Kitchen Deep Cleaning: Tackling the Most Challenging Room in End of Tenancy Cleans
Would you like to know the #1 cause for deposit deductions in 49% of UK disputes? It's the kitchen. Yes, the kitchen is ground zero for deposit deductions. From grease deposits behind appliances and lingering food odours to neglected ovens and hidden crumbs, tenants miss numerous things when cleaning their kitchens. This room is where shortcuts show, and grime hides in plain sight. Want to secure your full deposit? Roll up your sleeves and get ready for some wall-to-wall, top-to-bottom cleaning. Whether you choose the DIY cleaning path or book a professional, our guide is your no-nonsense roadmap to an immaculate kitchen and a pleasant, hassle-free handover.
Key takeaways
- Kitchens cause most deposit disputes, and deep cleaning prevents deductions of up to £150+.
- Ovens require cleaning racks, doors, fan blades, and carbon buildup.
- Professional cleaners work faster, use top-tier equipment, and provide deposit dispute documentation.
- Clean hard-to-reach areas such as appliances, inside cabinets, grout lines, and drawer linings to perfection.
- Schedule cleaning 2-3 days before move-out and maintain results until the landlord’s final inspection.
- Use adequate cleaning solutions for various surfaces in the kitchen.
- Save time and money by keeping the kitchen in good condition with regular cleaning.
Why do kitchens cause deposit deductions so often?
When it comes to the kitchens, landlords or letting agents don’t resume to a glance over the surfaces—they do assess and expect nothing but immaculate surfaces.
What do landlords thoroughly check?
At the final inspections, landlords will thoroughly examine:
- Inside appliances—ovens, microwaves, fridges, and dishwashers must be grease-free, odourless, and spotless.
- cupboard tops and interiors—there should be no dust, grease, or old food remnants
- Extractor fans and filters—filters clogged with grease or dust will be noted
- Wall tiles and grout--Grease-stained tiles and mouldy grout lines are red flags
- Taps and seals--limescale around taps, grime in sink seals, and mould in silicone edges will raise your landlord’s eyebrow
Most common mistakes
Many tenants believe that they’ve cleaned everything in the kitchen but miss the following:
- Grease, food splatter, and dust build-up behind ovens
- Blackened trays, racks, and oven floors
- Hidden crumbs under appliances, in drawer runners, and behind cupboard kickboards
- Water stains on taps, around the sink, and inside appliances
- Limescale buildup around taps, showerheads, and kettle bases
How much will these cost you?
The kitchen is where tenants lose the most money from their deposits:
- Poorly cleaned oven: £60–£100
- Dirty or smelly fridge: £30–£60
- Grease on extractor fan or cupboards: £40–£70
- Failed general kitchen cleaning:£100–£150+
Tackling challenging kitchen cleaning areas
The oven
The oven is the no.1 culprit in failing kitchen inspection, and it’s thoroughly examined by landlords and letting agents. Here’s how to make your oven spotless:
- Remove and soak interior racks in hot, soapy water—you can use a degreasing solution too. Scrub off difficult grime with a wire brush.
- Built-up grease on fan blades can cause smoke and smells. Clean them with a degreaser and cloth.
- Remove the doors and clean between the glass layers (if possible). Eliminate all burnt-on splatters with an oven cleaner and a scraper.
- Use a professional-grade paste or gel oven cleaner to remove carbon buildup on the base and walls. Allow it to dwell, scrape, and wipe clean.
- never skip cleaning your oven—a dirty one will cause an instant deposit deduction!
The fridge/freezer
No landlord will skip checking out the freezer/fridge. Here’s how to tackle its cleaning:
- Defrost the freezer at least 24 hours before cleaning.
- Use an old toothbrush and soapy water/white vinegar to scrub grime and mould from rubber seals and gaskets—they collect bacteria and odours.
- Remove mould by wiping all internal surfaces, especially corners and behind drawers. Use an antibacterial cleaner and eliminate all signs of black or green spots.
- Neutralize lingering smells with baking soda or lemon juice. Don’t skip the drip tray under the fridge—many foul odours start here.
- leave the doors slightly ajar if the fridge is unplugged. You will avoid mould growth.
Extractor fan & hob
Extractor fan
- Remove and soak the filters in warm water with a degreaser. Lift grease and grime by gently scrubbing and replacing the filters if they are clogged or damaged.
- Use a degreaser or vinegar solution to wipe down the fan hood. Remove any grease buildup on the fan blades to enhance airflow.
Grease traps (if applicable)
Regularly clean grease traps with warm water and dish soap to avoid grease buildup. Alternatively, you can use a specialised degreaser.
Hob
- Use a non-abrasive cleaner to remove food debris from the burners. If the stains are stubborn, use baking soda and water paste.
- For glass or ceramic hobs, use a specialised hob cleaner to restore their shine and eliminate burnt-on marks. To avoid scratching the surface, use a soft cloth.
Splashbacks
Use a degreaser or soapy water to remove grease, food splatters, and stains from the splashbacks. If you have tiles, focus on the grout lines as they collect grease and grime. Use a grout cleaner for best results.
Dishwasher & microwave
Dishwasher
- Limescale removal
Use white vinegar or a commercial descaling solution and run an empty cycle to remove limescale buildup.
- Food traps & filters
Remove and clean the filter now and then. Use hot water to eliminate trapped food particles that cause unpleasant odours and reduce performance.
- Seals and gaskets
Wipe the door seals and gaskets with a damp cloth to prevent mould and grime buildup. See if there are cracks or damage that require further attention.
Microwave
- Interior cleaning
Steam clean the microwave with a bowl of water and some slices of lemon. Heat it for 3-5 minutes; the steam will loosen the food splatters, and you can easily wipe them away.
- Food traps
Remove and clean the turntable from food debris. Use warm, soapy water to wash it.
- Seals & exterior
Use a multi-surface cleaner to wipe down the microwave’s exterior. Insist on door seals, where grime collects, causing unpleasant odours.
Small appliance refresh
Toasters, blenders, coffee machines, and other small appliances also require cleaning. Wipe down their surfaces and remove food particles. Run a descaling solution in the coffee machine to keep it efficient.
- A study on London properties revealed that among respondents reporting mould issues, 36.71% named the kitchen an affected area.
- A 2023 survey by Water UK revealed that 27% of UK adults dispose of cooking fats down the sink, 22% down the drain, and 11% down the toilet. Such practices can cause 'fatbergs,' leading to blockages and environmental damage.
Making pristine surfaces, cabinets& fixtures
Cupboards & drawers
Cupboard tops
Use a damp cloth with a multi-surface cleaner to remove dust, grease, and grime from cupboard tops. For difficult grease, use a degreaser or a vinegar-water solution.
Hinges & handles
Dip a cloth in soapy water and remove all grime from the handles. If the dirt is difficult on hinges, scrub in between the joints with an old toothbrush without damaging the finish.
Drawer linings
Empty the drawers and use a damp cloth to wipe the interiors, where crumbs, stains, and debris collect. Use a gentle cleaning solution and a soft sponge if there are stains, and focus on corners where food particles will accumulate.
Overall cabinet care
Clean the cabinet interiors, especially where you store food or utensils. Wipe down down shelves and eliminate lingering crumbs and food residue. If the cabinets are wood, restore their shine with a furniture polish.
Worktops & backsplashes
Stain removal
Address coffee, wine stains and food spoils immediately to avoid permanent marks. For most surfaces, you can use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner. If the stains are difficult to remove, make a paste from water and baking soda. Apply it to the stains and let it sit before you wipe it away.
Granite & marble
Even though beautiful and durable, these natural stones are sensitive to acidic cleaners. Use a pH-balanced stone cleaner or a water mix and mild dish soap. Don’t use vinegar, lemon, or harsh chemicals; they may etch the surface. To prevent stains and damage, regularly seal granite or marble surfaces.
Laminate & wood
Abrasive cleaners can scratch laminate worktops, so use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth to clean them. A wood-friendly cleaner or a mild soap solution is safe for wood surfaces; preserve the finish with a conditioner or oil. Always use a soft cloth for wiping so you don’t scratch the surface.
Tiles & grout
Clean both the tiles and grout with a tile cleaner and a sponge for the tiles. Use a brush to scrub the grout lines and a baking soda and water paste to remove difficult grout stains. Minimise the risk of staining and mildew buildup by sealing grout lines.
Stainless steel
Use a specialist stainless steel cleaner on stainless steel surfaces. It will restore shine and eliminate fingerprints. Avoid streaks by wiping with the grain of the steel.
- To avoid watermarks and streaks, dry the worktops and backsplashes after cleaning, especially if the surfaces are marble or granite.
Sink & tap
Limescale removal
Use a descaling solution or vinegar to dissolve limescale buildup that makes taps and sinks look dull. Apply the solution to the affected areas and allow it to work for several minutes before scrubbing with a cloth or soft brush. If the buildup is difficult, soak a cloth in vinegar, wrap it around the faucet or sink and let it sit for half an hour before wiping it away.
Drain cleaning
Pour a baking soda and vinegar mixture down the drain and pour hot water. It will break down grease, food particles, and minor blockages. To clear larger clogs, use a plunger or a drain snake.
Polishing & shine
Stainless steel sinks and taps lose their shine over time, and you can use a specialist steel cleaner after cleaning them. Alternatively, you may use a mixture of water and mild dish soap. Use a soft cloth to apply the cleaner and buff in the direction of the metal grain. Rub with a microfiber cloth for extra shine and removal of streaks and fingerprints.
Sealing & protection
Apply a water-repellent coating to the sink and taps after cleaning and polishing. This way, you prevent limescale buildup and ease up cleaning. You also prevent food residue and water spots from staining the surfaces.
- Dry the sink and taps after every use to avoid limescale buildup, especially if you have hard water.
Floors & skirting
Grout cleaning
Use a grout cleaner, baking soda, and water mixture to make a paste. Apply it to the grout, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub. Use a steam cleaner for difficult stains and rinse with warm water after scrubbing to eliminate residue and restore the grout’s original appearance.
Corner cleaning
Use a small vacuum or crevice tool to remove dust, dirt, and food debris from corners and edges. Apply a gentle cleaning solution on food build-up or sticky spots and scrub it with a cloth or soft brush. Clean also the area behind appliances and under cabinets.
Stain lifting
Grease, food, and drink spills stain kitchen floors, especially those made of vinyl, tile, and wood. If the floors are tile or vinyl, use a floor-specific cleaner; don’t scratch the surface and use a microfiber cloth to lift the stains. Use a wood-friendly cleaner for wooden floors. A steam cleaner or spot treatment may be used if the stains are complex.
Skirting boards
Use a damp cloth, a gentle cleaning solution to wipe down skirting boards, and a magic eraser for marks.
Proven tools, perfect techniques!
Professional equipment vs. DIY
Steam cleaners
- Professional-grade: high pressure, high-temperature steam goes deep into surfaces, breaking down grease and grime. They’re perfect for ovens, fans, and grout.
- DIY—home steamers are less powerful and less effective and are efficient only for light cleaning, not heavy-duty tasks in end-of-tenancy cleaning.
Degreasers
- Professional—are formulated to remove difficult grease and oil stains and are ideal for hobs, ovens, and fans.
- DIY—home degreases work on light grime, not stubborn build-ups.
Detailing tools
- Professional—microfiber cloths, power brushes, and scrapers are helpful when cleaning difficult-to-reach areas like oven racks and vents. They are safe on delicate surfaces as well.
- DIY—even though essential scrub brushes and cloths work, you need time and elbow grease for good results. When cheap, they may damage the surfaces.
Product power
Eco-friendly solutions
These are UK-approves, natural products that break down stains, grease, and odours without harsh chemicals. They are safe for all surfaces and preferred by sustainability-conscious customers.
Heavy-duty cleaners
The professional-grade solutions address difficult kitchen grime, grease, and food residue.
Efficiency
Eco solutions are gentle on surfaces and environment, and the heavy-duty cleaners ensure impressive results on the most challenging kitchen tasks. To ensure your deposit refund, you must choose adequate cleaning products.
Safety &results
- Surface protection--Professional cleaning products are efficient and don’t damage delicate surfaces like wood, granite, or stainless steel
- Residue-free finish—good quality cleaning products don’t leave chemical residues and reduce the risk of dirt build-up, maintaining a fresh look for surfaces.
- Prevent damage—using adequate techniques and products means cleaning worktops, appliances, and tiles without causing scratches or discolouration.
- Non-toxic options--the non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaners are safe for tenants and landlords and ensure excellent results without affecting your health.
- Durable cleaning results—with professional-grade products, you achieve a deep, residue-free clean that lasts and boosts your chances of a full deposit refund.
- Deep cleaning of hidden areas such as grout, drawer linings and cupboard tops reduces the risk of deposit deductions.
- Professional-grade tools and solutions work better than DIY alternatives for end-of-tenancy cleaning.
Why pros make a difference
Pros work faster and better.
- Professional cleaners have a systematic approach and work quickly, completing cleaning tasks in a fraction of the time that DIY cleaning does.
- The pros have the expertise to address difficult stains and dirt that DIY methods often miss
- The cleaners use commercial-grade tools and the market’s best products
- The pros don’t skip any area and clean all nooks and crannies of a place.
- Thanks to their skills and vast expertise, professionals always deliver high-quality cleaning results, meeting landlords’ standards
- They save time and ensure a stress-free handover
Safety & Insurance
- Professional cleaners know how to handle powerful cleaning agents and don’t harm surfaces
- They choose the adequate products for various materials and clean without damaging floors, countertops, and appliances
- Professional cleaners have insurance and cover accidents or property damage
- The pros use proper PPE (personal protective equipment) for safety when handling chemicals, protecting themselves and those around them
- Since they follow strict guidelines, the pros lower the risk of surface wear, staining, or damage
Deposit documentation
- Professional cleaning companies provide with detailed receipts to prove their work
- You can ask for before and after photos of the kitchen to reveal the condition of surfaces and appliances
- The service providers can offer a cleaning certificate that confirms the job meets professional standards
You can use documentation as evidence in case of deposit disputes.
How should you prepare for a kitchen deep clean?
Help professionals ease your DIY cleaning by preparing the kitchen.
Tenant to-dos beforehand
- Remove your personal belongings, trash, and excess clutter so that access is effortless
- Clear out food items and wipe down shelves so there are no lingering smells and stains
- See if there is damage (stains, cracks, chips) and document it to avoid charging for issues that you didn’t cause
- Wipe down surfaces if possible, especially on counters and sink, to lower cleaning time
- Make sure there’s easy access to appliances and cabinets
Some scheduling tips
- Book the cleaning services at least 2-3 days before your move-out date to have time for fixes or unpredicted delays
- If methods like steam cleaning will be used, make sure carpets will have time to dry before the final inspection
- Coordinate your moving day to avoid disrupting the cleaning
- Choose a cleaning date that gives your landlord time to examine the place after cleaning.
Keep the kitchen clean until handover
- Do some final touch-ups like dusting or spot-cleaning
- See if the fridge is empty, clean, and unplugged. Make sure all appliances are functional.
- Sweep, vacuum, or mop floors
- Remove all trash and remaining items
- Walk through each room and check any missed areas.
Leave no trace
An immaculate kitchen is fundamental for securing your full deposit return. Landlords scrutinise this area particularly closely, and many deposit disputes arise from grease, stains and dirt in the kitchen. Don't leave this task until the last minute; consider booking professional cleaners if concerned about achieving an impeccable standard. Why risk your deposit over a greasy oven?
Bonus: Smart Maintenance for Tenants
To keep your kitchen in great shape and avoid end-of-tenancy cleaning costs, establish these habits:
- Easy Weekly Habits:
- Wipe spills immediately to prevent stains.
- Empty bins regularly to avoid odours and mess.
- Clean as you go to reduce grease, crumbs, and residue.
- Monthly Tasks:
- Descale appliances like kettles and coffee makers.
- Degrease surfaces, including the oven, hood, and extractor fan.
- Disinfect countertops and sinks to kill bacteria.
- Products to Keep on Hand:
- Landlord-friendly, eco-friendly cleaners that are safe for pets and leave no residue.
- Pet-safe cleaners for a safe and clean home.
- Photo Logs & Clean Notes:
- Take before and after photos to protect yourself from deposit disputes and ensure you're not charged unfairly for damage or neglect.
RESOURCES
- https://www.totallandlordinsurance.co.uk/knowledge-centre/end-of-tenancy-cleaning-and-inventory-checklist
- https://www.alanboswell.com/resources/end-of-tenancy-cleaning/
- https://www.emop.co.uk/help/end-of-tenancy/
- https://www.rentokil-hygiene.co.uk/commercial-kitchen-cleaning/kitchen-deep-cleaning/
- https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/cost-guides/end-of-tenancy-cleaning-prices/