Sometimes we get so busy that we struggle to keep on top of the simplest things. Whether you need someone weekly, are looking for that end of lease clean – or all things in between, hiring a cleaning service for the first time can be intimidating, especially if you’re not sure what you’re looking for.
Hiring someone to come in and clean your house is a strange and sometimes confusing experience. Are they wondering why you couldn’t do it yourself? Would they prefer you’re not home? How much cleaning do you need to do before they get there?
You are going to be allowing someone, quite possibly a stranger, into the most private areas of your home. These are areas that you likely shut off when you have even your closest friends over, so allowing someone to see behind those closed doors can feel like an invasion of privacy.
At the end of the day hiring a professional cleaner can be a life changing experience, imagine freeing up all that time!
Here are some questions to ask and helpful things to consider when searching for the right one.
How do they set their rates?
Many cleaners set hourly rates, but some will charge per project or by the number of people needed to do a job. Ask if there is a higher fee for the initial visit, and then a flat fee for subsequent visits.
End of Lease cleans are a whole other matter so ensure you specify exactly what the estate agent needs done.
Are they insured?
Improper use of cleaning products could damage your home and furnishing, so make sure your cleaning company has public liability and property damage insurance.
Do they bring their own equipment and supplies?
Some cleaners will bring everything; some will expect you to provide equipment like a vacuum and mop. If you have allergies, or a prefer environmentally friendly products, it's best to ask which cleaning products will be used.
What kind of cleaning do they offer?
Some cleaning may be general. This includes dusting and cleaning the kitchen, bathroom and floors – but not things like ovens, fridges, windows or cars (yes, people really request car cleans).
If you do want a specific job done, make sure you book the cleaner in for this beforehand, and understand they probably won’t have time to clean the rest of the house as well.
How much experience do they have?
A cleaner’s experience can play a big role in the quality of work done and how quickly they do it.
Do they perform a background check?
If you're hiring from a cleaning company, ask if they perform a background check on their employees. Otherwise, if you're hiring individuals, ask for references.
Make sure you know whether this is included up front or whether there is an additional cost.
What should you do with your pets while they clean?
Most cleaners would prefer you to place your pet outside, or in a secure area within the home, while they're cleaning. If your pet must stay inside, ask if your cleaner has any allergies to pets
If hiring through a company, will the same people be cleaning every time?
If you're using a service, this is vital — you'll get a more consistent clean if you use the same people.
In summary
There’s no feeling more satisfying than being in a fresh home you didn’t have to clean yourself. Clean homes and organised spaces are proven to reduce stress, improve happiness, and even improve your eating and exercise habits. Reducing clutter will also increase productivity at home, because everything is in it’s place. Now put your feet up and relax…