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Every service industry has a list of do’s and don’ts to make sure both the customer and the provider can benefit from the relationship. The goal of these rules is to create a happy–and repeatable–experience. The house cleaning industry is no different. Following a few basic guidelines will ensure you know what to expect and how to make the most of it.
1. Cleaning for the cleaner
One of the most commonly asked questions we get at The Maids is:
“What do I need to do to get my home ready to be cleaned?”
While it may seem counterintuitive to clean up before housecleaners arrive, it’s one of the best ways to ensure our team can focus their efforts where they matter most–scrubbing, dusting, vacuuming, and polishing. The more access that your house cleaner has to countertops, tables, floors, and the like, the more time they can dedicate to getting them clean.
The most efficient way to prepare for a housecleaning is to gather up mail, clutter, toys, clothing, and shoes. Remove valuables, cash, and jewelry for safekeeping. This is not offensive and is as much for the sake of the cleaners, who typically appreciate the reduced risk, as it is for your protection.
2. Communicate clearly.
Communication is key in any relationship. Openly discuss your expectations with your housecleaning service beforehand to avoid any issues. Ask what services they include, and which ones they do not, in their fee. Be honest about the condition of your home and which rooms are most important to you. Clarification here will go a long way to make sure you are getting the level of clean you want in the amount of time your cleaning team has.
Take the time to let the house cleaning company know about anything specific to your home or family. Allergies, pets, and whether or not you will be home at the time of cleaning should all be discussed before a visit.
The benefit of working with a nationally recognized, reputable cleaning company is the ability to set expectations, discuss issues, and get guaranteed results if you are ever unsatisfied. If an issue does arise, feel free to address it head-on. There is absolutely nothing wrong with respectful discourse regarding a service you pay for. The Maids understands that miscommunication can happen, especially early on in the relationship, and we take pride in remedying the situation so you can enjoy your home as soon as possible.
3. Tipping
The first thing to remember about tipping in almost any situation is that it is entirely up to you. Most larger cleaning service companies, like The Maids, will tell you that it is neither required nor expected. If you decide to hire an individual who works for themselves, it is often customary to tip 10 to 20% on top of the price of the clean, assuming that you are pleased with the quality of work.
Regardless of whether you use a large service or a sole provider, if the same person or team cleans your home for an extended period, you could consider a bonus or gift as a thank you. Again, this is highly discretionary.
