1. Assessing Your Requirements
“Tear down walls of ignorance and narrow-mindedness, for nothing has to stay as it is” — Angela Merkel
If you find it challenging to make time for cleaning your home due to a busy schedule, hiring a cleaning service can be a viable solution. While cleaning your house can take up a significant amount of time, investing in a professional cleaning service can help you save time and achieve a spotless home. There may be several cleaning services available in your vicinity, and choosing the right one requires considering your specific requirements and researching the reputation and expertise of different services.
Nicolas Dominguez
1.1 "Make a decision about what you would like to have cleaned."
When selecting a cleaning service, it’s important to determine which areas of your home you want to be cleaned. You may opt to have the service target tough spots like the kitchen and main bathroom, or you may prefer a top-to-bottom cleaning. Additionally, you should consider whether you require services beyond a standard cleaning, such as wiping down baseboards or washing windows.
While some cleaning services may not offer window cleaning, you can always hire a professional for this task. Depending on your needs, you may be able to choose from different cleaning packages. A standard cleaning typically includes dusting, wiping surfaces, vacuuming, and organizing, but deeper cleaning tasks like cleaning inside appliances or tackling nooks and crannies may require a special request.
For those who are moving in or out of a property, a move-in/move-out cleaning service can be tailored to address specific needs, similar to a deep cleaning.
1.2 "Can you provide an approximate duration for completing the task of cleaning your house?"
When hiring cleaning services, you’ll typically be asked about the size of your house, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms it has, and your typical cleaning routine. A house with one bedroom and one bathroom generally takes around two and a half hours to clean, while kitchens may require an additional 1-2 hours. However, if it has been a while since your last cleaning, these estimates may increase. Providing this information to the service can aid in determining what fits within your budget.
While some cleaning services may not offer window cleaning, you can always hire a professional for this task. Depending on your needs, you may be able to choose from different cleaning packages. A standard cleaning typically includes dusting, wiping surfaces, vacuuming, and organizing, but deeper cleaning tasks like cleaning inside appliances or tackling nooks and crannies may require a special request.
For those who are moving in or out of a property, a move-in/move-out cleaning service can be tailored to address specific needs, similar to a deep cleaning.
1.3 "Determine the frequency at which you would like your service to perform cleaning."
The frequency of cleaning services required by your family may vary. For instance, you may only need the service to come once or twice a month, while a busier schedule and larger budget might make more frequent visits desirable. Additionally, you could opt for an alternating weekly schedule where the cleaners clean different rooms every other time they visit.
While some cleaning services may not offer window cleaning, you can always hire a professional for this task. Depending on your needs, you may be able to choose from different cleaning packages. A standard cleaning typically includes dusting, wiping surfaces, vacuuming, and organizing, but deeper cleaning tasks like cleaning inside appliances or tackling nooks and crannies may require a special request.
For those who are moving in or out of a property, a move-in/move-out cleaning service can be tailored to address specific needs, similar to a deep cleaning.
1.4 "If you have a preference, it's recommended that you purchase your own cleaning supplies."
Due to their higher cost, natural cleaning solutions are typically not used by most cleaning services. If you prefer to avoid chemical cleaners in your home or have specific cleaners that you prefer, you will likely need to supply them yourself. It’s possible to request a lower fee from the service if you provide your own cleaners, so it’s worth asking if they’re open to discussing this option with you.
While some cleaning services may not offer window cleaning, you can always hire a professional for this task. Depending on your needs, you may be able to choose from different cleaning packages. A standard cleaning typically includes dusting, wiping surfaces, vacuuming, and organizing, but deeper cleaning tasks like cleaning inside appliances or tackling nooks and crannies may require a special request.
For those who are moving in or out of a property, a move-in/move-out cleaning service can be tailored to address specific needs, similar to a deep cleaning.
1.5 "Decide on your budget."
Before contacting any cleaning services, it is important to assess your finances first. Take the time to determine the exact amount you are willing and able to pay for their services. By doing so, you will be able to decline offers from companies that exceed your budget while also making informed decisions about which services are within your means.
While some cleaning services may not offer window cleaning, you can always hire a professional for this task. Depending on your needs, you may be able to choose from different cleaning packages. A standard cleaning typically includes dusting, wiping surfaces, vacuuming, and organizing, but deeper cleaning tasks like cleaning inside appliances or tackling nooks and crannies may require a special request.
For those who are moving in or out of a property, a move-in/move-out cleaning service can be tailored to address specific needs, similar to a deep cleaning.
2. Picking a Service
2.1 "Choose a cleaning service for better legal protection."
If you opt to hire a cleaning company over an individual, the company assumes responsibility for conducting background checks on their employees, offering worker’s compensation, and handling insurance concerns. This is an ideal choice for families who lack the time and legal expertise to shield themselves from any disputes with individual employees.[5]
It’s advisable to inquire whether potential cleaning services have conducted background checks on their employees. Reliable companies will undoubtedly have performed such checks on all new employees.
While cleaning companies may charge more than individuals, the additional cost is usually worth the legal reassurance they provide.
2.2 "Select a company that has both bonding and insurance."
Trustworthy cleaning services typically provide coverage for damage to your home that occurs during the cleaning process, as well as for lost or broken items. This policy can provide peace of mind for both you and the company while the cleaners are working in your home. However, it is wise to inform the cleaners about any delicate items that require special care.
In the event that the cleaner is insured and accidentally damages an item in your home, the insurance will typically cover the cost of the damage.
2.3 "Consider asking your family and friends for recommendations."
Those who are in your inner circle will have an understanding of your requirements and be willing to offer truthful recommendations based on their prior encounters with different cleaning services. It is essential to inform them that you intend to hire a trustworthy service with an insurance policy, as this could influence their suggestions.
2.4 "If available, it is advisable to read online reviews."
When considering a cleaning service, it’s likely that you’ll find many reviews online, particularly if the company has been established for a while and is quite large. To get a good sense of the quality of service, it’s recommended to read a variety of reviews. While some companies may have a few negative reviews from an unhappy customer, they may still have many five-star ratings.
Reviewing customer feedback and testimonials can be helpful in understanding the level of service a company provides. It’s important to consider factors such as punctuality, and whether the company communicates effectively with its clients.
To streamline the selection process, you may want to consider using agencies such as Amazon Home Cleaning Services, Handy, and Task Rabbit. These platforms have already performed background checks and verified that the cleaning providers have insurance and offer quality services. Additionally, comparing reviews and testimonials on sites such as Google and Yelp can help you choose the best local cleaning service for your needs.
2.5 "Ask the service for references if there aren’t online reviews."
Companies that are new to your area or smaller in size may not have established an online presence. In such cases, you could request a list of references from these companies. When contacting these references, it’s important to inquire about the type of cleaning services that the company provided and whether the client is still utilizing their services.
2.6 "Ask potential companies what they clean and charge."
Most companies provide a standard list of cleaning services they offer and specify the pricing structure for their services, such as a flat rate for each cleaning, an hourly fee, or a charge based on the number of rooms. It is important to clarify what is included in the company’s basic cleaning rate and what is not. It is also advisable to ask about any additional cleaning services that are not explicitly mentioned.
If the company charges an hourly fee, it may be beneficial to establish a cap on the number of hours the service is allowed to clean to prevent excessive costs. However, this may result in an incomplete cleaning, especially during the first visit.
2.7 "Ask about extra charges for add-ons."
To avoid any unexpected charges, it’s important to ask the cleaning company if they offer any services that are not included in their standard list of cleaning tasks. You should also inquire about the cost of any additional services. If you have specific cleaning requirements that are not mentioned in the standard list, be sure to ask how much it would cost to add them to the overall fee. Requesting a detailed checklist of the cleaning tasks included will help you avoid any surprises when the cleaner arrives.
2.8 "Inquire about the cleaning solutions utilized by the company for different types of surfaces."
If you have pets or children and are concerned about reducing their exposure to certain chemicals, it’s important to know which cleaning solutions the service is using in your home. It’s also important to ask the company if they have appropriate solutions for any special countertops or sensitive surfaces in your home.
2.9 "Ask for a trial cleaning of your home"
Consider proposing a trial session to the company to test the viability of the relationship. It’s possible they might offer a satisfaction guarantee that eliminates the fee if you’re not satisfied with the quality of cleaning provided. After completing the trial, you’ll likely feel more confident in investing in the cleaning service.
3. Collaborating with Your Cleaning Staff
3.1 "Create a written agreement."
To prevent future confusion or disputes regarding payment, it is advisable to document the company’s fees, the scope of cleaning services expected, any additional services, and the definition of damage caused by the cleaners. This agreement will serve as a helpful record for both parties.
3.2 "Try to adhere to the company's recommendations"
Certain companies may require you to stay indoors while your cleaning professionals are present, which serves as a safeguarding measure for the company in case any belongings are misplaced. However, some companies do not have a particular preference, giving you the option to utilize your time elsewhere.
If you choose to stay at home while the cleaners are working, it is advisable to avoid getting in their way. Micromanaging their every movement may cause them to feel stressed or agitated. It is important to acknowledge that they are skilled and experienced professionals who are carrying out the job you have hired them for.
3.3 "Discuss pet policies."
Certain companies might require you to either remove your pet from the premises or restrict them to a designated location. Alternatively, they may ask you to acquaint the cleaners with your pet to establish familiarity before leaving them alone with your animals. If your pet tends to be wary of unfamiliar individuals, it might be beneficial to remain in the house with them during the initial visits from the cleaner.
3.4 "Make sure that your home is accessible to your cleaner."
In case you won’t be present at home during the cleaner’s scheduled visit, you might have to furnish them with a key, code, or garage door opener to gain access to your residence. To ensure that these items are safely handed over to the cleaners without the risk of being duplicated or shared, you can incorporate a clause in your written agreement with the cleaning company.
3.5 "Perform a preliminary inspection with your cleaner."
During this meeting, you will have the opportunity to acquaint the cleaner with your living space. It is recommended that you highlight any broken appliances or damages in your home that they should avoid. Additionally, this is an excellent time to point out any areas that require special attention or extra cleaning.
For instance, you can direct them to the children’s rooms, which tend to get particularly messy. If you have a china cabinet filled with delicate items that you prefer to dust on your own, make sure to inform the cleaner about it.
3.6 "Assess expectations"
To ensure everyone is on the same page, it’s important to communicate your expectations to the cleaner sent by the service. This is particularly crucial if you have a specialized agreement with the company, as it can prevent frustration from uncleaned areas or unexpected charges for areas you intended to clean yourself. In addition, it’s recommended to establish arrival times with the cleaner, specifying whether they will arrive at a specific time or within a designated window.
3.7 "Tidy up your house, Yes .. .really !"
Prior to the arrival of cleaners, it’s advisable to tackle any general clutter by yourself. Although cleaners are responsible for tidying up clothes scattered on the floor and returning toys to their designated locations, performing such tasks will consume their time and energy. Consequently, your home may not receive the thorough cleaning it requires. Therefore, it’s crucial to handle your own clutter, especially if you’re being charged an hourly fee.
3.8 "After the initial visits, offer polite feedback"
After your cleaner visits a few times, you might have some inquiries or recommendations. It’s important to communicate any specific areas in your home that require a slightly different cleaning approach. It’s crucial to treat your cleaner with respect and kindness, as they are a professional.
In case you are not satisfied with the service, contact the cleaning company directly. You can provide a detailed explanation of why the service is not meeting your expectations. This will likely result in a clearer agreement with the company, which is more convenient than finding a new service.
3.9 "Tip 10-20% to show your satisfaction with the cleaner.
Like many other service-based industries, cleaners rely on tips as a significant portion of their income. You may want to review your company’s policies, as some may incorporate tips into their overall fees and distribute them individually in paychecks. If this is not the case, it is customary to show your gratitude for their services by tipping the cleaner directly. It is worth noting that tipping is not mandatory or obligatory, but it is a kind gesture to demonstrate your satisfaction with the cleaning job performed.
