommend services they used.

The key is to cross-check any service you find. Don’t just trust a slick website—verify reviews, request a clear quote, and ask if they’ve worked with landlords in your area before.

10. Average Costs of Move-in/Move-out Cleaning in Amsterdam

Cost is often the biggest deciding factor when hiring cleaners. But how much should you expect to pay in Amsterdam? Prices vary depending on property size, level of cleaning needed, and whether you choose hourly or flat rates.

1. Hourly rates:

• Most professional cleaners in Amsterdam charge between €25–€40 per hour per cleaner.
• For larger jobs, cleaning companies often send a team of 2–3 cleaners to finish faster.

2. Flat rates (based on apartment size):

• Studio or one-bedroom: €120–€200
• Two-bedroom: €200–€300
• Three-bedroom or larger: €300–€500+

3. Additional costs:

• Window cleaning: €50–€100 depending on size and number
• Carpet cleaning: €25–€40 per room
• Appliance deep cleaning (oven/fridge): €20–€50 each

4. Factors that affect pricing:

• Condition of the property (neglected homes take longer)
• Special requests (eco-friendly products, steam cleaning)
• Last-minute bookings (often come with a surcharge)

On average, you can expect to spend anywhere from €200–€400 for a standard move-out clean in Amsterdam. While that might sound like a lot, compare it to the cost of losing your deposit—often thousands of euros. Suddenly, it looks more like an investment than an expense.

11. Tips to Save Money on Move-in/Move-out Cleaning

Moving is already expensive—between movers, deposits, and utility transfers, costs add up quickly. So, it’s no surprise that many people look for ways to cut down on cleaning expenses. The good news? You can still hire professional cleaners without breaking the bank. Here’s how:

1. Book early
The closer you are to your moving date, the higher the prices may be. Cleaning companies often charge more for last-minute bookings because of the pressure on their schedule. Planning a few weeks ahead can secure you better rates.

2. Compare quotes
Don’t just settle on the first company you find. Request quotes from at least three different services. Make sure the quotes are detailed so you can compare exactly what’s included. Sometimes a slightly higher flat rate can be cheaper in the long run if it covers everything you need.

3. Go for package deals
Some cleaning companies in Amsterdam offer package deals that include extra services like window cleaning or carpet steam cleaning at a reduced rate. Bundling is often cheaper than paying for add-ons separately.

4. Do some prep work yourself
Professional cleaners charge for their time, so the less clutter they have to move around, the faster they can get the job done. Pack all your belongings before the cleaners arrive and consider handling light tasks like dusting shelves or removing trash.

5. Focus on what landlords check most
If you’re on a tight budget, prioritize the kitchen and bathroom. These are the rooms landlords inspect most closely and where cleanliness matters most for deposit refunds.

6. Check for loyalty discounts
If you’ve hired the same company before, ask if they offer a returning-customer discount. Some also provide reduced rates if you refer friends.

With a smart strategy, you can keep costs down while still ensuring your apartment meets the high standards Amsterdam landlords expect.

12. Common Mistakes Tenants Make When Hiring Cleaners

Hiring cleaners seems straightforward, but many tenants make avoidable mistakes that cost them money, time, or even their deposit. Here are the most common pitfalls:

1. Choosing the cheapest option
It’s tempting to go for the lowest price, but cheap services often cut corners. A €100 cleaning might look attractive, but if it leaves streaky windows and dirty grout, you could lose €1,500 from your deposit.

2. Not checking what’s included
Some companies advertise “move-out cleaning” but don’t actually include essentials like oven or fridge cleaning. Always request a full checklist before confirming.

3. Waiting until the last minute
Moving day is chaotic. Leaving cleaning arrangements to the final week can mean either overpaying or not finding availability.

4. Ignoring reviews
A slick website doesn’t guarantee quality. Always check independent reviews to see how reliable a company is in practice.

5. Forgetting about documentation
Many landlords require proof that professional cleaners were hired. If the company doesn’t provide invoices or service confirmation, you could run into problems later.

6. Overlooking insurance
Accidents happen. If cleaners break a mirror or scratch the floor and they’re uninsured, you’ll be stuck with the bill.

Avoiding these mistakes comes down to one thing: doing your homework. Ten minutes of research can save you hundreds of euros and a major headache.

13. Benefits of Hiring Professional Cleaners Instead of DIY

You might be wondering: why not just clean the place yourself? After all, it’s cheaper. While DIY works for some, there are major advantages to hiring professionals:

1. Time-saving
Moving involves dozens of tasks—from paperwork to packing. Spending 8–10 hours scrubbing an apartment is exhausting. Professionals can often do the job in half the time, freeing you up for other priorities.

2. Better results
Let’s be honest—most of us don’t own industrial-grade cleaning products or steam machines. Professional cleaners bring specialized tools and techniques that leave the property spotless.

3. Stress reduction
Moving is already stressful. Having experts handle the cleaning takes one major burden off your plate. It’s one less thing to worry about during an overwhelming time.

4. Higher chance of deposit refund
Landlords are picky. Professionals know exactly what they look for and can ensure the property meets those standards, increasing your chances of getting your deposit back in full.

5. Health benefits
Cleaners use professional disinfectants and limescale removers that don’t just make things look nice—they make your new or old home more hygienic and safe.

Think of professional cleaning as an insurance policy: it protects your money, your time, and your sanity during one of life’s most stressful events.

14. Lawrenclean.nl – Why It Stands Out in Amsterdam

Among the many cleaning services available, Lawrenclean.nl has built a strong reputation in Amsterdam for move-in and move-out cleaning. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Specialized services for movers: Unlike general cleaning companies, Lawrenclean focuses specifically on move-in/move-out jobs. Their teams are trained to meet landlord expectations and handle the toughest cleaning challenges.
• Experience with landlords and agencies: They know what property managers in Amsterdam look for, which means fewer disputes about deposits.
• Transparent pricing: No hidden fees, just clear rates based on property size and condition.
• Eco-friendly products: Lawrenclean uses environmentally friendly solutions that are tough on grime but gentle on your health and the planet.
• Customer testimonials: Past clients consistently praise their professionalism, punctuality, and thoroughness. Many expats mention stress-free moves thanks to their services.

When choosing cleaners, reputation matters. With a company like Lawrenclean.nl, you’re not just getting a cleaner apartment—you’re buying peace of mind.

Conclusion

Moving is one of life’s biggest transitions, and while it’s exciting, it also comes with stress and expenses. One thing you don’t want to overlook is cleaning. In Amsterdam, where landlords have strict standards and deposits are high, move-in/move-out cleaning isn’t just a formality—it’s essential.

The key takeaways?

• Move-in/move-out cleaning goes far beyond regular cleaning.
• Amsterdam’s housing market makes professional cleaning especially important.
• Choosing the right cleaners requires research, attention to detail, and a focus on transparency.
• Professional services not only save time but also maximize your chances of getting your deposit back.

If you’re looking for a reliable service, Lawrenclean.nl is a trusted name in Amsterdam’s cleaning industry, known for its thoroughness and professionalism.

So, before you hand over the keys or step into your new home, invest in a professional cleaning service. It’s one of the smartest moves you can make for a stress-free transition.

FAQs

1. How long does move-out cleaning take in Amsterdam?
It depends on the size of the property. A one-bedroom apartment usually takes 3–4 hours, while larger homes may require a full day.

2. Do landlords really check cleaning that closely?
Yes! In Amsterdam, landlords are very particular. Even minor issues like dusty blinds or grease in the oven can lead to deposit deductions.

3. Can I just do a deep clean myself instead?
You can, but professional cleaners know exactly what landlords expect and have the right equipment to meet those standards. It’s often worth the investment.

4. When should I book a cleaning service before moving?
Ideally, 4 days –2 weeks before your move-out date to secure availability and avoid last-minute price hikes.

5. Does Lawrenclean.nl only do move-out cleaning?
No, they also handle move-in, deep cleaning, and other specialized services. But they are especially well-known for their move-related cleaning in Amsterdam.