Life’s demands can be hectic, leaving little time for the thorough upkeep your home deserves. The decision to hire professional maid services in Jericho can be a significant step towards a tidier, more manageable home, offering much-needed peace of mind. However, understanding what to expect from a house cleaning service is crucial for a smooth and satisfying experience. Read on to find out more.
What are the duties of a professional cleaner?
It’s important to differentiate between a house cleaner and a housekeeper. A house cleaner typically focuses on tasks like scrubbing surfaces, mopping floors, and dusting. They are often hired for one-time deep sessions or regular upkeep of specified areas. A housekeeper, on the other hand, provides broader ongoing maintenance, which can include tasks like laundry, decluttering, putting away toys, or even caring for pets, though these are generally negotiated for extra compensation.
What a professional house cleaner typically does
When a company or individual comes for their initial visit, especially for a first-time appointment, they often spend more time to meet your expectations. They focus on high-traffic areas, kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, and bedrooms. Common tasks included in routine maintenance are:
- Dusting furniture, shelves, and light fixtures.
- Vacuuming and mopping all floors.
- Surface disinfection of counters, appliances (exteriors), sinks, and cabinet faces.
- Bathroom sanitizing, including toilets, sinks, tubs, and showers.
- Taking out trash.
- Changing sheets and making beds if requested.
What not to expect (or requires extra discussion)
To ensure an efficient process, there are tasks pros typically won’t perform or will charge extra for:
- Decluttering and tidying: While they can wipe around small items, they are not there to organize or put away piles of belongings. It’s best to tidy your home beforehand so they can focus on actual cleaning.
- Hazardous waste: They will not handle human or pet waste, dirty diapers, or medical equipment.
- Heavy lifting: Moving heavy furniture is generally outside their scope.
- Specialized service: Tasks like deep cleaning the inside of ovens or refrigerators, or extensive window washing (especially exterior or requiring ladders), often cost extra or are not offered.
- Laundry or dishes: Unless specifically agreed upon, these are not standard services.
Preparing for your service
Experts work more effectively if you do some preparation. It’s helpful to clear hallways, entryways, and exit paths of clutter. If you have a specific checklist or preferences for products, have them ready. Also, arrange for children and pets to be out of the way.
Key questions to ask when hiring
Finding someone you trust to come into your home can be confusing. When hiring, consider these questions during your interview:
- Referrals and reviews: Ask friends and family, and check online reviews.
- Services offered: Clarify what they do and don’t do.
- Pricing and frequency: Discuss whether they charge by the job or hourly, and how often you need service (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly). Prices vary greatly by scope of work.
- Insurance and bonding: Crucially, ensure they are insured to protect you against damages or accidents.
- Supplies: Ask if they provide their own supplies or if you need to.
- Team vs. individual: Inquire if they work alone or as a team, and if it will be the same people each time.
- Written agreement: A written agreement is essential for clear expectations.
- Background checks and references: Reputable professionals should provide references.
- Trust your gut: If something feels “sketchy” or “off,” it’s wise to move on.
Looking for trusted maid services in Jericho?
Need to keep your home clean on a tight schedule? Look no further than Maid Brigade of Long Island. Our expert team is here to help you keep your space neat and hygienic, so you can relax and take care of other things that matter. No matter if you’re in Jericho or across the Town of Oyster Bay, you can count on our professionals to take excellent care of your home.