Whether you have hired a cleaning service before, or it’s your first time, you may have some questions in terms of what to expect and what to do before the cleaning service comes. You may have questions about house cleaner etiquette, policies, conduct and who they are in general. We are here to help you answer these questions and help you understand the process of hiring a cleaning service from start to finish.
Who is a housekeeper or cleaning professional?
A “cleaner”, “housekeeper”, or a “cleaning professional” is most commonly a trained individual who works at a cleaning company you hire for service. Sometimes you can find bargain housekeepers that operate as only an independent cleaner; but unless you have been referred to them by someone you know who has used their services, you might be taking a risk. Independent cleaners often lack the infrastructure, insurance coverage, and bandwidth to take good care of you in the unlikely event that something goes wrong.
Luckily there are often indicators to look for when evaluating a good cleaner- And it starts with their arrival. A good cleaning person will aspire to arrive on time, be ready for the job, and make efficient use of tools and supplies. A good cleaning person also works to be efficient, respectful of your family and belongings, and home etiquette. Shiny Sparkles trains our cleaners to provide Five Star Service every time.
What to do before a house cleaner comes
Should you clean before a house cleaner comes? technically, no. You are hiring someone to do that for you. However it is wise to declutter, consolidate laundry, and secure your personal belongings and decide on any instructions for special circumstances. That will help you get the most benefit from your cleaning appointment. In this article, you can find tips on how to prepare for the cleaning appointment.
Before using this list, check in with the cleaning service and find out if the cleaners are elected to do dishes and/or laundry (make sure to ask if there are extra fees involved). If the cleaning service does not do dishes, make sure to clean those. Certainly put food away and throw out the garbage into a trash bin. A good housecleaner will be cautious about throwing things into a garbage, because they may not know what things you want to keep and what you may consider garbage. Things that slow housekeepers down is not knowing what to do with paperwork and personal belongings if they are in the way of cleaning your premises.
Making Preparations for the housekeepers visit: a 10 point guide
Hiring a professional housekeeper can make maintaining a clean and organized home much easier. However, to ensure they can do their job efficiently, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some essential steps to take before their arrival.
- Consolidate Laundry
Even if laundry services aren’t part of the housekeeping deal you’re setting up, picking up clothes, towels, and sheets that might be in the way is always a smart move to make sure the place gets cleaned up nicely. - Prepare Your Bed and Bedding
Check with your cleaning service to see if bed-making and laundry are included. If they are, have fresh sheets ready so the housekeeper can make the bed according to your preferences. Providing clear instructions ensures a smooth process. - Declutter Common Areas
Clutter can slow down the cleaning process and may prevent some areas from being properly cleaned. Store loose items like shoes, clothes, and miscellaneous belongings in their designated places. This allows the housekeeper to focus on deep cleaning rather than tidying up personal items. - Clear Off Countertops and Surfaces
To maximize efficiency, remove unnecessary items from countertops, desks, and shelves. Items like food containers, personal belongings, and decorative clutter can get in the way of dusting and disinfecting. A clear surface allows for a more thorough clean. - Tidy Up Any Food or Dishes
If dishwashing isn’t part of your cleaning service, ensure dishes are cleaned and put away beforehand. Additionally, store leftovers properly in containers or dispose of them. Housekeepers may be unsure whether food should be kept or thrown away, leading to potential misunderstandings or missed areas during cleaning. - Secure Personal Belongings and Valuables
To prevent any concerns about misplaced items, store jewelry, important documents, and other valuables in a secure location. Keeping personal items out of the way also makes it easier for the cleaning staff to move through the space efficiently. - Make Arrangements for Pets
Pets can sometimes be an obstacle to effective cleaning. Whether it’s a dog tracking in dirt or a curious cat getting in the way, consider securing them in a separate room or a designated area during the cleaning session. This ensures both the safety of your pets and a more effective cleaning process. - Communicate Expectations Clearly
Effective communication helps avoid misunderstandings. If you have specific cleaning requests or preferences, inform the cleaning service in advance. Discuss any extra services, such as laundry or deep cleaning, to confirm what is included and whether there are additional charges. Written instructions, such as an email or note, can also help clarify expectations. - Plan for Home Security
If you won’t be home during the cleaning, decide whether to disarm your security system or provide temporary access to the cleaning staff. Reputable cleaning services prioritize confidentiality and security, so discuss your preferences with them in advance. - Minimize Disruptions
For the best results, consider leaving the home while it is being cleaned. If that’s not an option—such as when working from home—coordinate with the housekeepers to clean your workspace at a convenient time. Temporarily relocating to another room will allow them to work more efficiently.
By taking these steps, you ensure a smoother, more effective cleaning session while allowing your housekeeper to focus on delivering the best possible results. A little preparation goes a long way in maintaining a well-organized and stress-free home.
