Photo: gawriloff / iStock / Getty Images
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Do you spend hours cleaning before the house cleaners come? Paying someone to come clean your house is a luxury that can save you time and energy, but some people who do feel the need to get things ready before the crew arrives. While some of their efforts may be appreciated, it’s not all necessary and professional cleaners are sharing which tasks make a difference.
These are the things pros find helpful for clients to do in advance and what they can skip.
- Clear off counters and other surfaces - Tidying and decluttering before the cleaners arrive is good because it lets them focus on getting your home spick and span. If they have to spend half an hour moving all the products from your bathroom counter first, that’s less time they’re actually cleaning, disinfecting and scrubbing.
- Pick stuff up off the floor - Move packages, clothes and toys from the floor so the cleaners can properly vacuum and mop. Nobody wants to have to touch your dirty underwear before they can get the floor clean.
- Do the dishes - This chore takes a long time and some cleaning services even charge extra if you want them to do the dishes for you.
- Remove health and safety hazards - Your cleaner shouldn’t have to deal with any biohazards or bodily fluids, so you should get rid of any blood, urine, and pet feces before they come.
- Secure your pets - Make sure your cleaner knows if you have pets at home and unless you make special arrangements with them, it’s best to keep cats and dogs in a comfortable area, like a crate or playpen, a spare room that doesn't need to be cleaned or outside.
- Communicate your preferences and priorities - Your house cleaner may be amazing, but they can’t read your mind, so if there’s something you want them to focus on, please make them aware. They’re happy to do what matters most to you, you just have to tell them.
- Secure sentimental items and valuables - Move those things to a safe location that’s out of their way to make sure they’re not damaged or misplaced.
- What you don’t need to do? Pre-clean the house - Some clients actually clean before someone comes to clean, but pros say that’s not necessary. Don’t be embarrassed if your house is messy, that’s why you hired them. They’ve seen it all before and insist they’re not judging anyone!
Source: Huff Post